Mission-ready is always a nice thing to hear, though when trouble hits, most of us are anything but that. A regimen of proper and frequent training will help fix that, as will having the proper mindset and—of course—the right equipment. When it comes to AR-platform rifles for patrol officers, it is hard to find equipment that is more “right” than that offered by Bravo Company Manufacturing (BCM).

Many fans of the AR are already familiar with BCM for its top-of-the-line AR parts and accessories. The company counts among its customers U.S. Special Operations Command (SOCOM) and every branch of the U.S. military, as well as such federal agencies as the Department of Homeland Security and U.S. Border Patrol. But BCM also manufactures outstanding complete ARs, including the new MID-16 Mod 3 carbine.

This semi-automatic, direct-gas-impingement-system carbine is chambered in 5.56mm NATO and features a mid-length gas system. The mid-length tube is 2 inches longer than those typically found on standard carbines, and it moves the gas hole closer to the muzzle, providing less dwell time—the amount of time the bullet spends in the barrel after it passes the gas tube and before it exits the barrel. This shorter dwell time reduces the amount of gas and fouling that enters the chamber in the process of operating the bolt, helping reduce wear and tear on internal parts as well as perceived recoil.

With any rifle, the most important component is the barrel, and here the BCM MID-16 does not scrimp on quality. The barrel is entirely mil-spec, made with certified 11595E steel and featuring a proper mil-spec profile and a chrome-lined bore and chamber. The rifle is also properly chambered in true 5.56mm NATO dimensions. (It should be noted that the .223 Remington and the 5.56mm NATO rounds are not identical, as the former actually has slightly smaller dimensions. The 5.56mm NATO chamber, being larger, can easily accommodate .223 Remington ammunition.)

For more information, visit bravocompanyusa.com or call 877-272-8626.