[LoneRangerMassachusetts]

The M1 is a battle rifle, full powered round (7.62x54 30.06) for longer range engagements. The M-16 is a select fire rifle (assault rifle) that fires a mid-power load (5.56x45 or, nominally, .223) for high rate of fire at medium range.

The 30.06 is the standard for American big game rifles, the .223 is illegal for deer in most states.

Someone will pick a nit with all that no doubt.

The lighter weight of the M16 and the ammunition means one can carry more rounds with them. The shorter effective firing range of the M16 was not handicapped by firing lots of rounds at a hidden enemy in the jungle. I'll take the M14 in open plains warfare.

[MileHi]

The shorter effective firing range of the M16 was not handicapped by firing lots of rounds at a hidden enemy in the jungle.

Agreed. I has been pretty good in most situations.

I'll take the M14 in open plains warfare.

Agree, but I will have to settle for an M1.