Grendel as a Universal Infantry Cartridge

[JASmith]

...My point is that unless you can articulate a quantum increase somewhere -- the system will not even drop seed money into a project.

LR1955

This is the point to articulating requirements. We start with a set of threshold requirements. In this case the threshold is a cartridge that is significantly lighter than the 7.62X51, but otherwise of the same performance. The objective, or "nice to have," or "what we're really looking for," statements lay out what a "quantum improvement, if any, means.

A major caveat is that the objective requirement statements need to be physically realizable. Done right, the process will tell us if there is a snowflake's chance in a warm place of demonstrating significant improvement.

Right now, substantial reductions in number for weight for both 5.56 and 7.62 is nearly a slam-dunk when plastic cartridge cases are demonstrated to be viable. Tony is advocating that the upgrade offers an opportunity to examine a change in the mix of calibers. Yes, he has a favorite, but in my view, we should consider it one of several options.

Another option is "do nothing." I am more than willing to accept this as our bottom line in spite of my interest in inventing new things. But the truth is we know there is at least some dissatisfaction and we have folks with the knowledge and energy to explore the options. Once completed, we will have a better appreciation about how much improvement is practicable.

In the interim, we can learn a lot about one of our favorite topics!

Cheers!