The AR-15 / M16 Rifle History, Part II, a mixed welcome

Published on August 26, 2017
Duration: 50:10

This video delves into the history and development of the AR-15/M16 rifle, focusing on the military's need for a new service weapon to replace the M14. It details the shortcomings of the M14, the influence of the Soviet AK-47, the development of the .223 Remington cartridge, and the initial challenges faced by the M16 during its introduction into service, particularly concerning corrosion and ammunition issues. The narrative highlights the role of key figures like Eugene Stoner and Robert McNamara in the rifle's journey.

Quick Summary

The M14 rifle was deemed a failure by the US military due to its excessive weight, difficulty in marksmanship, and limited ammunition carrying capacity. This, coupled with the threat of the Soviet AK-47's rapid fire capability, spurred the development of the AR-15, which utilized lighter materials and the high-velocity .223 Remington cartridge for improved performance and reliability.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to AR-15/M16 History Part II
  2. 00:18Recap of M14 Shortcomings
  3. 03:39Military Requirements for a New Rifle
  4. 05:27The Soviet Threat and AK-47 Influence
  5. 08:22Development of the .223 Remington Cartridge
  6. 10:18Material Advancements in AR-15 Design
  7. 11:42Ordnance Department Resistance to AR-15
  8. 13:12Armalite's Licensing and Colt's Involvement
  9. 14:18Robert McNamara and Defense Consolidation
  10. 17:03AR-15 in Vietnam: Early Reports
  11. 21:01The Gulf of Tonkin Incident and Escalation
  12. 22:22General Order to Procure AR-15s
  13. 24:07Early AR-15/M16 Features
  14. 25:29Downplaying the AR-15's Introduction
  15. 26:18Alleged Sabotage of M16 Introduction
  16. 27:26Corrosion Issues: Non-Plated Chambers
  17. 31:10Ammunition Issues: Winchester Ball Powder
  18. 35:25Consequences of Corrosion: Bolt Thrust
  19. 36:39Military Knowledge of Chrome-Lining
  20. 37:39First Guns Sent to Vietnam: Corrosion Problems
  21. 38:29Lack of Cleaning Equipment in Vietnam
  22. 41:42Complaints and Investigations from the Field
  23. 43:53Water in Buffer Tube and Hydraulic Lock
  24. 46:02The Nature of Military Stories and BS
  25. 47:53The Role of Chamber Cleaning Brushes
  26. 48:46Resistance to M16 Adoption Continues
  27. 49:21Evolution to M16A1 Variant

Frequently Asked Questions

Why was the M14 rifle considered a failure by the US military?

The M14 was deemed a failure due to its excessive weight, making it difficult for soldiers to carry into battle. Additionally, it presented challenges in marksmanship, with only a quarter of personnel qualifying as expert, and its bulk limited the amount of ammunition a soldier could carry.

What role did the Soviet AK-47 play in the development of the AR-15?

The Soviet AK-47's compact design and ability to deliver persistent fire were seen as a formidable threat. This highlighted the need for the US military to adopt a similar type of weapon that offered greater firepower and agility compared to their existing rifles.

What were the main technical advantages of the AR-15's design?

The AR-15 design incorporated lighter materials like aluminum for receivers and plastics for components, significantly reducing weight. It also utilized the .223 Remington cartridge, offering high velocity and effectiveness, and was designed for corrosion resistance, a key improvement over older firearms.

What were the primary issues encountered with the early M16 rifles in Vietnam?

Early M16s suffered from corrosion due to non-chrome-lined chambers, especially in Vietnam's humid climate. Issues with ammunition powder types, lack of proper cleaning equipment, and water ingress into the buffer tube also contributed to malfunctions and reliability problems.

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