What is one of the characteristics of the M4 service rifle?

The M4 service rifle is classified as a magazine-fed and gas-operated weapon, which is a fundamental characteristic of its design and functionality. This means that rather than relying on a manually operated action such as a pump or bolt, the M4 uses the gas generated from firing a round to cycle the action, automatically chambering the next round from the magazine. This gas operation contributes to a faster rate of fire and enhances the overall efficiency of the weapon during combat scenarios.

The magazine-fed feature indicates that the M4 uses detachable magazines to hold ammunition, allowing for quick reloading and the ability to carry multiple magazines for sustained fire. The combination of these two characteristics makes the M4 an effective and versatile rifle for military operations, fostering adaptability on the battlefield.