The NGSW M7 Rifle: Just My Opinion on the Next Generation Service Weapon

Published on October 29, 2023
Duration: 13:05

This video offers a critical opinion on the US military's Next Generation Squad Weapon (NGSW) program, specifically the M7 rifle. The speaker, with extensive industry experience, argues that the M7 represents a step backward, citing concerns about its 6.8x51mm cartridge's high pressures, recoil, and impracticality for typical engagements. He contrasts this with the historical lessons learned from the M14 and the success of the M16/M4 platform, suggesting the M7 may face limited adoption like the AN94 or SCAR-Light.

Quick Summary

The US military's M7 rifle, part of the Next Generation Squad Weapon program, faces criticism for its 6.8x51mm cartridge's high pressures (up to 123,000 PSI with suppressor) and recoil comparable to a .308, making it difficult to control on full-auto. Experts suggest this move away from intermediate cartridges ignores lessons learned from Vietnam and may lead to limited adoption.

Chapters

  1. 00:06Introduction to M7 Program
  2. 00:17XM5 to XM7 Designation Change
  3. 00:48Critique of M7 Program
  4. 01:13Problems with M855A1 Ammunition
  5. 01:44M855A1 Pressure and Effects
  6. 02:18M855A1 Impact on Programs
  7. 02:42Vietnam Lessons: M14 vs. AK-47
  8. 03:52M7: Full Power Battle Cartridge
  9. 04:00M7 Specifications and Recoil
  10. 04:23M7 Ammunition Pressures
  11. 04:53Cost of the M7 System
  12. 05:05Impracticality for Long-Range Engagements
  13. 05:38M7's Potential Fate (AN94 Comparison)
  14. 06:06NGSW Program Issues
  15. 06:1660 Years of M16/M4 Evolution
  16. 06:29Attempting One Rifle for All Environments
  17. 06:49Modern Warfare Engagement Distances
  18. 07:15Alternative Solutions: AR-10 & 6.8 SPC
  19. 07:40Alternative: Sig Light in 6.8 SPC
  20. 08:10SCAR Program Comparison
  21. 08:40M7's Likely Combat Performance
  22. 08:59NGSW Automatic Weapon Concerns
  23. 09:25M4's Longevity
  24. 09:35Peak of Development History
  25. 09:54Metallic Cartridge Limitations
  26. 10:03Future M16/M4 Improvements
  27. 10:10Operating System Evolution
  28. 10:37Material Changes in Firearms
  29. 10:53M4's Continued Relevance
  30. 10:57Future M4 Caliber Variants
  31. 11:19M4 Platform Evolution
  32. 11:47Final Opinion on M7
  33. 12:06User Feedback on M7
  34. 12:29Limited Access to M7
  35. 12:32Sig's High-Priced M7 Package
  36. 12:44Speaker's Industry Experience
  37. 12:58Conclusion and Call to Action

Frequently Asked Questions

Why was the US military's Next Generation Service Weapon designation changed from XM5 to XM7?

The designation was changed from XM5 to XM7 to avoid confusion with Colt's M5 rifle line. However, the speaker argues this was unnecessary as Colt's M5 designation was an internal model number unrelated to any US government M5 rifle.

What are the main criticisms of the M7 rifle and its 6.8x51mm cartridge?

The M7 is criticized for using a full-power cartridge with extremely high pressures (up to 123,000 PSI with a suppressor), leading to recoil comparable to a .308, making it difficult to control on full-auto and potentially compromising weapon lifespan.

How does the M7 program compare to historical US military rifle programs?

The speaker compares the M7 to the M14, arguing it's a step back towards full-power cartridges unsuitable for modern close-range engagements, unlike the M16/M4 which successfully adopted intermediate cartridges. He also notes past failed attempts to replace the M4 platform.

What are the potential long-term implications for the M7 rifle?

The speaker predicts the M7 will have a limited adoption, similar to the AN94 or SCAR-Light, due to its impracticality, cost, and controllability issues in combat. He believes soldiers may revert to their M4 carbines.

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