There is a very good discussion about this over on Sig Form. One poster clearly explains the reasons behind the "somewhat" of a replacement of the M249.
Before anyone starts mouthing off again about what a terrible decision the Marines made, they need to go over there and read up. It was very "enlightening" to me.
At first I questioned the decision but after seein the Sig Form post I've changed my mind.
Long live the HK416. It might not be the greatest gun for full time supression but as a standard Infantry Rifle with a heavy 16 inch barrel I think it's hard to beat. Is it that much better than a standard M4, I don't know. Is it worth the extra money. Again I don't know.
I'm of the belief that US Forces should deliver 416 upper kits to their Combat Arms / Shooters. The rest of the masses can stick with the regular M4 / M16. This would not be a big change, same manual of arms, not alot of extra training needed. It would also limit the expense of a whole-sale change. Being able to use the exhisting lowers and parts already in the system is a big plus.
According to some reports the HK416 IAR entry realy kicked ass on the Colt and FN entries. The Marines shot the #### out of these test guns so I question the arguments / tales of massive failures with the HK416, in all sorts of ways (Bolts..receivers...buffers...lowers...) at the 20K mark....or 7K mark....or whatever.
Just a few thoughts,
Rich