US Weapons

Today was a fun day. We went out to the range and had the opportunity to try our hand at a number of weapons in the US arsenal. The M249 squad assault weapon fires the same ammunition that the M16 does, but is capable of automatic fire. It is a heavier weapon, better able to abate the heat build up by firing rounds repetitively. The M240B is a heavier weapon than the M249, firing 7.62mm rather than 5.56mm rounds. It is also considered a superior design. The M203 is a grenade launcher that bolts on under the handgrip of the M16, firing 40mm grenades out to several hundred meters. The AT4 is a light anti-armor weapon, playing a similar role to the Russian RPG, but much more accurate and reliable. Finally, the claymore mine provides good defense, and can also be used well in an ambush. We had the opportunity to fire all of these weapons. The day at the range was just basic familiarization. In a pinch, those of us who paid attention would know how to load, fire and clear each weapon. We did not have enough practice to be considered anywhere near qualified. Still, it provided a good taste of weapons some of us will train on in AIT or in our units, depending on whether our job requires it.