The Dawgs of War

Published on October 9, 2025
Duration: 159:33

This video provides an in-depth look at FN America's new Lick IWS (Individual Weapon System) and Lick AMG (Assault Machine Gun) prototypes, developed for the DoD's Irregular Warfare Technical Support Directorate. The systems chambered in a new 6.5x43 Lick caliber aim to offer improved lethality and handling over current platforms, featuring a long-stroke gas piston system, ambidextrous controls, and dedicated polymer magazines. While aesthetically divisive, these prototypes represent FN's push for next-generation weaponry, potentially challenging SIG Sauer's NGSW program.

Quick Summary

FN America has developed new prototype weapon systems, the Lick IWS rifle and Lick AMG machine gun, chambered in a novel 6.5x43 Lick caliber. These systems feature a long-stroke gas piston, dual charging, and lightweight steel cases, aiming to outperform current military firearms like the M4A1 and potentially compete with SIG's NGSW.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction & Channel Banter
  2. 01:13:30FN Lick IWS & AMG Prototypes Revealed
  3. 01:48:30Lick IWS Features and Design
  4. 01:57:00Lick AMG Machine Gun System
  5. 02:07:006.5x43 Lick Ammunition Details
  6. 02:17:00FN's Claims on Accuracy and Performance
  7. 02:25:00Barrel Lengths and Magazine Capacity
  8. 02:30:00Aesthetic Criticisms and Design Choices
  9. 02:40:00Comparison to NGSW and M4A1
  10. 02:50:00FN's Future Plans and Market Entry
  11. 03:00:00User Feedback and Technical Specifications
  12. 03:10:00FN America Employee Insights
  13. 03:20:00Discussion on FN Guardian and Past Products
  14. 03:30:00Comparison to Other Weapon Systems (XM25, ACR)
  15. 03:40:00M4A1 vs. New Prototypes Debate
  16. 03:50:00Drone Warfare and Anti-Drone Solutions
  17. 04:00:00FN's 'Final Solution' and Market Pricing
  18. 04:10:00Final Thoughts and Viewer Comments

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the FN Lick IWS and Lick AMG?

The FN Lick IWS (Individual Weapon System) and Lick AMG (Assault Machine Gun) are new prototype weapon systems developed by FN America for the U.S. Department of Defense. They are chambered in a new 6.5x43 Lick caliber and aim to offer improved performance over current military firearms.

What is the new 6.5x43 Lick caliber?

The 6.5x43 Lick caliber is a new intermediate cartridge developed by FN America, featuring lightweight stainless steel cases. It is designed to offer improved lethality, range, and performance over 5.56mm ammunition while being lighter than traditional larger calibers.

What are the key features of the FN Lick IWS?

The FN Lick IWS is an AR-15 sized rifle with a long-stroke gas piston system, no buffer tube, and a dual charging system. It aims for improved recoil management, durability, and features a 25-round polymer magazine and is available in multiple barrel lengths.

How do the FN Lick systems compare to the SIG NGSW?

The FN Lick systems are presented as alternatives to SIG Sauer's NGSW program. While the NGSW's M7 is AR-10 sized, the Lick IWS is closer to AR-15 size, potentially offering a lighter and more manageable package with similar or improved performance claims.

What is the claimed accuracy of the FN Lick IWS?

FN America claims the Lick IWS is consistently two times more accurate than the M4A1. This is interpreted as potentially meaning half the group size, though the practical necessity for a standard fighting rifle is debated.

More from FocusTripp

View all →