M14

The M14 was designed in 1954 but didnt go into use until 1957. It was developed to replace four different weapons systems-- the M1 Garand, M1 Carbine, M3 "Grease Gun" and the M1918 Browning Automatic Rifle. It was believed that it would make troops more effective because it would take the place of four different weapons. This was an impossible task since it could not replace all the weapons it was then designed to replace the M1 rifle which it successfuly did.

The M14 weighs 4.5 kg (9.9 lb) it is 1,118 mm (44 in) long and has a barrel lenght of 559 mm (22 in) It is a gas opperated rotating bolt rifle. It uses 7.62 x 51mm NATO cartridges and its rate of fire is 700-750 rounds per minute. It has an effective range of 460m (500 yd) or 800+ m (875 yd) with optics. Various Special Operations Forces use the M14 includint the US NAVY SEALS who use the M14 as an infantry, marksman and sniper rifle. Durring the Vietnam War SEALS would modify M14's and use them as sniping rifles.

The United States Air Force Honor Guard use the M14 for 3-volley salutes at military funerals.

more information comming soon!