The Colt M5 SCW SBR is the 10.3-inch Sub-Compact Weapon configuration of Colt’s M5 Carbine in 5.56 NATO, here with the standard stock (Colt part no. CM556-10H-M5S-SCW). Colt redesigned the M5’s upper and lower receivers with fully ambidextrous controls and a true free-float barrel system, and the SCW takes that platform down to its most compact form. The 7-sided Magpul M-LOK handguard carries an uninterrupted MIL-STD-1913 top rail for optics and lights, with a keyed anti-rotation tab at the receiver. A Radian Raptor ambidextrous charging handle and a chrome-lined, 1:7 Cr-Mo-V barrel come standard. It suits a buyer who wants the shortest M5 Colt builds for vehicle, home defense or suppressor work.

Key Specifications

• The chambering is 5.56 NATO, the M4 and M5 family cartridge.
• Barrel length is 10.3 inches, the shortest M5 barrel Colt builds.
• The barrel is chrome-lined Cr-Mo-V steel with a 1:7 twist, HP and MPI tested by Colt.
• Magazine capacity is 30 rounds, the standard AR-15 load.
• Controls are fully ambidextrous, covering the selector, magazine catch and bolt catch and release.
• The barrel is true free floating, isolated by the upper receiver design for repeatable accuracy.
• The handguard is a 7-sided Magpul M-LOK design with an uninterrupted MIL-STD-1913 top rail.
• The charging handle is a Radian Raptor ambidextrous unit, quick to work from either side.
• The lower receiver is forged 7075-T6 aluminum for a high strength-to-weight ratio.
• The finish is black, the standard Colt duty look.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need ATF approval to buy this? No. As of October 9, 2026, ATF no longer requires Form 4 approval, registration or a tax stamp for short-barreled rifles. It transfers on a Form 4473 with a background check through a Class 3 (SOT) dealer. State and local laws still apply. Taking an SBR across state lines still requires an approved ATF Form 5320.20.

Is there a folding-stock version? Yes. Colt also builds the M5 SCW with a folding stock as a separate model.

What does SCW stand for? Sub-Compact Weapon, Colt’s name for the most compact 10.3-inch M5 configuration.

Buy the Colt M5 SCW SBR, 10.3-Inch

As of October 9, 2026, this short-barreled rifle transfers on a Form 4473 with a background check at your Class 3 (SOT) dealer, with no Form 4 or tax stamp; state and local laws still apply. Order through Colt‘s short-barreled rifles lineup and our Lubbock, Texas team will handle the transfer.