Amongst airsoft players, the mention of Israel Weapon Industries (IWI) will always bring to mind two rifle series, the Tavor and the Galil Series. These days, players will encounter more of the Tavor in the airsoft market as there are options in getting these. But with the introduction of the Carmel 5.56mm Carbine, the airsoft market might have another IWI rifle in the future.

Take note, the Carmel is not a bullpup like the IWI Tavor family.

Not yet found at IWI’s official website, the Carmel was first on display in April during the Latin American Defence and Security exhibition in Brazil and in June at the ISDEF Defense and HLS expo in Tel Aviv.  It is a short-stroke gas operating system that is lightweight at 3.3kg  and is mainly made of polymer. It has a folding buttstock to use in tighter environments and it can take in 30-round STANAG magazines as the 5.56mm magazine is in use in both the Tavor and M4 rifles in use in the IDF. The stock also has a cheek rest as well.

It has a quick change barrel features with lengths of 10.5, 12, 14.5, 16-inches. Operation is ambidextrous with 6 sling attachment points with a top rail for attachments, and three rails at 3, 6, and 9 o’clock positions. It follows the new generation rifles in terms of modularity and even the cocking handle can be moved to the left and right sides just like the FN SCAR. For the meantime, it is available for the 5.56mm round but there are plans to make it more multi-caliber just like the Tavor X95 which can be configured to fire 5.56mm, 9mm, and 5.45mm.

Learn more about the IWI Carmel in this video from The Firearm Blog.