[BallisticWookie]

<BLOCKQUOTE><font size="1" face="Verdana, Arial">quote:</font><HR>Originally posted by Mustang:
Question: Was the M14 used in WWII at all?<HR></BLOCKQUOTE>

No The M14 was introduced in May 1957. BUT, development of the M14 or it's earliest brother, the T20E2 began in 1944. Something like 100000 were made, but the war was so close to ending (the war in Europe had already ended) that sending them out to units was of no use.

The first ever M14 variant was designed with the M1 Garand body, just changing the mechanics inside and adding a magazine attachment. It fired something around 700 rounds per minute, but it weighed a heap.

Many changes were made up until 1957. They finally approved what we know as the M14 today. It was used widely as the standard rifle through the 1960's. The M21 or XM21 as it was known in the 60's was the accurised sniper version. A scope attached to the top and match grade ammuntion was used for greater accuracy.

In 1969 the M14 was almost widely replaced by M16A1 and sold off to countries with military aid programs. But you'll still see Spec Ops guys using this rifle because it is such a hard hitting and accurate weapon. SEAL Teams in Operation Desert Storm used it widely. It is also used by the Marine Corps for it's Snipers.

There ya go. Theres more history behind it, but I couldnt be bothered right now I need sleep.

Yeah FubarGrn, it's great job I enjoy it very much. But I;d much prefer to be in the Army, cant wait to join next year.