A Soldier’s Arsenal: From M16 to Modern Assault Rifles

During my time in the military, I had the privilege of carrying a wide array of weapons, including the iconic M16 series. Each weapon had its unique characteristics and played a significant role in combat operations. In this article, we will explore the weapons I used and my personal preferences among them.

Experiencing the M16 Series

During Operation Desert Storm (Desert Shield), I had the opportunity to carry the M16-A1. This weapon was just one of the many that I used, and it served me well in various scenarios. Later, I also had the chance to use the M16-A2 both with and without an M-203. Additionally, the M-4 Carbine, M-249 SAW, M-60 machine gun, and M-240B machine gun were all part of my arsenal. Among all these weapons, my absolute favorite was the M-249 SAW, often referred to as a 'bullet hose.' Its accuracy, light maneuverability, and reliability made it an standout piece of equipment. I often joked that no man would want to face it at close range; it was that effective.

SLR L1A1: A Reliable and Powerful Choice

I also loved the SLR L1A1, a weapon that was accurate and reliable most of the time. Its 7.62mm calibre provided a sense of comfort and power that made it a favorite in many situations. However, the downside was its power in the round, which, in some scenarios, proved too much. This could have contributed to its displacement from frontline use. I would have appreciated the features of the FN version, which included a selector switch between safe and automatic settings, as well as a more robust barrel and gas parts.

My Primary Weapon: M4A3 Carbine

As an 0311 Infantry Rifleman in the USMC, my primary weapon was the M4A3 Carbine. However, my arsenal was far more diverse. For a comprehensive list of the weapons I carried during my service, see below:

M2 M240B M249 SAW M203 M32 M9 MK19 M72 LAW M79 Frag M16A4 M224 mortar MK18 claymore

Interesting Side Notions

During range qualification, as Company Commander, it was my responsibility to ensure that all the M3A1 Grease Guns issued to my team were fully functional. Testing often involved several magazines to guarantee reliability.

For a more comprehensive understanding of general-purpose machine guns in the sustained fire role, also known as GPMGs, they are belt-fed and have a cyclic rate of fire of 1000 rounds per minute. This makes them highly effective in both defensive and offensive roles.

At San Diego MCRD back in 1969, we were initially trained on the M-14. However, after our transition to Camp Pendleton, we trained primarily on the M-16. It's fascinating to see how the evolution of weapons and ammunition has shaped modern infantry tactics and operations.

Throughout my service, the M16 series and other weapons have been integral to our operations. Each has its unique strengths and played a crucial role in achieving mission success. As discussed, the M-249 SAW stands out for its reliability and effectiveness, while the SLR L1A1 offers a balance of accuracy and power. The diverse array of weapons in my arsenal underscores the importance of versatility and adaptability in the modern battlefield.