M4A1 Lower Marking Receiver
DEPT OF DEFENSE.DEPT OF THE ARMY.AMC.ACC.ACC-CTRS.ACC-DTA.W6QK ACC- DTA · Response deadline: Fri, 09 Oct 2026
What the government is buying
The Army is soliciting small businesses for manufacturing services related to the M4A1 Lower Marking Receiver. This is a firearms component solicitation under the broader category of small arms manufacturing. NAICS 332994 covers "small arms, ordnance, and ordnance accessories manufacturing," which includes parts, components, and finishing services for military firearms.
The "lower marking receiver" refers to a part of the M4A1 carbine's lower receiver assembly where identifying markings (such as serial numbers, manufacturer data, and military designations) are applied. This work likely involves precision machining, engraving, marking, or laser etching on aluminum or polymer receiver components, plus any required finishing treatments. The ACC-DTA (Army Contracting Command – Detroit Arsenal) is handling this procurement, which typically indicates ground vehicle and weapons systems support work out of the Detroit Arsenal in Michigan.
Key facts
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Agency | DEPT OF DEFENSE · DEPT OF THE ARMY · AMC · ACC · ACC-CTRS · ACC-DTA · W6QK ACC-DTA |
| Notice type | Solicitation |
| Solicitation number | W912CH26QA041 |
| NAICS | 332994 (Small Arms, Ordnance, and Ordnance Accessories Manufacturing) |
| Set-aside | Small Business Set Aside – Total |
| Response deadline | October 9, 2026, 5:00 PM ET |
| Place of performance | Not provided in notice; see the solicitation |
Who can bid
This opportunity is 100% set aside for small business concerns under SBA size standards for NAICS 332994. The typically applicable size standard for this NAICS is 1,000 employees, though bidders should verify the exact threshold in the full solicitation.
Eligible bidders must:
- Qualify as a small business under SBA size standards at the time of offer and award
- Possess or be able to obtain the security clearances and facility requirements customary for military firearms parts manufacturing (see the solicitation)
- Maintain ITAR registration with the Department of State, as firearms components are defense articles under International Traffic in Arms Regulations
- Demonstrate capacity for precision manufacturing to military specifications (likely MIL-STD or MIL-SPEC requirements for the M4A1 platform)
Contractors in the custom compounding or firearm parts sector with CNC machining, laser marking, engraving, or firearms finishing capabilities should evaluate fit. The total set-aside means no large business prime can participate, though small businesses may use large-business subcontractors within customary limitations.
How to put together a competitive bid
Understand the technical requirements precisely. M4A1 receiver marking demands exact placement, depth, and legibility per military specifications. Request the technical data package if not included with the solicitation to verify your marking and machining capabilities align.
Demonstrate firearms manufacturing credentials. Past performance on similar military small-arms components, ITAR compliance history, and relevant quality certifications (ISO 9001, AS9100, or military-specific QSLM/QSLD status) strengthen your proposal.
Address supply chain and material security. Aluminum or polymer sourcing for receivers may require specific alloy grades or traceability documentation. Detail your raw material controls and any DFARS specialty metal compliance.
Price strategically for small-lot precision work. Receiver marking is often low-quantity, high-precision work with significant setup costs. Ensure your pricing accounts for fixturing, first-article inspection, and any required destructive testing.
Confirm delivery and security logistics. If performance is at or near Detroit Arsenal or another Army facility, coordinate cleared personnel, secure transportation for firearms parts, and any required escort procedures.
Next steps
- Read the full solicitation W912CH26QA041 on SAM.gov immediately; the response deadline is October 9, 2026 at 5:00 PM Eastern Time—approximately one day after posting
- Download all attachments, technical specifications, and any applicable drawings or CDRLs (Contract Data Requirements Lists)
- Confirm SBA size standard applicability and any specific NAICS 332994 requirements in the solicitation
- Verify your SAM.gov registration and any required representations are current
- Contact the cognizant contracting officer at ACC-DTA promptly if questions arise, given the compressed response timeline
View the official notice on SAM.gov →