Why the USMC and Other Security Services Prefer M16/M4s
Introduction to M16 and M4 Modern Usage
Have you served in the military? Once equipped with the M16/M4 and seeing the variety of weapons used around the world, it becomes clear why the M4 remains a key choice. It has long been considered the gold standard for service rifles due to its reliability, accuracy, and lethality.
USMC and AR-like Carbines
The Marines wield the M27 and AR-like carbines, which they use because of their exceptional performance. These rifles are far from standard; the term "M16" generally refers to the original version of the rifle used from the early 1960s during the Kennedy administration.
The current iteration of the M16/M4, introduced in the 2000s, has significantly improved over the original. Despite the initial design staying the same, the rifle has been continuously updated and refined to meet modern military standards. This ensures that the basic design remains relevant and effective, even after decades of use.
Modern Improvements and Adaptations
Instead of discarding the M16 entirely, military forces have kept it as the primary infantry rifle while adopting a shorter variant, the M4, for close-quarters combat environments. Cities like those encountered in Iraq and Afghanistan, with their confined spaces, have led to the development of the M4 for more tactical situations.
Reliability and Durability of M16 and M4
The primary reason the M16 and M4 are favored is their remarkable reliability. The .556x45mm round used by both is highly effective, while the larger .762mm caliber can be less reliable and accurate. Furthermore, these rifles were produced by the company that offered the most cost-effective solution.
It's important to note that despite the early criticisms during the 1960s, these rifles have proven highly functional over time. As issues were identified and addressed, the M16 and M4 have become not just reliable, but also remarkably simple to maintain and clean. In my 23 years in the Infantry, operator error was often the reason for any malfunctions, rather than inherent design flaws.
Field Testimonials and Military Accuracy
To further underline the success of these rifles, a 2010 study by two reporters involved Marines and soldiers in Afghanistan. Among a sample of 100 infantry members, all reported zero issues with their M4s. Even in the rare instance of a breakdown, as in the story of a soldier who fell into a canal, the rifle functioned well after proper cleaning. The M16 and M4 have become so trusted that they remain the backbone of many security services worldwide.
Conclusion
While debates about the ideal infantry rifle are countless, the M16 and M4 have proven their worth time and again. Their reliability, combined with years of continuous improvement, makes them the go-to choice for military and security services. Whether in the jungles of Vietnam, the deserts of the Middle East, or the cities of today, the M16 and M4 are trusted to provide the necessary support and protection.