The IWI Carmel is a unique non-AR rifle that merits thoughtful consideration.
Have you ever found yourself wanting to like something so badly but getting stuck on particular aspects? That’s the dilemma I faced after spending time with the IWI Carmel.
First and foremost, functionally, the Carmel operates smoothly and flawlessly. However, from a functional standpoint, there are areas that could have been executed better. Some nuances may not bother everyone, and whether they are deal-breakers is subjective.
Nevertheless, the good news is that most aspects you may dislike can be customized to your liking.
Key Features
IWI Carmel SPECIFICATIONS:
- Type: Semi-auto carbine
- Caliber: 5.56 NATO
- Capacity: 30+1 Rounds (Uses standard AR-15 magazines)
- Barrel: 16 Inches
- Length: 26¾ Inches w/ stock folded, 33¾ Inches w/ stock collapsed, 37¼ Inches w/ stock extended
- Width: 2.6 Inches
- Height: 8.2 Inches
- Weight: 8 Pounds, 3 Ounces
- Trigger: 4 Pounds, 9 Ounces
- Sights: n/a
- Grips: n/a
- Finish: Black oxide, anodizing, and polymer
- MSRP: $1,799
- Website: iwi.us
Advantages
- Distinct from the common AR-15 platform
- Compatible with standard AR-15/STANAG magazines
- Ambidextrous safety/selector, bolt latch, and magazine release
- Two-stage trigger design with smooth take-up and break
Disadvantages
- Rapid heat transfer to the handguard
- Chunky receiver and handguard design
- Limited grip options on the forend
- Relatively heavy build
The Winning Elements
What stands out about the IWI Carmel? It’s a departure from the AR-15, which is a refreshing change. It utilizes standard AR-15/STANAG magazines, making it versatile. The rifle features a piston system with a three-position gas regulator, cold hammer-forged barrel, 1:7 twist, and chrome-lined chamber and bore. Additionally, it incorporates a compensator.
The receiver contains polymer components, and the M-Lok slots on the handguard provide flexibility for mounting accessories. The controls are conveniently placed and ambidextrous, catering to left-handed shooters. Notably, the charging handle allows operation with the left hand without leaving the pistol grip.
Furthermore, a significant feature includes the ability to shift the charging handle between sides, accommodating various preferences.
The B5 Systems pistol grip may not suit all tastes, but its compatibility with AR-15 grips allows for customization according to personal preference.
The folding stock with an adjustable cheekpiece enhances comfort and adaptability, allowing precise alignment with aiming systems. Sling attachment options are abundant, from M-Lok slots to QD sockets and HK-style loops.
In testing, the Carmel excelled in performance. The trigger is precise and the rifle proved to be highly accurate, attributed to its quality barrel and the ease of customization and maintenance.
| BRAND AND BULLET | WEIGHT | VELOCITY (FPS | ENERGY (FT-LB) | GROUP SIZE (INCHES) SMALLEST | GROUP SIZE (INCHES) LARGEST | GROUP SIZE (INCHES) AVERAGE |
| Fiocchi FMJ | 55 grains | 2,759 | 929 | 1.2 | 1.7 | 1.5 |
| Hornady Full Boar | 50 grains | 2,929 | 1,047 | 1.1 | 1.4 | 1.3 |
| SIG OTM | 77 grains | 2,337 | 934 | 1 | 1.3 | 1.2 |
| Black Hills OTM | 77 grains | 2,622 | 1,175 | 0.9 | 1.3 | 1.1 |
Key Considerations
Despite its commendable features, why is it challenging to fully embrace the Carmel?
Firstly, the combination of polymer and aluminum components leads to rapid heat transfer to the handguard, making it uncomfortable to hold after extended shooting sessions.
Additionally, the bulky design of the receiver and handguard tends to feel cumbersome, deviating from the streamlined nature of modern AR-15s.
For instance, the boxy handguard restricts gripping options compared to slimmer AR-15 handguards, affecting ergonomic comfort and handling.
