Is the SA80 better than the M16?
There are some flaws to the SA-80 but taken as an overall weapon system it is better than the M-16, which is very long in the tooth and really does need a complete redesign. The modern SA80 is comparable in quality and reliability to the M16.
How bad is the SA-80?
Still, past versions of the SA80 were notorious for their stoppages, particularly in harsh environments found on a typical battlefield. The rifle frequently had “bits” that would break or fall off the weapon. There are even stories of fixed bayonets “going ballistic” when soldiers opened fire.
How does the SA80 work?
The selective fire gas-operated design of L85A2 incorporates a bullpup layout with magazine and firing mechanism behind the trigger group. The rifle’s automation is provided by combusted powder gases. The gas is fed into a short-stroke gas piston system on the barrel through a three-position adjustable gas regulator.
Does the UK still use the SA80?
But problems plagued the SA80, which is still in service in a variety of configurations. To be fair, some British soldiers say the L85A2 — the most recent incarnation of the SA80 assault rifle — is reliable most of the time.
What’s the difference between the SA80 and the M16A1?
Like Steve Pickett, I’ve been fortunate enough to have used both rifles (specifically, the L85A1 version of the SA80 family and both the M16A1 and M16A2 of the AR15 family). The most obvious difference is the SA80 family are shorter than the AR15 rifles although the L85A1 was noticeably heavier.
What is the British Army’s SA80?
The SA80 is the British Army’s main assault rifle, and everything about it just screams “1980s.” The British Army Rumor Service — a message board and comedy site — described it as the weaponized version of civil servant, “as it doesn’t work, and can’t be fired.” The rifle even has the decade built into its name.
How reliable is the SA80 assault rifle?
To be fair, some British soldiers say the L85A2 — the most recent incarnation of the SA80 assault rifle — is reliable most of the time. Still, past versions of the SA80 were notorious for their stoppages, particularly in harsh environments found on a typical battlefield.
How many variants of the SA80 are there?
Variants. There are four main variants that make up the SA80 family: the L85 IW Rifle, the L86 Light Support Weapon, the L22 Carbine and the L98 Cadet rifle. The family has currently consists of two major models, A1 variants being the first issue weapons, and A2 distinguishing weapons which have undergone H&K upgrades.