U.S. troops using confiscated Iraqi AK-47s (favored over M-16s)

boston.com ^ | 8/24/2003 14:00 | Andrew England

[Destro]

BAQOUBA, Iraq (AP) An American soldier stands at the side of an Iraqi highway, puts his AK-47 on fully automatic and pulls the trigger.

Within seconds the assault rifle has blasted out 30 rounds. Puffs of dust dance in the air as the bullets smack into the scrubland dirt. Test fire complete.

[r9etb]

We trained with them in the MP's and you could literally write your name with them.

Lessee -- to write "Lazamataz" would require the optional 1000-round clip. Now that does sound fun!

[Mulder]

I'm guessing that those troops who properly maintain their M-4 are keeping it, and the ones carrying the AKs are the same ones who lack the inclination to maintain their 5.56 carbine.

[Lazamataz]

Lessee -- to write "Lazamataz" would require the optional 1000-round clip. Now that does sound fun!

Did I mention my real name is 'I'?

[cavtrooper21]

Basic load for a infantryman is 120 rnds in mags (plus 30) in the weapon (if he has any brains at all!!) and 100 to 200 in bandoliers in his ruck. The reporter that wrote this doesn't know squat about soldiering.
Besides, the guys sound like tankers. They are never far away from the tank so they don't carry the ammo load that a light infantryman would. I'd bet that their scout platoon is up to their little beady eyeballs in ammo and other things that go boom. Scouts can never get enough of that stuff. I know, I used to be one.

[templar]

Actually, the M-14 (that is, the M-1 Garand with it's problems fixed) is the best all-purpose small arm in the world.

The M-14 is an excellent battle rifle, but I'd go for the FAL any day (I've owned both in semi auto, still have the FAL. I've fired both in full auto versions, the FAL is useable, the M14 is almost uncontrollable). Neither would be my choice for any close quarters combat, just too long and too much recoil to go at it in 10 foot rooms easily. Personally, I'd prefer the Krinkov AK variant for urban assault use, heavier caliber than the little sub guns but still small, quick handling, and controllable.

In any case, I'd prefer the AK (either 47 or 74) over the M16 for extended rough duty in an adverse environment.

[cavtrooper21]

I've messed around with both, the stamped is a little "flexier" and some of the metel flanges can bend.
As far as reliabilty. Either or...
Still can't beat the FN, I like the DSA versions. Bit on the pricy side but very well put together. And lots of nifty options!!

[PatrioticAmerican]

I'll take a poly tip round firing M-16 any day over an AK. I hate those damned things.

[Destro]

I will not!

[Lazamataz]

You and I think nearly perfectly alike, except I would select an MP-5 for urban assault.

[Lazamataz]

Oh, I also think the M-14 slightly edges out the FAL, although I do love the FAL. I had one once.

[Lazamataz]

I'll take a poly tip round firing M-16 any day over an AK. I hate those damned things.

Why?

[11B3]

"I think there's one that's newer still. It has a high cyclic rate for 3 rds then cycles lower.... neat stuff..."

I can't remember the nomenclature for that weapon, but it was featured in SGN a while ago. The system for cyclic reduction is coupled to a system that uses a cable and pulleys. Longevity isn't known yet. They aren't issued to anyone except for FSB agents so far. Not exactly a front-line battle rifle.

I'll weigh in on the side of the FN/FAL Para 1st and the M1A second. I use my AR or my AK for plinking, not serious shooting.

[RANGERAIRBORNE]

You are talking about essentially SWAT team tactics- clearing buildings room by room. For that, the MP5 is great (or the UZI). But I'm talking about a real combat rifle with some range and a few extra foot-pounds of energy at 300 or 400 meters to take an enemy out of the fight. Not everything is CQB, even in Iraq.

I would hunt moose with an M14, but not with any of these varmint cartridges...

[cavtrooper21]

Why??
Because they are a "commie" design?
Because they are seen in the hands of just about every "anti-American" guerilla and terrorist on the face of the planet.
Thats only because they are cheaper.
M16 is @ 250.00 on the black market and hard to find
Ak types are @ 50.00 (or free) and common as dirt.
A weapon is a weapon.

[templar]

Oh, I also think the M-14 slightly edges out the FAL, although I do love the FAL. I had one once.

Well, I'd be hard presed to defend one or the other as the best. I kept the FAL and sold the 14 for several reasons. the FAL has a better supply of mags and other parts at reasonable prices, I like the integrated bipod of the FAL, and the ergonomics just feel better to me. I think the M14 has somewhat better accuracy potential, and it is much more adaptable to bayonet use (which probably isn't much of a military factor any more and is of virtually no civilian value). Either of them are rugged and reliable, I've never had a problem with either.

[templar]

I would hunt moose with an M14, but not with any of these varmint cartridges...

Well, I can't argue with that. Shoot a moose with a 16 or AK and it might get mad at you.

[cavtrooper21]

I love the 7.62/.308
You can hunt every type of game in North America with it.


Of course it depends on how much squirrel you want left...

[Lazamataz]

You are talking about essentially SWAT team tactics- clearing buildings room by room. For that, the MP5 is great (or the UZI).

Actually, I've had the chance to fire the Uzi auto recreationally, and the MP-5 in a more 'professional' environment. Let me tell you, the Uzi SUCKS in comparison to the MP-5. The Uzi has a heavy internal bolt that, as it clangs around in there, totally messes up your aim point. The MP-5 is clean. Sweet. The delayed rolling-block makes it soooooo smooth.

The Uzi is also an ergonomic nightmare compared to the MP-5. You can't barely attach anything to the top of the Uzi, those STANAG mounts suck donkey genitalia. The grip of the Uzi is awkward at best.

In a pinch, grab an MP.

[Wolverine]

Thanks...I suppose tankers are not issued rifles, when dismounted they need more than their 9mm.

[Centurion2000]

We need to define the word finest, because my definition of finest is most reliable general rifle and best all around weapon. :o)`

Here's a fine weapon

Our 700 Nitro Express. It is built on a 50BMG single shot action, and has a 24" barrel