The 5.56 x 45mm - 1986 - 1989 - A Chronology of Development (Part 10) - By Daniel Watters

The Gunperson's Authoritative Internet Information Resource.TGZ is hosted by TCMi Links 'n' Stuff The Gun Zone 5.56mm 'Prologue' Part Ten... 5.56mm 1957-1962 5.56mm 1963-1964 5.56mm 1965-1966 5.56mm 1967 5.56mm 1968-1969 The 5.56 X 45mm: 1986-1989 A Chronology of Development by Daniel Watters 1986... The HEL conducts soldier-machine interface design studies on the Enhanced M16A2. Picatinny conducts new trials for alternative case material blanks. Candidates include the aluminum XM941 by Omark and plastic cased variants from Action Manufacturing and Winchester. After a year of testing, none are adopted. The USAIS publishes the paper "Small Arms Strategy 2000" (SAS 2000). Despite the ACR program's current push for caseless, duplex, and fléchette ammunition, SAS-2000 proposes that the infantry rifle has already reached its technological peak. The only way to increase the hit/kill probability of the infantryman will be to introduce individual weapons that fire explosive/fragmentation warheads. A family of three weapons is proposed: an advanced personal defense weapon (90 percent hit probability at 25 meters), an advanced individual combat weapon, and an advanced crew-served weapon. Admittedly, this is less of a stretch than the "Future Alternatives Assessment" which indicates a need to investigate the application of directed energy (DE) and electromagnetic (EM) technology for individual weapons. The UK purchases 400 M16A1 for Belize troops. North Yemen acquires six M16A2 for evaluation. New Zealand adopts the Steyr AUG, intending to purchase Australian production rifles. FAMAE of Chile begins licensed production of the SIG SG540 and SG543. SIG introduces the SG551 carbine. FFV begins licensed production of the FN FNC (Ak5). 5.56mm 1970-1973 5.56mm 1974-1979 5.56mm 1980-1985 5.56mm 1986-1989 5.56mm 1990-1994 5.56mm 1995-1999 5.56mm 2000-2001 5.56mm 2002-2003 5.56mm 2004 5.56mm 2005 5.56mm 2006 5.56mm 2007 5.56mm 2008 5.56mm 2009 5.56mm Propellant 5.56mm FAQ - v1.14 5.56mm v. .223 Rem Fléchette / SPIW Multiplex / SALVO Green Ammo TGZ Blog Daniel Watters' suggested ARES introduces the LMG-1 (AKA: the Stoner 86) as a potential sales competitor to the M249 SAW. Production of the CETME Model L rifle and Model LC carbine begins. Panama receives Type 65 rifles from Taiwan. The USAIB conducts testing of the XM9 Multipurpose Bayonet System. Winter: British Royal Marines training in Norway experience a variety of problems with the L85A1 during troop trials. Besides functioning issues, at least one L85A1 discharges when dropped. The rifles are recalled to replace the trigger and trigger spring. The recall/upgrade spans roughly three months. January: Colt employees go on strike. The previous union contract had run out 10 months earlier. The strike ultimately lasts more than four years. AMCCOM awards $188,000 and $863,000 contracts to Colt related to the M16. AMCCOM awards a $753,000 delivery order to FN related to M249 RDT&E. AMCCOM also deallocates $232,000 in a contract modification related to the M249. February: The ARDC files an industry-wide solicitation for ACR candidate submissions. Colt delivers 40 XM4 carbines to Picatinny. The carbines are not yet equipped with the double heat shield handguards. The Mellonics Systems Development Division based at Fort Benning publishes "Analysis of M16A2 Rifle Characteristics and Recommended Improvements." It is in many ways a rehash of their December 1982 "Memorandum of Understanding." The characteristics of the M16A2 rifle developed by the Marine Corps were analyzed to determine what impact the new rifle's features would have on Army marksmanship training and on combat effectiveness. It was found that use of the M16A2 rifle by the US Army would be extremely problematic, due in part to the vast differences between the marksmanship training philosophies of the Army and the Marine Corps. Numerous recommendations are presented, which could result in simplified training and improved combat performance if adopted. AMCCOM awards a $95,000 contract to FN Manufacturing, Inc. (FNMI) related to the M16. (FNMI is FN's facility located in Columbia, SC. It was created to support production of the 7.62mm M240 (MAG58) for use with the M1 Abrams tank.) syllabus The Black Rifle by R. Blake Stevens and Edward C. Ezell. Second Edition. Collector Grade Publications, Toronto, Ontario, 1992. The Great Rifle Controversy by Edward C. Ezell. Stackpole Books, Harrisburg, PA, 1984. The M16 Controversies by Thomas L. McNaugher. Praeger Publishers, New York, NY, 1984. The History and Development of the M16 Rifle and its Cartridge by David R. Hughes. Armory Publications, Oceanside, CA, 1990. The SPIW: The Deadliest Weapon that Never Was by R. Blake Stevens and Edward C. Ezell. Collector Grade Publications, Toronto, Ontario, 1985. Black Rifle II: The M16 into the 21st Century by Christopher R. Bartocci. Collector Grade Publications, Cobourg, Ontario, 2004. The Last Enfield - SA80: The Reluctant Rifle by Steve Raw. Collector Grade Publications, Cobourg, Ontario, 2003. More by Daniel... Other of Watters' learned works-inprogress for TGZ include A Brief History of Fléchette and Project SPIW, as well as .30 Carbine Wildcats and Miniguns and the Movies. Valued E-mail Utility All E-mail to TGZ is screened by MailWasher Pro for spam and viruses. For a free trial download, click here. Stop unwanted E-mail before it reaches your machine. Strongest recommendation. Document History Publication: 12/10/1998 Last Revised: 05/17/2009 158. and Engineering Center (ARDEC). Beretta files an US patent application for the lockwork mechanism of the AR70/90. Picatinny's ARDC is renamed the Armament Research. but certain parties demanded that any potential replacement accept the mounting of a bayonet. Marines from the Foreign Materiel Acquisition and Exploitation unit assist in testing.176 rifles. TECOM starts the XM4 Carbine program with a direct entry into Development Test / Operational Test II.000 contract to Colt related to the M16. Loren Brunton files another patent application for the design of the M16A2 upper receiver. AMCCOM also deallocates $55.000 contracts to FNMI related to the M16.000 from a delivery order related to the M16 and M203. AMCCOM awards $1. AMCCOM awards a $2. Development. Colt makes delivery of double heat shield handguards for the XM4 under evaluation. Originally. .359.731 for combat use and 107. Picatinny awards a $33. totaling 100. AMCCOM awards a $47. which incorporates an improved case deflector.859. This includes 216.000 contract to Okay Industries Inc. under the leadership of MAJ Jack Muth.314.000 contract modification to Colt for the XM4. the Colt Commando was considered to be an acceptable replacement by the USMC Development Center. Pier G. The USMC Firepower Division.686 for training. AMCCOM awards a $9.000 contract modification to Colt related to the M16.000 delivery order to FN related to M249 RDT&E. The testing is with the goal of issuing the XM4 to the USMC's Special Operations Capable (SOC) units then under development. later acquires seven XM4 from the Army.240. The only compact shoulder weapons authorized for use by Force Recon to this point has been the M3A1 SMG (bolstered by very unofficial use of XM177E2). This is possible with the XM4.000 and $3. The US Army issues a Request for Proposal (RFP) for M249 belt boxes. April: AMCCOM awards a $997.March: The US Army announces their first major order for the M16A2. 169. Firing trials restart for Phase C of British Ordnance Board Trials. The military specification for M856 Tracer.000 delivery orders related to the M16 and M203. Summer: Diemaco's Phil O'Dell and Ian Andersen visit Colt to . AMCCOM awards a new $27.000 contract modification to Colt related to the M16.000 contract modification to Parsons Precision Products.000.000 contract modification related to M249 RDT&E. is revised to MIL-C-63990B(AR).000 contract to Cooper Industries Inc.000 contract modifications to Colt related to the M16 for FMS. AMCCOM awards a $2. AMCCOM deallocates $611. AMCCOM awards a $6. May: AMCCOM awards $183. The BRL publishes "Candidate Muzzle Devices for the Improved M16.000 contract modifications to HK for ACR RDT&E. Picatinny awards $900.000 and $125.000 contract modification to FN related to M249 RDT&E. Pier G. MIL-C-63990A(AR).400. HK's Horst Jakubaschk and Erich Weisser receive US Patent #4.000 delivery order to FN related to M249 RDT&E.587. AMCCOM also awards $704." Among the devices tested are the muzzle brakes of the AK74 and AKS-74U. The next day.000 contract to Sanchez Enterprises. AMCCOM awards a $44. AMCCOM awards a $25. Steyr's Ulrich Zedrosser files an US patent application for a folding cocking handle for the Steyr AUG.000 delivery order to FN related to the M249. The contract has been terminated for default.000 and $276. AMCCOM also awards a $727.AMCCOM fields a Request for Deviation on the M16A1. Beretta files an US patent application for the detachable carry handle/rear sight for the AR70/90 family.000 and $1." AMCCOM awards a $666.520.756 titled "Magazine for a Small Arm.000 in a contract modification to Sanchez Enterprises Inc. The second order is for FMS. June: AMCCOM awards a $5. FN begins work on what is to be become their P90 PDW. Ketron.000 contract modification to HK for ACR RDT&E." An Interim Report of SA80 troop trials is published. and $828.. Diemaco has been considering the possibility of producing the design in a joint effort. HK.000 to ARES." Picatinny awards a $300. AMCCOM awards a $6. as it already has experience in producing the item. . the contract officer awards the belt box contract to Proll Molding Co. Picatinny awards $798. US Army receives proposals for the M249 belt box solicitation. the contract officer for the RFP is notified that production of belted 5.000 to Steyr. The latter is reportedly used unmodified with sabots and in a necked-down format.56mm NATO ammo is in danger of being stopped at Lake City.7x28mm cartridge starts with the loading of the polymer core SS90 projectile in various commercial cartridges such as the .000 contract modification to FN related to the M249.30 Carbine. Lake City lacks sufficient belt boxes to pack the ammunition. This clears the way for operational testing by the SEALs. Inc.235.000 to AAI. submits "Personnel Degradation: Wounding by Flechettes. and Steyr. $598. They eventually decide to do so. $452. In response. Colt.236 titled "Rifle Receiver. July: The AMSAA publishes "A Limited Evaluation of the BurstFire Performance of the M16A1 Rifle With AK-74 Muzzle Brake Compensator. ARES. under contract to the BRL." August: Loren Brunton receives US Patent #D285.22 Hornet and the .000 to MDHC for ACR RDT&E. Initial development of the companion 5.000 contract to Colt related to the M249. September: ACR Phase I contracts are awarded to AAI.examine a Henry Tatro-designed M16-LMG.000 and $115. Naval Weapons Support Center-Crane's Weapons Department issues a safety statement for the Ultimax 100.22 LR adaptor for the SA80. AMCCOM awards $980. Part of the order is for FMS. Aberdeen awards a $208. The British discontinue work with the Saco . Four days later.000 delivery orders to Colt related to the M16 for FMS. McDonnell Douglas Helicopter Company (MDHC). The British ITDU evaluates the HK ." The Army Research Institute for the Behavioral and Social Sciences publishes the report "Development of a Stadiametric Ranging Device for the M203 Grenade Launcher. In response. Daylight Plastics alleges that a shortfall of M249 belt boxes will not be experienced. for M249 belt boxes and the cancellation of the original solicitation. The GAO justifies this since the original contract being protested was canceled. files a GAO protest over the US Army's award to Proll Molding Co. Two days later. (Production is licensed to Buck Knives. the Army then issues a sole source solicitation and award to Proll Molding for the same items. the GAO denies Daylight Plastics's protest of the US Army's August award to Proll Molding." A prototype stadiametric ranging device that used hole sizes scaled to each of 10 .615. Habbe receives US Patent #4. The Canadians begin development of a flat-top C7. Fall: The US Government announces its intent to supply 300 reconditioned M16A1 to Papua New Guinea. The Army justifies the sole source solicitation and award on the account of the urgent need to make deliveries of belt boxes to Lake City by November 30.103.2: M16A2 Rifle Signature Suppression Project.619. if at all.Naval Weapons Support Center-Crane publishes "Final Report for Joint Services Small Arms Program 6. the Army cancels Proll Molding's contract. Beretta receives US Patent #4.203 titled "Armor Piercing Small Caliber Projectile.22 LR adaptor for the SA80." The US Army adopts the Dynamit Nobel (DAG) M862 Plastic Training Ammunition along with the required M2 Practice Bolt for the M16A2. Phobris is awarded a contract for the new M9 Bayonet. for M249 belt boxes. Daylight Plastics has learned that Proll Molding's quoted prices were significantly higher than its own. Inc." AMCCOM awards a $3. AMCCOM deallocates $50.000 contract to La Belle Industries Inc. Inc.) Daylight Plastics.134 titled "Retaining Mechanism for Rifle Magazines. However.000 in a contract modification to Parsons Precision Products. Pier G. October: Olin's Randall G. Daylight Plastics. until March 1987 and not November 1986 as the Army had suggested. files a GAO protest over the US Army's September sole-source award to Proll Molding Co. 000 contract modification to Colt for ACR RDT&E. Diemaco conducts a function and tolerance study of the M16-LMG's firing mechanism. (More recent sources indicate that the 5. and that the cartridge completed its final development in 1987.man-sized targets located between 50 and 350m from the firer. Range estimates with the unaided eye typically overestimated the range. News of Chinese SCHV cartridge research is leaked to the West through interviews with Soldier of Fortune magazine. is revised to MIL-R-63997B(AR). No further details are given concerning the ammunition or host weapons. Colt has sent one of their prototypes for reference.047.. FN has delivered only 11. Picatinny awards a $503.000 contract modification to Colt related to the M16.8x42mm cartridge is reported to be the early favorite. AMCCOM awards a $6. The Daewoo K2 enters service with the South Korean Army. The magnitude of range estimation errors was smaller and less variable when the devices were used as opposed to the unaided eye. The US Army Cold Regions Test Center conducts arctic testing on the M249.000 Colt Model 727. while those using the devices typically underestimated. AMCCOM awards a $137. a 5.) HK announces development of a LMG variant of their G11 rifle. ranging from 5. November: US Army frontline units receive their first M16A2. 1987. Abu Dhabi (UAE) orders 20. The British ITDU conducts endurance and reliability trials of SA80 .000 due under its current contract with the US Army.628 M249 belt boxes of the 48. MIL-R63997A(AR). Like .2 to 6. While at least 50 cartridge configurations have been examined.22 LR adaptors.000 delivery order to FN related to the M249.2mm..8x42mm was chosen as early as 1979. AMCCOM awards a $1. December: The military specification for the M16A2 rifle. Further delays are anticipated due to a labor strike at FN.490.000 contract to FNMI related to the M16. which allows the grenade launcher to be fitted to a wider variety of weapons. The British ITDU evaluates the SAWES Projector for the SA80. The British MOD expresses interest in the Beta C-Mag for use with the SA80.000 contract to FNMI related to the M16. and testing begins within the year. the LMG will be chambered for the 4. Kurak and Bernard White. AMCCOM awards a $1. (The M203PI's design is alternately credited to Joseph C.) January: AMCCOM awards a $120. the pages are filled with a litany of parts failures. Picatinny awards a $50. L2A2. the British equivalent to MILES. the designer of the Desert Eagle pistol. The resulting rifles are named the Wieger. and . HK.000 contract modification to Colt for FMS.000 contract modification to Colt related to the M16. The Full Acceptance Meeting for the SA80 is postponed from July 1987 until October 1987. Colt.the parent rifle. The SAWES unit is a laser training system. March: ACR Phase II contracts are awarded to AAI.7x33mm DM11 caseless cartridge. February: Colt begins working with a FATS simulator to test different sighting systems for their ACR. The British approve an improved version of L2A1 Ball as the Cartridge.000 contract modification to AAI for ACR caseless ammunition RDT&E.56mm Kalashnikov-type rifle. Ecuador receives delivery of Steyr AUG. VEB Kombinat Spezialtechnik Dresden and IMES give development order to SW&H for creation of a MPiKMS-74 variant in 5. AMCCOM also awards a $150. The final report from the SA80 troop trials is published.383. R/M Equipment Company introduces the M203PI (Product Improved). Picatinny awards a $37. The results are not positive.56mm This is in response to India's desire for a 5.000 contract modification to Steyr for ACR RDT&E. The SADF adopts the R5 carbine. Problems are subsequently found in the chrome plating of the barrels. Ball. Inc.000 delivery order to FN related to the M249. ANGLICO. Royal Ordnance wins the second MOD contract for production of 150. and the matter is dropped until the Army ultimately adopts the weapon. In addition.000 contract modification to Colt. is issued. the USMC Comptroller refuses to allow the XM4's inclusion in the small arms budget.000 additional L85/L86-weapons. Unfortunately. Picatinny is officially redesignated as an Arsenal. and a $138. Afterwards.000 contract modification to Steyr. they evaluate an articulated recoil rod assembly for the SA80.000 contract modification to MDHC for ACR RDT&E. Diemaco completes development of the M16-LMG. and it runs endurance trials of the . The USMC is the first to standardize the XM4. The GAO denies Daylight Plastics.000 contract modification to AAI. The House Committee on Armed Services requests that the GAO review South Korea's compliance with its Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the United States on coproducing the M16 rifle. The ITDU also investigates zero retention of the SUSAT when in mounted in different positions.151.Steyr. the M3A1 are replaced by HK MP5N received from the US Navy. procurement funds for the Marines' carbines are killed during Congressional review for four consecutive years in a row. for M249 belt boxes.000 contract modification to ARES. In the mean time. MIL-C-70599(AR). Phrobis III's Charles A. a $171. Picatinny ultimately awards a $300. A proposal has been put forward that the XM4 replace all of the pistols in the Marine Infantry Battalions as well as being used by Force Recon. a $166. AMCCOM awards a $3. a $198. The British ITDU has a busy month. Colt conducts live-fire testing with the ACR to confirm the FATS testing results from the previous month. April: The XM4 carbine's military specification. ARES and MDHC appeal the decision. They investigate the effect on zero of different firing positions with the LSW.22 LR adaptors' plastic parts. and others. Finn files a patent application for the design of the M9 Bayonet. . FN delivers the TDP for an improved M249.'s protest of the US Army's September 1986 sole source award to Proll Molding Co. " May: The military specification for M862 Plastic Practice Ball. on behalf of Beta Co.270. L. while firing from the Firing Port Weapon. receives US Patent #4. The GAO denies Daylight Plastics." Picatinny awards a $472. The results show the stoppage problem was caused by faulty magazines..The design of the M16-LMG is frozen at Colt to allow Diemaco to produce 12 pre-production units.22 caliber rimfire blank system as a substitute for the standard 5. . These prototypes are sent to Colt for further testing during the summer.663.658.700 titled "Drum Magazine.000 contract modification to Colt for ACR RDT&E. ARDEC's Close Combat Armaments Center publishes the report "Caliber . were obtained to determine if excessive spring surge was causing a stoppage problem during testing at Aberdeen. The British MOD allows BAe to reconsider the recent L85/L86 contract. Results of the tests show there was no excessive magazine spring surge in the 30-round magazine for the M16A1 when firing from the M231 Firing Port Weapon. Further efforts to refine the configuration for competitive procurement and fielding will be performed. Inc. Colt's Henry Tatro receives US Patent #4.875 titled "Rifle Handguard Assembly Having Outer Shell with Outer and Inner Liners. James Sullivan." Time displacement records of the magazine spring for the M16A1. is amended. Aberdeen's BRL publishes the report "Dynamic Tests of the 30Round Magazine for the M16A1 While Firing from the M231 Firing Port Weapon.000 contract modification to FNMI related to the M16. AMCCOM awards a $2. British Aerospace (BAe) purchases Royal Ordnance (RO).56mm M200 blank cartridge in the M16 rifles. Compatibility of the prototype rimfire blank system in the M16 rifles was firmly established and the possibility of a substantial cost savings realized.22 Rimfire Blank System for M16 Rifles." This study successfully demonstrates the use of a .'s appeal of the GAO's decision of the previous month. DODC-70463(AR). The British ITDU test a bipod retaining clip for the LSW in an attempt to solve ongoing problems with the bipod swinging loose at inappropriate times. files a patent application for the mounting system design of the M203PI.000 in a contract modification related to M249 RDT&E.000 contract modification to AAI for ACR RDT&E. Kurak." The British ITDU investigates SA80 zero distribution and reassesses the need for a left-hand SA80 family.663. Picatinny awards a $387.000 contract modification to Steyr for ACR RDT&E. is amended.Picatinny awards a $434.000 delivery order to FN related to M249 RDT&E. The average muzzle velocity for the M196 ammunition loaded with ball and IMR type propellants is about 914 m/s. AK-74 Rifle and Type PS Ball Cartridge. during firing of the test rounds. June: Aberdeen's BRL publishes "Kinematic Analysis of the M231 Firing Port Weapon.45 X 45 MM." The firing characteristics of a new M231 Firing Port Weapon were checked while firing M196 ammunition loaded with ball and IMR type propellants.56mm Reference cartridges. The average rate of fire for the M196 ammunition loaded with ball propellant is about 1255 rds/min which is about 50 rds/min higher than the average rate of fire for the M196 ammunition with IMR type propellant.878 titled "Removable Handle with Auxiliary Sights for Transporting Automatic Rifles. on behalf of R/M Equipment. the ITDU conducts compatibility trials of the SAWES Projector with the SA80 during full-automatic fire. . July: AMCCOM awards a $248. Beretta receives US Patent #4. is amended for the second time. The military specification for the M203 grenade launcher. Optrons. In addition. MIL-L45935A. AMCCOM also deallocates $537. and tests . Displacement versus time of the bolt carrier and the striker were measured using electro-optical displacement followers. The British ITDU evaluates a modified magazine release catch for the SA80. AMSAA publishes "An Evaluation of the Soviet 5. Joseph C. A complete kinematic study was also made on a new lubricated weapon while firing M196 ammunition loaded with ball and IMR type propellants. MIL-C46397C(AR)." Pier G.22 LR adaptors with tracers. Pressure versus time in the bolt cavity was measured using a Kistler 601H Pressure Gage during firing of the test rounds. Measurements of muzzle velocity and rate of fire were made during these tests. The military specification for 5. 000 contract to Colt related to the M249. this was helped along by the proposed issue of spare bolts and firing pins. Inc. failed to inform the Army about such concerns. has been consulted in this process. AMCCOM also deallocates $841. Richard H. August: In a letter to Secretary of Defense Caspar W.422 MRBF. the IW posts a 28.442 MRBF. Weinberger. and did not conduct any independent tests of the rifles. Picatinny awards a $255. BAe agrees to accept the L85/L86 contract only if production is transferred from RSAF Enfield to RO's Nottingham facility. The previous model was prone to accidentally engage/disengage when dropped. these parts would allow certain "critical" failures to be downgraded (and thus not counted) as the shooter would theoretically be able repair the weapon in the field. finally surpassing the GSR 3518 requirement. HK's Rudolf Brandl and Heinz Matt receive US Patent #4. Rep. In response. While never actually issued. Gene Stoner files a patent application for a telescoped cartridge similar in design to that used in ARES' AIWS. the creative accounting continues unabated. British armorers receive an improved safety plunger for retrofit to the SA80. Baker (R-LA) alleges that DOD investigators have been warned of the possibility of serious defects in the M16A2.681. However.000 contract modification to AAI for ACR RDT&E.The Canadians seal the dimensions for their flat-top receiver rail design. Richard Swan of ARMS. Aberdeen awards a $166. The performance is worse yet than the Phase B results. The IW turns in 69 MRBS and the LSW fails yet again to 48 MRBS. Still.019 titled "Magazine for Automatic Weapons.000 in a contract modification to FN related to the M249. Steyr's Ulrich Zedrosser files an US patent application for the design of the Steyr ACR. the LSW achieves 8. an Army spokesman admits that the AMC has been working with Colt on two issues. Under the same method. Phase C of British Ordnance Board Trials ends for the IW/LSW. . With only the most severe stoppages/failures counted during the endurance phase alone." Steyr's Ulrich Zedrosser files an US patent application for an early variation of telescoped cartridge design used by the Steyr ACR's SCF cartridge. Pier G.000 contract modification to Parsons Precision Products. .6 Grain Fléchette.000 contract modification to ARES for ACR RDT&E." Steyr's Ulrich Zedrosser receives US Patent #4.000 contract modification to AAI for ACR caseless ammunition RDT&E." The first firing prototypes of the FN P90 are tested. Gene Stoner files a patent application for the design of the ARES LMG (AKA: Stoner 86). Picatinny awards a $670. AMCCOM awards a $74." Picatinny awards a $68.693.691. Pier G. British armorers receive a magazine catch shroud for retrofit to the SA80.144 titled "Cocking Slide for Automatic Hand Firearms.697.152. the shrouds are meant to prevent accidental release of the magazine.224. Beretta receives US Patent #4. Colt publishes the report "XM4 Carbine Development Program. Intended to be glued in place. Picatinny awards a $1. Improved to More Safely Accommodate Left Handed Shooters." The Full Acceptance Meeting for the SA80 is held.000 contract modification to MDHC for ACR RDT&E. Beretta receives US Patent #4.169 titled "Control Device for Rapid Firing Particularly Automatic Weapons.000 contract to Okay Industries Inc.September: AMCCOM awards a $48. They announce that ARES and MDHC have both been reinstated in the ACR program. Aberdeen's BRL releases the memorandum report "Injury to Personnel from the Partial Penetration of a 19." Loren Brunton receives US Patent #4.615 titled "M16 Rifle." October: ARDEC's ACR Project Office conducts the third quarterly review meeting for ACR Phase II. AMCCOM awards a $267.702.000 delivery order to Colt related to the M16.495 titled "Tripping Mechanism for the Conversion Closed-Bolt Automatic Rifles to OpenBolt Ones. The British ITDU publishes a summary of SUSAT trials ranging from 1975 to 1987. surrounded on either side by compartments filed with propellant. Diemaco is responsible for the upper assembly. some of the fire control parts. and the hydraulic buffer. However. the "Lockless" system uses a plastic-cased cartridge. Picatinny awards a $643. The drawback of this system is that the amount of propellant needed is quite high. Picatinny awards a $348.000 contract modification to Steyr for ACR RDT&E. this is scaled back to multiplex fléchette loadings. Colt makes the decision to forego 2 and 3 round burst devices in favor of fullautomatic fire.000 contract modification to Colt related to the M16.November: AMCCOM awards a $62. L. Steyr's Ulrich Zedrosser files an US patent application for the annular primer design used by the Steyr ACR's SCF cartridge. The projectile(s) are set in the center of the box.56mm NATO. which now comprised the MDHC division. Colt is responsible for the lower receiver." due to its flat. and the chiclets feed into the chamber through a slot through the side of the barrel. but due to high recoil. During an In-Process Review of the ACR project. December: AMCCOM awards a $132. and final testing. rectangular box profile.000 contract modification to AAI for ACR RDT&E. Picatinny awards a $693. final assembly. . James Sullivan is hired to design the weapon. the "Lockless" cartridge is described as a "chiclet. The spent case is pushed out the opposite side as the next cartridge slides into the chamber. based on Hughes' 1970s-era "Lockless" breech design. (McDonnell Douglas has earlier bought out Hughes' helicopter and armament interests. MDHC begins development of their Advanced Individual Weapon System (AIWS). Initial work begins on duplex and triplex loadings of conventional projectiles. Late: Diemaco and Colt begin series production of the M16-LMG.5 times that of the 5. The weapon's barrel is closed off at the breech end. unlike the triangular Dardick Tround.000 contract modification to Colt for ACR RDT&E. A pressure sleeve then closes over the open chamber's sides before the round is fired.000 contract modification to Colt for maintenance and repair. in this case nearly 3. This starts with a . The INSAS LMG enters user trials.) Evoking comparisons to H&R's 1962 SPIW entry.42 caliber five fléchette load. Diemaco begins production of flat-top upper receivers. The proposed rail interface should allow for multiple positions to accommodate different optics' individual eye relief. Papua New Guinea purchases 5. 1988. They also introduce a proposed SA80 Carbine.. Winchester and the United States Ammunition Company.. CIS introduces the SR88. Inc.'s Richard Swan writes the JSSAP office proposing that a standard rail interface be developed to replace the variety of existing mounting blocks for different weapons. The CETME Model L and LC enter Spanish military service.000 Australian-made AUG. Candidates include an aluminum-cased cartridge from Omark and plastic cartridges from Federal. a straight-pull cadet rifle conversion of the L85A1 rifle. a product improved SAR80. The AMC completes the system fielding of the M16A2.338 caliber sabot. the Wieger 940 system is rushed into production. The US Army Cold Regions Test Center continues arctic testing of the M249. The British ITDU begins testing of the "Low Tech Sound Suppressor" from List Precision Engineering.and is eventually whittled back to four and then three fléchette loaded in a . With the successful conclusion of testing. quick attachment/detachment of optics without loss of zero. FFV production Ak5 (FN FNC) enter Swedish military service. Testing resumes for the Wieger rifle. In addition. and capable of withstanding the recoil of heavy crew served weapons. ARMS. RO introduces the L98A1. Aberdeen begins trials for the XM858 short-range training cartridge. . Unlike the 1984 prototype. The US Navy SEALs begin issue of the Colt RO727 carbine. (Bert List was responsible for the integral suppressor designs of the De Lisle Carbine and the Sterling L34A1 SMG.) Steyr's Ulrich Zedrosser files multiple US patent applications for the design of the Steyr ACR. this model is just long enough to incorporate a vertical foregrip ahead of the trigger guard. an underbarrel grenade launcher for the L85A1. they introduce the 40mm Enfield Close Assault Weapon (ENCAW). Ireland adopts the Steyr AUG. and the SIG SG550. Initial efforts are centered around a 5. The US Army Environmental Hygiene Agency publishes "Health Hazard Assessment Report on the Enhanced M16A2 Rifle Optical Sight. This is intended for a future sniper rifle and LMG. The AUG has beaten out the Beretta AR70/90.000 contract modification to MDHC for ACR RDT&E.30 Luger) case necked down. based on the 7. a PDW. the IMI Galil. HK introduces camouflaged variants of the HK 33 and GR3. the Enfield L85A1.63x25mm Mauser (. ARDEC's ACR Project Office conducts the fourth quarterly review meeting for ACR Phase II.Chinese engineers begin development of a long range. apparently based on the 7. Colt's testing of Reed Knight's muzzle brake/compensator (MBC) assembly indicates a successful decrease in recoil combined with a 15 to 20 decibel reduction in muzzle blast.7x25mm cartridge. Picatinny awards a $449. the FAMAS. and a small assault rifle. the FN FNC. C-suffix rifles possess a woodland camo scheme while S-suffix rifles are finished in a desert scheme. the HK G41.65x21mm Luger (. the Colt M16A2. heavy bullet loading for the 5.8x42mm cartridge.30 Mauser) case necked down. The Armes de Défense Rapprochée (ADR) is envisioned as a family of three weapons: a pistol. with the LSW as the XL86E2. redacted version is released three months later. not to be confused with the recent HK-modified L85A2/L86A2. To complicate matters. Besides standard production L85A1 and L86A1." An unclassified. two different modification packages for the IW/LSW are tested. the two alternative build standards are labeled A2 and A3. The British begin Environmental User Trials for the SA80.7x22mm cartridge. GIAT of France begins work on a PDW cartridge and weapon." January: The GAO publishes a classified report titled "US-Korea co-production: A Review of the M16 Rifle Program. Parts modified for the A2 and A3 include the following: Bolt Magazine Catch Trigger return spring . RSAF Enfield labels the prototype IW as XL85E2 and XL85E3. It appears that later prototypes are chambered for a 5. deliveries have been made of the ELCAN optic and the new 7-position collapsible buttstock. February: During an In-Process Review of the ACR project. Guatemala begins negotiations with Colt for a purchase of M16.739. MIL-R-63997B(AR). Steyr's Ulrich Zedrosser receives US Patent #4. Aberdeen awards a $357. The HK G11 enters technical trials in West Germany.570 titled "Firearm.000 contract modification to AAI for ACR RDT&E. Picatinny awards a $157. The military specification for the M16A2 rifle.000 contract modification to Colt related to the M249.235. March: AMCCOM awards a $31. the A3 adds an extra recoil spring and uses a lightened bolt carrier.733.Safety plunger Recoil spring Gas plug Gas port Gas cylinder Gas piston Piston spring Cocking handle Ejection port dust cover In addition.000 contract modification to Colt related to the M16." April: Colt concentrates their ACR program on recoil control. Colt decides to use Olin's full-caliber duplex cartridge and adopt Reed Knight's MBC for use with their ACR. In addition. receives US Patent #4. AMCCOM awards a $1. Kurak.000 contract modification to FNMI related to the M16. is amended." . tweaking the design of their hydraulic buffer assembly.489 titled "Apparatus for Reconfiguring Automatic Rifle to Include Grenade Launching Function. Joseph C. on behalf of R/M Equipment. 000 contract modification to HK. firing AIWS prototype. Two break after a mere four rounds have been fired. AMCCOM awards a $99.000 contract modifications to Colt.AMCCOM awards a $1. Picatinny awards $104.000 delivery order to Colt related to the M16 for FMS. The cartridges feed upwards from the magazine into the chamber. The HK G11 receives its Safety Certification. MIL-R45587A. but all of the rifles still show problems in dirty conditions.593. Spent casings are pushed out through the top of the weapon as the next cartridge slides into place.000 and $700.000 contract modification to Steyr. The new bolts prove to be problematic as several fail during use. June: MDHC is dropped from the ACR program. is validated.22 rifle cartridge.56mm conventional ammunition. The HK G11 enters troop trials in West Germany. The military specifications for the M199 and M232 Dummy Cartridges are canceled. and a $700. .56mm plastic training ammunition." This study compares the relative amounts of airborne lead produced by the M16 rifle firing the M193 standard M16 5. HK's Rudolf Brandl and Heinz Matt file an US patent application for the linkless ammunition feed system for the HK 73. The final version is semi-automatic with a 10 round side-mounted magazine. and the conventional caliber . The military specification for the M16 and M16A1 rifles. the M862 5.000 contract modification to AAI for ACR RDT&E. May: AMCCOM issues an open solicitation for M16A2 construction over a five-year contract. a $500. a $800. July: The Army Biomedical Research and Development Lab publishes the report "Comparison of Particulate Lead Levels for Different Ammunition Types Used with the M16 Rifle. MDHC fabricates their first complete. The British end Environmental User Trials for the SA80. The A2 standard is found to be the most reliable. ACR Phase III contracts are awarded. Both breech and breech plus muzzle lead emissions were determined for each type of ammunition.000 contract modification to FNMI related to the M16. and have fired a fully functional breech and loading system.000 SAW. Picatinny awards a $989.Picatinny awards a $532.000 in a contract modification to FNMI related to the M16. Picatinny awards a $269. for replacement M16A2 lower receivers.000 to FNMI for M16A2 production. Picatinny awards a $200.961 rifles. Picatinny awards a $400.442. HK has produced a working hardware model of the ammunition feed system.000 contract modification to MDHC for ACR RDT&E. and feed from a 300 round magazine located in the butt. It is the initial order of a multi-year contract worth $112.000 contract modification to Steyr for ACR RDT&E.000 contract to Balimoy Mfg. August: Aberdeen awards a $74. They are conducting live fire . Steyr's Ulrich Zedrosser receives US Patent #4.652.264.000 to FNMI for M249 production.000 contract modification to HK for ACR RDT&E. HK reveals additional details of their G11 LMG. AMCCOM awards a $675. It is the initial order of a multi-year contract worth ~$41 million for ~30.000 contract modification to AAI for ACR RDT&E.000 contract modification to HK for ACR RDT&E.000 contract modification to ARES for ACR RDT&E. The design will use a three-chamber cylinder in order to help prevent cook-offs. Picatinny awards a $493.000 contract modification to HK for ACR RDT&E.562 for 266. At the ADPA Small Arms Symposium.663 titled "Firearm. AMCCOM deallocates $647. AMCCOM awards a $182. RSAF Enfield finishes its last complete SA80. AMCCOM awards $15. This is for FMS.760.000 delivery order to FN related to the M249." September: AMCCOM awards $32.000 contract modification to Colt related to the M249. Picatinny awards a $200. 644 titled "Bayonet for an Automatic Firearm.testing to determine the cook-off threshold.770. In addition.936.000 contract modification to AAI for ACR RDT&E. Colt challenges the Army's determination that FN is a responsible contractor claiming that the Army failed to consider information that FNMI was delinquent on a substantial number of its current contracts. RSAF Enfield ceases production of SA80-related parts. and had quality deficiencies. This is for FMS. MIL-S-63348A(AR). AMCCOM awards a $212. The RAW is bowling ball-shaped. Royal Ordnance's Alexander Newman and Derek Skinner receive US Patent #D298.098 titled "Telescoped Ammunition Round.000 contract modification to Steyr for ACR RDT&E. 1989." Late: Brunswick begins a company funded NDI qualification of the Rifleman's Assault Weapon (RAW). AMCCOM awards a $483. . BAe/RO purchases Sterling Armament and then closes its facilities soon afterwards. is validated..000 contract modification to FN related to the M249. The military specification for the M231 FPW.8 million sale of 20. Colt alleges that the Army in bad faith deliberately chose to ignore the "performance risks" associated with the FN award. Gene Stoner receives US Patent #4. and that the Army awarded the contract to FN simply to deny the award to Colt.. rocket-propelled grenade fired from a device attached to the muzzle and bayonet lug of a M16. December: AMCCOM awards a $7. Colt contends that proposals were not evaluated in accordance with the RFP evaluation criteria. A group of US Congressmen urge the State Department to halt a $13. November: Colt conducts the End of Phase II Maturity Demonstration for their ACR prototype.000 M16 to Guatemala. lacked financial capacity." October: Colt files a protest with the GAO over FNMI's M16A2 contract award. AMCCOM awards a $800.000 contract modification to FNMI for M249. and is closed soon after. The British hold additional Environmental User Trials for the SA80. E4: Aluminum) Safety plunger spring Trigger return spring Butt plate assembly Cam stud rail Ejection port dust cover Dust cover spring Flash suppressor Cheek pad Recoil rod assembly and springs Gas piston Piston spring Gas plug Cocking handle Handguards Receiver extension (LSW) Bipod (LSW) The Australian Engineering Development Establishment (EDE) conducts. Parts modified for the E3 and E4 include the following: Bolt Ejector spring Magazine housing insert Interceptor sear Pistol grip (E3 only) Trigger Take-down pins Safety plunger (E3: Plastic. an evaluation of the FN Minimi LMG to ascertain its level of acceptance into Australian service. As before. These are known as the XL85E3/XL86E3 and the XL86E4/XL86E4. . two different modification packages for the IW/LSW are tested. on behalf of the Small Arms Replacement Project (SARP). January: The GAO denies Colt's protest over FNMI's M16A2 contract award.867. a designated marksman version of the basic Ak5.000 rounds of 5. FN's Rene Predazzer files an US patent application for the design of the P90's horizontally-mounted magazine.45mm LADA rifle. receives a L85A1 and L86A1 on loan from the British MOD for testing with the C-Mag.Japan adopts the Howa Type 89. Approximately 7. The British ITDU ends SA80 Cold/Dry Environmental Trials in Norway.000 contract modification to Steyr for ACR RDT&E. AMCCOM awards a $728.493. The Czechs begin field testing of the 5. AMCCOM awards a $291. Diemaco achieves the goal of 100 percent Canadian production for the C7. Colt tests ELCAN's final design for the ACR optic.56mm ammunition are shipped to India. Beta Co.500 Wieger rifles and 1. FFV begins deliveries of the Ak5B. AMCCOM awards a $25.000 rounds of 5.7x22mm PDW cartridge to other designers and companies.56mm ammunition. Early: The Peruvian Army awards a $7. SIG introduces the SG550 Sniper. Colt completes assembly of the first six Phase III ACR prototypes. February: AMCCOM awards $222. .000.000 contract modification to FNMI for the M16A2. It is equipped with a British SUSAT optic.550 contract for the delivery of 10.000 delivery orders to Colt related to the M16 for FMS.000 and $58.800.000 contract modification to Colt for ACR RDT&E. The British ITDU starts SA80 Cold/Dry Environmental Trials in Norway. GIAT offers to provide the TDP for its 5.000 Wieger STG942 and 10. Colt's ACR is most the conservative.56x45mm parent case. The rifle retains the ability to use the issue M855 cartridge. (As Dean would say: kaBOOM!) As with earlier AAI fléchette rifles. Combined with the fléchette-tuned gas system. featuring a tall sighting rib inspired by the earlier HEL tests.000 rounds of ammunition. March: Colt submits their Phase III ACR prototypes to Aberdeen.56mm load. Inc. However. and the muzzle brake/compensator/flash hider assembly designed by Reed Knight. AMCCOM awards a $198.Brunswick completes NDI qualification of the RAW. along with 6. a standard cartridge could still be manually chambered in the rifle. However. users complain of the high noise levels. giving a velocity of ~2900fps. The remaining four candidates are then cleared for the 9 month field experiments at Fort Benning. The Australian EDE finds that significant reductions in the dispersion size of 5-round bursts with the FN Minimi are achieved when the original Minimi flash suppressor is replaced with a flash suppressor from either the F88 rifle or a MAG58 GPMG. However. Kennedy files a patent application for the ACR's handguard design. AAI's ACR entry harkens back to their 1970s-era SBR. the projectile size remains the same (0. AAI loads a standard 5. being merely a flattop M16-variant with an improved hydraulic buffer. this is merely a matter of semantics. The Colt ACR is submitted with an Olin-designed duplex 5.'s proposed dovetail dimensions for their flat-top C7 project.56x45mm case with a saboted fléchette (similar in principle to Frankford Arsenal's earlier experiments).92x34mm versus 4. instead firing micro-caliber cartridges formed from a 5. Colt's Paul G. HK's ACR is yet another variant of their G11 caseless rifle. the addition of a sound moderator/muzzle brake brings the muzzle blast down nearly to the . such a mixup could result in a very serious mishap.194"). while the AAI ACR's magazine is specially sized to prevent insertion of standard 5.73x33mm. Most will note the change in cartridge nomenclature: 4. Unfortunately.56mm NATO cartridges. April: The five submitted ACR designs are narrowed to four by Aberdeen's Combat Systems Test Agency.000 delivery order to Colt related to the M16 for FMS. a more ergonomic collapsible stock. The two projectiles weighed 35 grains (front) and 33 grains (rear). HK delivers the first five ACR. The oddest addition is the forearm. The Canadian military announces that they are adopting ARMS. 356 titled "Military Bayonet and Scabbard. The new magazine catches have a reduced profile to prevent the accidental release of the magazine.000 delivery order to FN related to the M249. AMCCOM awards a $3.761. both Steyr and AAI have limited their designs to three round bursts. the chamber slides down and a separate piston strips a new cartridge from the magazine into the chamber. Then the chamber rises in line with the barrel for firing. is credited to Ulrich Zedrosser (later known for his SBS rifle action). Phrobis III's Charles A. bullpup ACR design in time. Upon firing. outlining a new requirement for a Personal Defense Weapon (PDW).000psi) cause some concerns." May: Colt conducts final test firing of their Phase III ACR prototypes. the internal mechanism of their ACR is quite radical.821. NATO publishes document D/296. synthetic-cased fléchette (SCF) cartridge.817. ARES fails to perfect their own belt-fed.000 contract modification to AAI for ACR RDT&E. Designed by Gene Stoner and developed by Francis Warin. While the light fléchette/sabot combination allow for the very high cyclic rate to remain controllable. Nearly the entire design. The final fifteen rifles are then submitted for the ACR field trials. it pushes the fired case forward out of the chamber to eject it. however. Steyr's ACR outwardly resembles their flagship AUG family. As the new cartridge enters the chamber from the rear.level of a standard M16A2. however. Finn receives US Patent #4. and withdraws their entry. The extremely high chamber pressures quoted for the system (60.496 titled "Firearm. The Brazilian Army issues a Experimental Technical Report clearing the way for series manufacture of the IMBEL MD1 rifle. The British ITDU conducts SA80 Hot/Dry Environmental Trials. there is no hard data to indicate that any real problems developed.000-70. . Steyr's Ulrich Zedrosser receives US Patent #4. AMCCOM awards a $376. the ARES Advanced Individual Weapon System (AIWS) fires a conventional 5mm tracer projectile (weighing 45 grains) from a synthetic cased cartridge." British armorers receive a modified magazine catch for retrofit to the SA80. from the "raising chamber" mechanism to the completely cylindrical. using a raising chamber design similar to the Steyr ACR. William G." . July: Olin's Stephen J. Colt begins training the military trainers assigned to the ACR field tests. Steyr's Ulrich Zedrosser receives US Patent #4. Jr.068 titled "Cartridge for Firearms" and US Patent #4.840. Dennis.Steyr's Ulrich Zedrosser files an US patent application for the annular primer design used by the Steyr ACR's SCF cartridge..000 contract modification to ARES for ACR RDT&E.846. AMCCOM awards a $386. ARDEC releases "Molding of Fiber Glass/Epoxy Handguards for the SFLM (Serial Flechétte Launch Mechanism) Advanced Combat Rifle.237 titled "Peripheral Primer Firearm Cartridge. and Stephen K.000 rounds of 5. The AMSAA publishes "Independent Evaluation Plan (IEP) for the Advanced Combat Rifle. June: AMCCOM awards a $1.848." AMCCOM awards a $238. Kernosky file a patent application for a low-cost method of fabricating the M855's steel penetrator. Bilsbury. No further deliveries are made after the collapse of the East German government.000 Wieger STG942 and 2.000 contract modification to Colt related to the 1967 Licensing Agreement." The Indian Army asks the Ordnance Board to accelerate development of the INSAS family in hopes of service introduction as early as 1990." The Australian EDE publishes "Australian MINIMI F89 Light Support Weapon (LSW)/Plash Suppressor Test Report. AMCCOM awards a $117. The ITDU also tests a one-piece sling for the SA80.000 contract modification to Colt for ACR RDT&E.000 contract modification to AAI for ACR RDT&E.56mm ammunition. The ITDU also ends testing of the "Low Tech Sound Suppressor" from List Precision Engineering.000. Peru receives a shipment of 2. The British ITDU conducts SA80 Hot/Wet Environmental Trials in Brunei. ) AMCCOM awards a $216.) The US Army Infantry Center (USAIC) publishes a new edition of the Small Arms Master Plan (SAMP).000 contract modification to Steyr for ACR RDT&E. is shipped a sample of the Colt ACR's upper receiver and forging along with a purchase order for reengineering the upper receiver's scope rail. as the existing rails cuts make the receiver too thin. (This is the forerunner to the terminology "Special Operations Peculiar Modification.August: AMCCOM awards a $25. AMCCOM issues "Rifle M16 Stock & Guards: AMC National Training Center (NTC) Lessons Learned (LL) Program. Steyr's Ulrich Zedrosser files multiple US patent applications for the . The PDW is projected to weigh no more than 1. The SAMP continues to outline objectives for a new family of infantry weapons. (Reportedly. AMCCOM awards a $163. These are now named the Individual Combat Weapon (ICW)." The author recommends changing the furniture material to Zytel. AMCCOM awards a $923.000 contract modification to AAI for ACR RDT&E. September: Special Operations Special Technology (SOST) Modular Close Combat Carbine Project is funded. Inc. Personal Defense Weapon (PDW).628. The ICW is also intended to be effective against vehicles and low flying aircraft. and be effective out to 500 meters versus troops wearing body armor.000 contract modification to Colt for ACR RDT&E. One of the main goals is to increase the strength the rail.000 delivery order to FN related to the M249.000 contract to FNMI related to the M16. AMCCOM awards a $260. Swan demonstrated to Colt's Robert Roy that he could pierce the receiver at the bottom of the cut using the point of a Number 2 pencil.000 contract modification to MDHC for ACR RDT&E. AMCCOM awards a $50.5 pounds. AMCCOM awards a $2.419 M16A2. and Crew Served Weapon (CSW).000 delivery order to Colt related to the M16. Richard Swan of ARMS." SOPMOD for short. and be capable of defeating troops wearing body armor at 50 meters. FNMI receives an order for 4. The ICW is to weigh no more than 10 pounds fully loaded. The Canadian government pays ARMS.000 contract modification to Colt related to the 1967 Licensing Agreement. The British ITDU ends SA80 Hot/Dry Environmental Trials. The HK G11 receives type classification by the Bundeswehr.56mm 1990-1994) .000)." FN's Jean-Paul Denis and Marc Neuforge file an US patent application for the projectile design used in the 5. (Next: 5. Late: HK delivers 15 additional ACR plus 90. Its launcher is attached underneath the barrel much like an overgrown M203." Candidates for the US Army's Multi-Purpose Individual Munition (MPIM) competition submit Proof of Principle test rounds. Inc.design of the Steyr ACR. AMCCOM awards a $130. KAC begins development of a modular accessory attachment system for the M16. for its set of standardized rail dimensions. After Reed Knight witnesses press coverage of US soldiers during the invasion of Panama using duct tape. The Scorpion Urban Fighting Weapon is another rocket-propelled weapon." October: The DOD begins a refurbishment program to update M16 and M16A1 rifles to the current M16A2 standard. hose clamps. the project is dubbed the "LEGO System.000 rounds of ammunition in two batches (15. The BRL submits "Candidate Fléchette Projectiles.000 and 75. and other improvised methods to attach flashlights and other accessories to their weapons.7x28mm SS90 cartridge.000 round endurance test is run on the ACR candidates. November: Colt Industries announces its intent to sell the Colt Firearms Division to CF Holding Company. The British ITDU restarts SA80 Hot/Dry Environmental Trials. Two of the three candidates are fired from launchers attached to the M16: the Brunswick RAW and the McDonnell Douglas Scorpion. December: A 6. The BRL publishes "Live Fire Performance Evaluation of Optical Sights on the M16A2 Rifle. Internally. Small Arms Historian « Return to Top of Page » © 2000-2012 by The Gun Zone All Rights Reserved. This page resides @ http://www. TGZ is a wholly independent informational Website hosted by TCMi.com/556dw-9. Watters.thegunzone.by Daniel E.html in The Gun Zone! .