Testing, testing...

[JASmith]

...Give attention to plausible and feasible alternatives, certainly. But, I see no logic in being concerned with ideas that have been shown to be implausible or otherwise not worth pursuing. The task is difficult enough without devoting time and $$$ on ideas that have been demonstrated to not be viable.

I've been there with other but still relevant military systems. The point is that the alternative cartridge will not be in competition with either 5.56 or the 7.62 or both. It will compete with other candidates whose adherents also believe their concepts are superior.

That's the major reason why I suggest a look at these alternatives. Our concept will need to both be significantly better in at least one aspect than the existing ammunition types and somehow be more attractive than these alternatives.

Some of the new-old ideas will prove to be viable and will affect the application space.

To repeat one more time -- the detractors will grab any specious argument.