Platoon Weapons

[JMA]

You are allowed to shoot them more then once with both pistol or a submachine gun, does it really make that much of a difference?

In the infantry context it is unlikely that a pistol or SMG would be a fighting man's primary weapon.

That said, it is important to an infantry man that he has confidence in the 'knock down' ability of his personal weapon.

One does does often get the opportunity for a second shot before your target can return the favor.

In addition a person on the losing side of a fire fight can still withdraw to fight another day while a wounded man who is not mobile but able to use his weapon is a dangerous critter if he decides to take a few with him.

You owe it to your troops to provide them with the best weapons and equipment for their role in war.

... what am I saying? Do I really believe that politicians, weapons salesman and non-combatant staff officers give a $hit about that? Think M16.

Carl: missed your second post on this but think we are on the same page. Correctly you speak of logistic considerations in that there should be few different weapons and calibres carried (certainly) at company level. Preferably one type of ammo which is universal. If some 'smart' guy comes along and wants something different it's simple... 'just say no'.