laststandonzombieisland

So I saw this DW piece on how the “ELN plays key role in Colombia’s cocaine economy,” and the cover thumbnail image caught my eye.

Without the titles, you get a better look at the very interesting gatt, complete with Israeli Thermold magazine and paracord sling with brass swivel snaps.

This is not a frankengun; this thing left the factory like this.

Meet the Olympic Arms K23B “Stubby” carbine:

Only manufactured between 2007 and 2020, it was a Mil/LE-only factory SBR offered by Washington-based Olympic Arms. Chambered in 5.56 NATO, it ran a 6.5-inch chrome moly steel button rifled barrel with A2 flash suppressor, forged A2 upper with fully adjustable rear sight, an A2 style post front sight, had no bayonet lug, and used a distinctive free-folding aluminum tube handguard with knurling.

It ran a carbon recoil buffer in the back of the frame and, just 22.5 inches overall, weighed 5.12 pounds. It was offered in two variants, with (K23P-FT) or without (K23P) a flat-top receiver.

It caught some LE/Mil contacts, including at least some (apparently) in Colombia and in Taiwan as seen in this image:

Its last MSRP was $876, although they typically only run $550ish today, plus stamps.

It is, however, sought after by Stargate superfans as it is the basis for the “Carter Special.”

Since you came this far, enjoy this deep dive into fake Colts interdicted in Colombia, which were destined for FARC Guerrillas.