Posted on 09/23/2004 12:51:06 PM PDT by 68skylark
Ok..two questions...is this rifle supposed to totally replace the M-16 series, and will it be chambered in 5.56mm Nato or that new caliber...6.8MM?
bang bang bang!
got any pics or links?
My question, too: what caliber?
I agree that pictures make this kind of article better. However, no pics were posted with the article (or else I'd have linked to them). Hopefully some other freepers will come through for us.
In my last position before retiring from the Army this was one of the weapons development items I was charged with test and evaluation of. The earlier version was cancelled and the required capabilities were changed to be more technologically feasible. Hopefully, they will get it right this time.
Fox News web site can be searched for pics and a video.
They also came with an early variant of the MILES system.
I think it's .223. But someone can correct me if I'm wrong about that.
http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/systems/ground/m8-oicw.htm
5.56mm and it is only 6.2 pounds.
A search on the web found this:
It is essentially the 5.56mm component of the Objective Individual Combat Weapon (OICW), with modular assemblies to make it stand-alone: "Multi-position, collapsible buttstock, forend, sight base, carrying handle, and bipod."
The XM8 can potentially be converted (with a barrel change) for different cartridges, such as the 7.26x39mm, 5.45x39mm, and 6.8x43mm.
It looks like something from a cheesy science fiction movie. From all I've heard, it's a wonderful weapon. But for fierce looks, I think I prefer the M-16/M-4 family.
Golly, I better get me one of them since the "assault rifle" ban has expired! (sarcasm intended)
I agree. An M4 looks mighty scary. An AK is also one that I rate high on "fright-factor"
I have seen this on mail call (history channel). It is one bad ambre. I would favor the XM8 as well. :)
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