Soldiers Give the Army’s New Rifle Optic Low Ratings
BY Herschel Smith
2 hours, 31 minutes ago
A 1-8×30 variable magnification direct view optic built by Vortex Optics subsidiary Sheltered Wings, the XM157 incorporates advanced technologies such as a laser rangefinder, aiming lasers, environmental sensors, ballistic solver, compass and a digital display overlay, all of which are designed to “increase the probability of hit and decrease the time to engage” with a computerized assist, according to the Army’s fiscal 2025 budget request.
The XM157 also features wireless connectivity that will purportedly allow it to integrate with heads-up displays like the Army’s current Enhanced Night Vision Goggle-Binocular, or ENVG-B, and future Integrated Visual Augmentation System, or IVAS, do-it-all goggles, allowing soldiers to survey the battlefield from cover using a live video feed from their weapon optic.
“The XM7 with mounted XM157 demonstrated a low probability of completing one 72-hour wartime mission without incurring a critical failure,” the Operational Test and Evaluation report adds.
Despite the documented issues detailed in DOT&E report, the Army is still plowing ahead …
But of course they are.
Hmm, let’s see. A brand new ceramic cartridge with essentially no real logistical chain to speak of, chambers that will now see 85,000 psi, and a new optic that can’t go three days in the field without malfunctions.
Well, maybe some general got rich off of this boondoggle.
I’ve told y’all what we need to do, and I think most of you agreed. Issue fighters a range finder, get a decent LPVO and spend a lot of range time, switch over the barrel and BCG in existing M4s to 6mm ARC (and for heaven’s sake, ditch the 14″ barrel and use an 18″ barrel), and use Amend2 magazines because in my experience they work well with 6mm ARC.
Now see there, I didn’t even make millions of dollars fixing the problems for you.
Get a decent LPVO, switch over the barrel and BCG in existing M4s to 6mm ARC (and for heaven's sake, ditch the 14" barrel and use an 18" barrel), and use Amend2 magazines because in my experience they work well with 6mm ARC.https://t.co/ViFili9aMq
— CaptainsJournal (@BrutusMaximus50) February 12, 2025
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