Next new assault rifle?

[The Deer Hunter]

So whats going to be the next great assault rifle?

Its been a while since Ugiene Stoner made the M-16(whatever it is) and a really long while since Kilashnikov desinged the Ak-47. I have seen alot on these new aged ones with laser guided 12 GA. grenades and bullet counters and such but most have failed.

discuss

 

[RCR29]

a phased plasma rifle, in the 40 watt range.

 

[RockyMtnTactical]

In all honesty, those designs were such big advancements that we're not going to see anything much better until we switch the ammo and/or the projectiles.

 

[azredhawk44]

I'd say a longer action will be coming, for these reasons:
1. Larger caliber, probably around .25/6.5mm in size.
2. More powder to accomodate heavier bullet and zip it along at 2500fps like the current 5.56nato.
3. Cyclic rate of assualt rifles on full auto is not of primary importance anymore. We have honest to god machine guns for that now.
4. Gas system instead of recoil operated.

Other than that, pretty much an AR platform with a 16" or less barrel. If 5.56 is an AR15 and 7.62 is an AR10, can we call it an AR13? Larger (longer) mags and a longer action.

 

[ebd10]

a phased plasma rifle, in the 40 watt range.

DANG! You beat me to it!

 

[Evil Monkey]

The next big thing would be something like the G11. Caseless ammo, 3rd burst and 2,000rpm, huge mag capacities, LMG version that uses a disposable mag instead of a clumsy belt.

In fact, just bring back the G11 and LMG11.

 

[ebd10]

In fact, just bring back the G11 and LMG11.

I seem to recall that they had problems with the caseless ammo cooking off when the weapon got too hot. I could be wrong.

 

[Cromlech]

DISCLAIMER: I am speaking from no experience whatsoever!

Integral compensator/sound moderator technology, without too much added bulk or weight. (maybe sound moderator/silencer system that can be turned off for suppressing fire, or on for sneaky work)

Something like the 6.5 or 6.8 chamberings, to allow for better 'stopping power' and decent ammo capacity.

Laser range-finder technology, built into the stock.

A low-magnification optical sight not too much bigger than the SUSAT, with a digital readout for the rangefinder.


Geeky stuff like that.

 

[Kaeto]

A M-41A PulseRifle

 

[Mandirigma]

Weren't they working on a MetalStorm Infantry weapon?