Colt has introduced two new rifles designed specifically for 3-Gun competition. Let me just say, they look cool!

The real difference between the two is the cost. The top rifle MSRP’s for $1900, the bottom is $1400.

The top rifle (the Expert I) is totally optimized to be the perfect 3-Gun rifle, with the absolute best components. Starting from the front, a Surefire comp, that also serves as a QD suppressor mount. Colt 18” Match grade barrel with really neat Ball Endmill flutes (the most important part of the rifle, because of the CDI factor). Samson Evolution rifle-length free-float handguard. Very well-fitted upper/lower receivers, a Geisselle Super 3-Gun trigger, and a Magpul MIAD grip/CTR stock.

The bottom rifle (Expert II) is built using less expensive (but still excellent quality) components. The comp is a Miculek-style, just as effective as the Surefire. The barrel is still a Match Grade 18” barrel, but not fluted. The forearm is a Hogue free-floating aluminum tube, carbine-length (which means you won’t be able to get your arm out as far on the rifle). It uses the same receivers and Geiselle trigger. Hogue rubberized grip and Magpul MOE stock.

Another noteworthy feature of the new pony rifle is the gas block. It is a 24-position adjustable model, so you can limit the amount of gas flow to just what’s needed to work the bolt. To my knowledge, this is the only factory rifle (short of a JP) that has an adjustable gas block.

Front end of the Expert I. Note the gas adjustment know peeking out from under the handguard. Also note the barrel flutes, which increases accuracy by 0% but coolness by 200%.

Group shot with the new rifle. Colt guarantees sub-MOA groups, and includes a test group shot with YOUR rifle off the bench in each case. This group was shot with rack-grade 55 grain bullets. The 1-8” twist barrel stabilizes everything from 55 to 75 grain bullets.