[re_tail20]

The question is, which trade off do you want ?

For the regular Soldier’s rifle, do you want reliability or great accuracy ?

I think the obvious answer is reliability, with the piston. Piston accuracy is and will be good enough. They can always call in a sniper rifle, perhaps the DGI M110 automatic sniper rifle, when they need accuracy for distant enemy targets.

[Durus]

The entire concept of "good enough" accuracy goes against modern combat doctrine. Pistons aren't inherently more reliable anyway. Ever had an op-rod get bent on an M1A? That why competitors starting using ARs. People that compete nationally and are sponsored can use any rifles they want. The rifles must be accurate and dependable. Most people use ARs.

An AR/M16/M4 made with modern materials using modern ammo is as reliable as any battle rifle. With a ammo upgrade like 6.5 grendel it opens it's operational envelope to 700meters. No other battle rifle could match it.