ACOGs making a difference for the Marines in Iraq

[natedog]

What model ACOG is that?

 

[Zak Smith]

Some TA31 variant. I heard the Marines were using the chevron reticle.. ?

-z

 

[Quartus]

M16s aren't commercial heavy barreled AR clones. They're lighter-barreled rifles that have been used, abused, and probably cleaned from the muzzle quite a bit.

A standard M16 isn't "match grade"; if it was, it would be less reliable. Match grade parts break, and don't work when dirty.

Original specs for the A1 called for 1 MOA, and they delivered it. Don't know about the A4.

At 500 meters, with iron sights, prone position, my groups were about 10-12 inches or so, IIRC. <shrug> With a 4x scope I don't think that hit was just luck.

 

[Lumpy196]

TA31F with the chevron reticle calibrated for mounting on a flat top using M855 ammo.

 

[Sven]

Great, now they will be even more scarce!

 

[Kestrel]

In the picture of the Marine holding his rifle with a cigarette in his hand, what is in the guy's hand in the background - on the left?

It looks like it has a white handle and he is ready to hit the door with it. Almost looks like some sort of axe.

Steve

 

[Bartholomew Roberts]

Hmmm, no backup sights on any of the ACOG-equipped rifles. Guess they are using detachable carry handles for backup?

 

[Med 10]

Steve, my guess would be either a Halligan or an axe of some sort. The other Marine has a sledge hammer so they are probably getting ready to breach the door. More than likely its a polymer handle axe.

The fire service uses these tools in combinations known as a "set of irons" and they are very good at forcing doors open. I've seen pics of guys using K-12 saws over there as well. I'm familiar with all these breaching tools from my experience in the fire service. Effective tools but heavy to lug around.