1950s investigation on the next generation rifle.

Manic Moran

Fascinating little document just showed up. Goes into detail on what actually the requirements of the next generation rifle should be. Note, this actually pre-dates the 7.62mm round, let alone 5.56mm.

http://www.cfspress.com/sharpshooters/pdfs/Operational-Requrements-For-An-Infantry-Hand-Weapon.pdf

The arguments apply quite well, even with the knowledge in hindsight that we went to 5.56mm.

NTM

Avgas

Great link Manic.

However, what is the stuff at point 8 about improving the lethality of rds by adding agents..(I'm guessing they mean bio/chemicals)..........that never happened ....or did it?:)

Also I wonder how valid today is the argument that one can trade-off the smallness of the calibre (5.56mm) for an increased probability of hits (or at least greater suppressive effect by volume of fire) when future OPFOR may well be wearing quite advanced ceramic or similar body armour?

I don't know what the PLA are issuing...but I would not be surprised if Chinese industry has not already produced equivalents of interceptor/dragonskin etc. Given the role of China in other parts of the world we and other western armies can expect to meet Chinese arms and gear in Africa, middle east and latin America over the coming years.......

How does this change things today for the 5.56mm debate?

concussion

6.8

Or this 12.7 mm semi-auto :O
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t-Vrvh7qeGA&feature=player_embedded