So was the Kalashnikov, and it's still in use all over the world. A good weapon is a good weapon, period. Advancements have been made, parts are plentiful, ammunition is available, and you can have them in many different calibers. If you want something bigger that an ar15 can chamber, there is the ar10.Doc Dan wrote: ↑Fri May 27, 2022 8:46 amThe M16 is nearly 70 years old, now. It was designed in the 1950's. I don't know if the new Sig is a better rifle in every way. I hope they solve the mud problem. However, in some ways it is a better design. It runs cleaner, for one thing. Something had to be done. We couldn't keep fielding a firearm that was becoming antiquated by world standards.
I agree that it's an old design, but it's modularity, ease of use, ease of disassembly and maintenance, make it a great choice for most roles. It's simple and reliable. The new Sig takes cues from the AR, which is good. Familiarity is good, makes it easier to transition to a new system. I'm sure it will be well liked as well. Nothing wrong with piston systems either, and the mud tests are exaggerated, but they should be imo. Push them to the point of failure and then figure out how to fix it. Or just keep the dust cover closed...haha!
I mean, the AK will fail with too much mud ingress as well, and people all the time scream about how it's more reliable in adverse conditions. It's myth. A little dirt won't hurt, but don't pack it with mud, and you'll be OK. Seems reasonable.
It's kind of like how people say ARs need to be sloppy wet to run. It's just not true. I oil my bcg on the four surfaces that contact the receiver and it runs great. Over 600 rounds and haven't done a full cleaning yet... Just wiping off the bcg and a little oil. One malfunction, and it was a dud round. Sure I'm just plinking, but it goes bang so?