I had a carbon 15 pistol version. I got rid of it because it sucked , and was very unreliable. In the right circumstances, hearing and vision damage are distinct possibilities.

IMO, I'd rather have a 7.62 for long range, a full sized barrelled .223 for most other circumstances. Pdf is essentially correct about the barrell length problem with the M4, as opposed to the UK 20" service rifle, or the marine M16A2/3. At 500 yards you still need a 7.62x51N round though.

My G3 plus 120 rounds extra in loaded clips in a BAR belt weighs 30 lbs. I can carry more than twice the rounds with an M16 and 5,56. I have had to carry my gear in MOPP 4, with an extra 60mm mortar round, or extra 60 ammo for the GPMG and I realize how much it slows one down. In infantry combat speed is also life, just like they say for flying. Try to assault a target carrying your own body weight or next to it and you're too slow.

That causes all kinds of problems. In a mechanized situation the extra gear stays behind in the track on assaults as opposed to light infantry units like airborne/air assault ( which I did in one unit as opposed to my time in a heavy corp in germany).

It's a shame the military needs to keep it to a one rifle compromise. I understand the logistics and see why of course, but a one size fits all approach will have problems somewhere. So far anyway. Joe
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"A Mastiff is to a dog what a Lion is to a housecat. He stands alone and all others sink before him. His courage does not exceed temper and generosity, and in attachment he equals the kindest of his race" Cynographia Britannic 1800