What weapon will replace the M-16?

Question

It is my understanding already that the M-4 carbine is being used in the interim to replacing the M-16. I was just wondering if they've decided which weapon is to be the new infantry rifle?

Answer 1

Well one thing I'm sure of is that it won't be the M4.  As you so aptly put it the M4 is a carbine.  It's used in Iraq so much because it is a few inches shorter than the M16 therefore more handy in close quarters such as inside of buildings and homes.  I'm sure that now that the Europeans have a monopoly on interchangeable ammunition they will insist on interchangeable weapons and spare parts as well and in the interests of 'interoperability' the powers that be will select the approved European weapon.  Don't sweat it, I prophesy a German or Austrian contender sweeping the table clean and building factories in the US to manufacture it under liscence so we can at least make believe that its a home grown product.  good luck to you.

Answer 2

M-4 is doing just that.

Vet-USAF

Answer 3

The M-4 is replacing them but I love the M-16, very steady , easy to use, and been good to me since 2001.

Answer 4

Good question. Currently the FN SCAR-L MK16 and HK 416's look like they may pull the duty in the future. The Colts are OK, but have never performed exceptionally, they just have too many problems. The FN's and HK's don't do a whole lot different, but have less reliability problems than the current M4/M16 variations.

I like the FN and the HK because they are super tough, reliable and very accurate.

One of the primary issues involving a replacement rifle for the M4/M16 variations is budget. The XM8 was also a weapon that got a lot of attention and fared very well in trials, but again, budget became the predominant issue.

It may be a while before we see the M4/M16 eclipsed by some newer rifle.

Answer 5

The M-4 already has for some years no and rightfully so as the M-16 is a piece of c**p!

Answer 6

I agree with the above the only problem is the M4 is just a variation of the M-16 so is still a piece of c**p.  I do hope the next time the US sits down to adopt a new rifle is goes to something in a larger caliber with more stopping power and range.  The only thing to do if we stick with the 5.56Mm round is get something that is not as fragile and prone to jamming as the M-16 family (including the M-4) is.

Answer 7

http://www.defense-update.com/products/s...

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/XM29_OICW

M4 assault rifle

Possibly the above

Answer 8

You should watch Future Weapons. A lot of retired vets are getting together (from what I've seen in the show) and coming up with some pretty cool ****. Check out Future Weapons man and you'll see what I mean lol.