Next Generation Squad Weapon: Automatic Rifle | Shooting, Field Strip, and Performance | Textron

The Textron NGSW 6.8 CT Rifle prototype showcases advanced features for the US Army, including a unique cased-telescoped polymer ammunition system with a translating chamber and forward ejection. It boasts fully ambidextrous controls, a removable chamber for easier cleaning, and an integrated 'Smart Rail' for accessory communication. Performance tests indicate recoil is manageable, with energy exceeding 7.62x51mm.

The Next Generation Squad Weapons (NGSW) program introduces the 6.8mm Case Telescoped (CT) ammunition, a significant advancement over traditional brass cartridges. This new ammunition offers superior lethality and barrier penetration compared to 5.56mm, with Textron Systems developing both Battle Rifle and Automatic Rifle variants. The system prioritizes soldier ergonomics and weight reduction, aiming to replace the M249 SAW with a lighter, more effective automatic rifle.

This analysis critiques the US Army's adoption of the M7 rifle and 6.8x51mm caliber, arguing it's a flawed concept. The video contends that justifications like extended range and armor penetration are better addressed by modern drones or specialized bullet designs, not by rearming the entire infantry. It highlights practical engagement limitations due to visibility and suggests a Designated Marksman approach over universal heavy rifles.

This video discusses the U.S. Army's transition away from the 5.56mm and 7.62mm rounds to the new 6.8x51mm cartridge. It highlights the capabilities of the new caliber, developed under the Next Generation Squad Weapon program, emphasizing its increased range, power, and armor penetration. The video also mentions the new firearms and optics paired with this cartridge, including the SIG Sauer M7 rifle, M250 automatic rifle, and XM157 Fire Control optic. It aims to explain why the older calibers are no longer sufficient for modern warfare and positions the 6.8x51mm as a significant advancement in infantry firepower.

This video provides an expert review of the US Army's Next Generation Squad Weapon (NGSW) program, focusing on the Sig Sauer XM5 rifle and XM250 light machine gun. The review highlights the new 6.8x51mm (.277 Fury) caliber, its advanced hybrid case technology, and the significant performance improvements over legacy platforms like the M4 and M249 SAW. The speaker, demonstrating high authority, details the ergonomics, shooting characteristics, and technical advantages of both new systems.

The XM7/M7 NGSW program is analyzed by a former Ordnance Officer, suggesting it's a strategic move for modularity rather than an immediate performance leap. Key considerations include the logistical challenges of new ammunition and the potential for caliber conversion to 7.62x51mm NATO. The XM157 optic's active laser use is flagged as a battlefield risk, emphasizing the continued importance of traditional marksmanship.

In close-quarters combat, drawing a pistol can be dangerous as an opponent can easily grab the firearm. A tactical knife offers a safer alternative, allowing the user to create space by targeting vital areas like the carotid artery or kidneys. This space allows for a safe transition back to a firearm. The video demonstrates this strategy using a Glock pistol and a fixed-blade knife.

This video details crucial footwork techniques for Navy SEALs during Close Quarters Combat (CQC). It emphasizes 'economy of motion' and the 'long step' technique for balanced entry into corner-fed rooms, ensuring immediate engagement capability. Proper footwork prevents exposing vulnerable side plates and maintains a stable shooting platform.

This video demonstrates a clever modification of standard military cloth bandoliers to increase their magazine capacity. By releasing a hidden white string, the pockets expand, allowing them to hold one or even two 5.56mm magazines each. Special Forces operators pack these expanded bandoliers with other essentials for rapid emergency resupply in the field.

This ballistic gel test compares 9mm Barnes TAC-XPD and .45 ACP Cor-Bon Pow'RBall. The 9mm achieved deeper penetration (13-14 inches) with consistent expansion, while the .45 ACP created a larger wound cavity and significant energy transfer but slightly less penetration. The Cor-Bon Pow'RBall's design enhances feeding reliability in 1911 platforms.