Doer
Well-Known Member
Full auto isn't for killing, it's for keeping heads down so the more mobile guys with semi-auto fire weapons can close with the enemy. You know how many times one of my buddies used anything other than the semi setting on their M4's in combat? Zero, it's a waste of ammo. On the pistol vs. auto rifle debate: In an urban environment, your pistol is just as useful as his rifle; you're not making 100yd shots here, across a street is likely your max engagement range as a cop.
And the MP7 is the thing to have for urban. And Lots of house to house with SAW in Iraq, right?? Don't bother to open the closets.
True - infantry use a 3 round burst and full auto on a .223 is a spray the way out, or a Mad Minute thing. The SAW is hardly for keeping heads down. And there are new multi-purpose infantry weapons coming on line, in heavier caliber. so that many can support the SAWs in enfilade and/or advance with a lightweight battle rifle. But, with a lot more knock down against doped up tee-shirts.
It is all about range. M-16 is a 400m, fire at the flashes or "over there." A bullpup design in 6.3mm or so is the best of both worlds, I think.