If you look closely you will notice the muzzle looks like the open three pronged model. They did not round it off until later and do away with the three pronged end of the muzzle.
M16, not the A1 version quite yet, right? Also, that model didn’t have the forward assist on it yet either, correct?
Like the M14 better... my personal favorite. Heavy, yes, but wood and metal are just wonderful together. Also love the M1 Garand; first rifle I ever learned how to shoot.
However... that being said... I saw a beautiful wood furniture set for the AR15, and it just transforms that firearm into something sweet...