During the early 2000s, the U.S. military special operations community started adopting the Heckler & Koch HK416 as their primary rifle to replace the Colt M4A1. Yet, this smooth change did not happen. One reason is that only some were able to use this German-made rifle in combat, and many are still using the M4A1 or the FN SCAR. With its mighty task and purpose, this rifle can be a powerful tool to help in combat. But it remained absent from the broader inventory of the U.S. Special Operations Command.Suggested read: 5 Tips and Tricks to Help You Break More Clay Targets

A Deeper Look Into the HK416

The German gun is a considerable step away from the classic Colt M4A1. Operating alone is different; the classic rifle is gas-operated with a direct impingement system. On the other hand, the HK416 is gas-operated with a short-stroke piston-driven operating rod, which makes it more reliable. However, it is heavier and more expensive than its counterparts. The two guns have similarities; some likenesses include the magazine release, safety selector switch, charging handle, and Picatinny rails, which are similar. Despite this, cleaning methods are different. The M4's chamber and bolt carrier group must be cleaned more often. Meanwhile, the 416 pistol system needs regular maintenance. Some people are okay with cleaning it, but for others who are working late at night, it might be a hassle. They need to re-check the zero on their lasers every time they remove the handrail to clean the piston. This rifle can be submerged underwater and fired immediately with its modern mechanism. At the same time, its counterparts must be drained before they can fire, which is a problem for Soldiers who fight in wet environments. Read next: Finding a Shooting Range Near Me: Choosing the Right One

Its Significance and Impact on Modern Warfare

In 2011, the U.S. Marine Corps started to use the HK416; for them, it's like having an M27. According to the tests, the German rifle was highly praised for its reliability. However, adopting this powerful rifle stopped due to its increased price. However, some units in Special Operation Forces were lucky to have a budget and could afford to get their hands on it. Due to the nature of their missions, the rifle was subjected to rigorous testing and demanding conditions.They need to consider that the M4A1 weighs around 7.5 pounds while the 416 weighs over 8 pounds. This should not be an issue, but it could be a deal breaker for snipers trying to reduce fatigue and enhance mobility. One operator mentioned that when carrying his HK416, he felt slightly more tired and realized the noticeable weight difference compared to the M4. Still, the 416 is undeniably a powerful rifle; its reliability in any environment is no question. And in automatic mode, it can fire thousands of rounds without malfunctions.

The Diminishing Role of the HK416 in Special Ops

During training, it can't be helped that one operator can fire up to 10,000 rounds using the 416. With this usage, any problem can be immediately identified, as one mentioned some issues with fine-tuning (the pressure system designed for both suppressed and unsuppressed utilization of the rifle). But this is manageable by adjusting the system and the gas to a repressed setting.Also, the mixture of customized shots created a variety of pressures that directed to cycling issues. Some operators also noted that getting used to cleaning the German rifle is quite a puzzle. They had to determine if the 416 pistol or the HK416 rail needed frequent cleaning. They requested HK to make specific changes to the rifle's piling issues. However, the Department of Defense had no contract with Heckler & Koch. So, addressing the issue is not a wise business move for them, which led to the phase-out of HK416. This German rifle was one of the highest firearms that was used and will always be a part of history. Suggested read: Top 30 Coolest Military Weapons You've Never Heard Of