05-18-2011, 06:38 PM
Quote:I agree, but we've been discussing projectile design because that's a vitally important part of what the thread is about -- new cartridge developments.
stanc,
It's also essential to have a new cartridge if any hopes of replacing the 2 current US shoulder-fired belt-fed machineguns with a single platform will be realized. The fact that cartridge developments are what they are now is what I think makes this new Multi-Role LMG a greater possibility in the near future.
If the KAC LMG receiver was oriented in a half-bullpup configuration like the FG42 or M60, it would allow more barrel length to get velocities closer to 2800 fps with 6mm-6.5 projectiles. I'm thinking of an entirely new true bullpup design, that uses a simple "nutsack" solution like we used on the SAW, since feed-source location is much more problematic on a bullpup when using a box-shaped, versus straight magazine behind the pistol grip. With a little pig less than the length of an M16A2, you could still have a 24" barrel length and the first truly ergonomic design for gunners.
Every machinegun I have shot, carried, or played with almost always has horrible ergonomics with regard to: 1) firing hand interface, 2) cheek weld, 3) eye-height relationship to sights, 4) carrying interface, 5) Center of balance, and most Western GPMG's have no provisions for mounting a drum or box to feed the gun with in a maneuver or practical environment.
The MG42, HK21, and PKM are exceptions to the lack of attached feed source, and several designs have been field-rigged for the M60 and M240, but they were not part of the Basic Inventory Items of the US GPMG's when I was in. They just expected the gunner to rely on his Assistant Gunner for supply of ammunition, after burning through a 50rd starter belt. I must tell you that is one vulnerable feeling when you're humping a 30lb hunk of steel. Compare that to some bugger-eater running around with a PKM and its attached 100rd/200rd/250rd ammo can.
Is it starting to make more sense now when I say, this end of the equation is broken? It just shows how tough and tenacious our guys are, especially when you look at the ridiculous loads they carry versus anyone we've fought in that past 50 years, and the overwhelming combat successes the US has displayed in dismounted warfare. I say we give Joe a break and increase his firepower and maneuver capability in one sweep.
LRRPF52