The Misconception: Was the M16 Fully Automatic in the Vietnam War?
The United States military, particularly in the context of the Vietnam War, has often been a subject of much debate and discussion. One common misconception centers around the fully automatic capabilities of the famous M16 rifle. Many people believe that the M16 was fully automatic only in certain situations, but the truth is quite different. In this article, we will explore the truth behind the M16's automatic fire capabilities, debunk some misconceptions, and discuss the actual features of this iconic firearm.
Understanding the M16 Selector Switch
The M16 rifle, designed in the United States and widely used by the military, was initially equipped with a unique selector switch. This switch allowed the operator to choose between full-automatic and semi-automatic fire. The switch had three distinct settings:
Safety (S): This position ensures that the firearm is not engaged, providing safety during handling and maintenance. Semi-Automatic (SA): In this setting, the rifle will fire one cartridge each time the trigger is pulled, allowing for precise and controlled shots. Full-Automatic (FA): Here, the rifle can fire multiple rounds with a single trigger pull, effectively emptying the magazine rapidly.The term 'joke' mentioned often refers to a lighthearted comment made by operators, specifically the Mel Vogel Special Forces and MACV. The joke was humorously suggesting that if one wanted to empty a magazine without targeting anything, the full-automatic setting would be the way to go.
Capabilities and Usage
It is important to note that the M16's automatic fire capability was not exclusive to the Vietnam War. In fact, all M16 rifles were designed to and are capable of full-automatic fire. The primary design goal of the M16 was to provide a light-weight, highly reliable firearm that could be used effectively by a wide array of operators, from experienced soldiers to new recruits.
Around the time of the Vietnam War, the M16's semi-automatic and full-automatic settings were widely used. During operations, operators would switch between these settings based on their tactical needs and personal preferences. The full-automatic setting could indeed clear a 20-round magazine in approximately 2 seconds, making it a powerful tool in close-quarters combat or when speed was crucial.
Conclusion and Further Discussion
In conclusion, the M16 rifle was equipped with full-automatic fire capabilities both during and after the Vietnam War. The decision to use different settings was often a tactical choice rather than a limitation of the weapon's design. The M16's versatility, combined with its ease of use and durability, made it a key weapon in the American military arsenal during the Vietnam War and beyond.
If you have any further questions or would like to learn more about the M16 and its use in the Vietnam War, please feel free to leave a comment or visit related resources for in-depth discussions and insights.