the 5.56 x 45mm - 1963 - 1964 - a chronology of development - by daniel watters

8/13/2019 The 5.56 x 45mm - 1963 - 1964 - A Chronology of Development - By Daniel Watters

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The Gunperson's Authoritative Internet Information Resource.

Part Three...

The 5.56 X 45mm: 1963-1964

A Chronology of Development by Daniel Watters

1963...

"Build a Better Mouse Gun, and the World Will Beat a Path toYour Door."ArmaLite project engineer Arthur Miller scales down

Gene Stoner's 7.62mm NATO AR-16 design into the 5.56mm AR-18.Enticed by Stoner to join him at Cadillac Gage, L. James Sullivanand Robert Fremont scale down the 7.62mm NATO Stoner 62 intothe 5.56mm Stoner 63. Beretta and SIG join forces for a 5.56mmrifle project. At Heckler & Koch, Tilo Mller begins development of ascaled down 7.62mm NATO G3 into the 5.56mm HK 33.

Remington commercially introduces the .221 Remington Fireball, ashortened .222 Remington, along with the XP-100 bolt-action pistol.

Weatherby commercially introduces the .224 Weatherby Magnum.While supposedly under development for nearly a decade, the

cartridge is roughly an improved .219 Zipper with a belt andWeatherby's radiused shoulder contour.

Valtion Patruunatehdas of Lapua, Finland begins loading the Russian5.6x39mm Running Deer cartridge. Later, the cartridge and case arecommercially manufactured by Sako as the .220 Russian.

January: The Army's Deputy Chief of Staff for Military Operations(DCSOPS) LTG Theodore W. Parker publishes the study "RifleEvaluation: A Comparative Evaluation of the U.S. Army RifleM14, the Armalite AR-15, and the Soviet Rifle AK-47." The

study recommends "only the M14 is acceptable for general use inthe U.S. Army." The study states that the AR-15 is less reliable, haspoor pointing and night firing characteristics, has only "marginallysatisfactory" penetration, and its adoption would violate NATOstandardization agreements. Three alternative courses of action areproposed:

1. Continue M14 production until a radically improvedweapon can be procured, such as the SPIW or itsequivalent;

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Links 'n' StuffThe Gun Zone

5.56mm 'Prologue'

5.56mm 1957-1962

5.56mm 1963-1964

5.56mm 1965-1966

5.56mm 1967

5.56mm 1968-1969

5.56mm 1970-1973

5.56mm 1974-1979

5.56mm 1980-1985

5.56mm 1986-1989

5.56mm 1990-1994

5.56mm 1995-1999

5.56mm 2000-2001

5.56mm 2002-2003

5.56mm 2004

5.56mm 2005

5.56mm 2006

5.56mm 2007

5.56mm 2008

5.56mm 2009

5.56mm Propellant

5.56mm FAQ - v1.14

5.56mm v. .223 Rem

Flchette / SPIW

Multiplex / SALVO

Green Ammo

T G Z B l o g

Daniel Watters' suggested
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2. Terminate M14 production at the end of FY 1963procurement. Rapidly procure a militarized AR-15 tocomplete inventory objectives. Reorient the research anddevelopment program to provide a weapon meeting orexceeding the SPIW's characteristics in the future; or

3. Continue M14 production. Procure a militarized AR-15 inFY 1964 to equip air assault, airborne, and Special Forces

units. Continue SPIW development to supportprocurement in FY 1967.

Not surprisingly, LTG Parker recommends the first course of action,with development of the SPIW projected for an initial procurement inFY 1965.

In a memo to Secretary Vance titled "Comparative Evaluation ofthe M14, AR-15, and Soviet AK-47 Rifles," General Wheelerreports "The AR-15 is not now acceptable for the Army for universaluse." Supporting arguments included that adoption of the .223Remington cartridge would violate NATO standardization, that the

M14 was superior at ranges over 400m, and that the AR-15 designwas not completely debugged or reliable. In the trials, the AR-15suffered a malfunction rate eight times higher than that of thecontrol M14 rifles. In addition, testing at Aberdeen and EdgewoodArsenal could not duplicate the terminal results reported by ARPA'sProject AGILE.

General Wheeler recommends:

1. In FY 1964, procure between 50,000 and 100,000 AR-15rifles and use them to equip Air Assault, Special Forces,and Airborne units;

2. In FY 1964, procure a sufficient number of the M14(M)rifles to provide an automatic rifle capability to all infantrysquads armed with the M14 rifle;

3. Reduce the FY 1964 M14 program by a number sufficientto accommodate recommendations 1 and 2 above; and

4. Continue the current SPIW program and undertakeexpedited improvement of the AR-15 to determine whichof these weapons will best meet the requirement for afollow-on rifle.

Some questionable decisions and outright skullduggery surface inthe Inspector General's investigation. For instance, the AR-15 was

judged against M1 rifle-era requirements such as aimed fire out to800m. The AR-15 rifles were required to fire full automatic, whilethe M14 rifles were allowed to remain on semi-auto. For comparisontesting, the Infantry Board even brought out prototype match riflesand squad automatic versions of the M14 such as the M14(USAIB)(AKA: the M14E2 or M14A1). A representative from the Office of theChief of Research and Development telephoned TECOM suggestingthat Aberdeen's D&PS use a specific form of rain test to induce

syllabusThe Black Rifleby R. Blake

Stevens and Edward C. Ezell.

Second Edition.Collector Grade

Publications,Toronto, Ontario,

1992.

The Great Rifle Controversyby

Edward C. Ezell. Stackpole BooksHarrisburg, PA, 1984.

The M16 Controversiesby

Thomas L. McNaugher. Praeger

Publishers, New York, NY, 1984.

The History and Development of

the M16 Rifle and its Cartridge

by David R. Hughes. Armory

Publications, Oceanside, CA,

1990.

The SPIW: The Deadliest

Weapon that Never Wasby R.

Blake Stevens and Edward C.

Ezell.Collector Grade

Publications,Toronto, Ontario,

1985.

Black Rifle II: The M16 into the

21st Centuryby Christopher R.

Bartocci.Collector Grade

Publications,Cobourg, Ontario,

2004.

The Last Enfield - SA80: The

Reluctant Rifleby Steve Raw.

Collector Grade Publications,

Cobourg, Ontario, 2003.

More by Daniel...Other of Watters' learned works-in

progress for TGZincludeA Brief

History of Flchette and Project

SPIW,as well as.30 Carbine

WildcatsandMiniguns and the

Movies.

Valued E-mail UtilityAll E-mail to TGZis screened by

MailWasher Profor spam and

viruses. For a free trial download,

clickhere.Stop unwanted E-mail

before it reaches your machine.

Strongest recommendation.

Document HistoryPublication: 12/10/1998Last Revised: 05/17/2009
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failures in the AR-15. The M14 was not subjected to the same test.Aberdeen's BRL switched out a M14 being used for accuracy testingwhen it showed signs of inaccuracy. Accusations were also made ofthe use of handpicked lots of match grade ammunition for M14accuracy testing. Negative aspects of the M14's testing weredownplayed or even omitted from reports, while the AR-15 wasconsistently portrayed in a negative fashion even when the testresults indicated otherwise. All attendees of the October 1962planning conference were interrogated. They denied under oath thatthey had planned to fix the rifle evaluations against the AR-15. TheUSAIB representative, an Army Colonel, explained that his infamousmemorandum was not what he meant to express, and blamed itswording on administrative error. Admittedly, some of the AR-15'sproblems in testing were real, the result of rushed production of therifles and their ammunition for the rifle trials. The biggest problemexperienced was primers blown out of the case upon firing. (RobertMacdonald was so upset that he sent individual letters to Colt andRemington, accusing both companies of sabotaging the tests.)

In a report to the OSD, Secretary Vance recommends the following:1) Procure enough rifles converted to the M14(USAIB) standard forissue as automatic rifles to all infantry squads; 2) Procure 50,000-100,000 AR-15 for issue to Air Assault, Airborne, and Special Forcesunits; 3) Production of standard M14 rifles is to be reduced; and 4)TheSPIWprogram will be scheduled to provide a "follow-on"replacement for the M14 by the end of FY 1965. In response,McNamara announces the cancellation of M14 production once FY1963 contracts are completed. The Department of Defense alsoaccepts the USAF's plan to procure a total of 80,000 AR-15 riflesduring a five-year period.

The ODCSLOG submits a staff study of the Army's AR-15 riflerequirements. Procurement and distribution is proposed as follows:

PurposeAir

AssaultSpecialForces

Airborne Total

Initial Issue 13,000 6,665 34,352 54,017

MaintenanceFloat

630 333 1,718 2,701

CombatSupport (6months)

5,070 2,598 13,386 21,054
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Pipeline (2months)

1,690 366 4,462 7,018

Total 20,410 10,462 53,913 84,790

In the end, the Army proposes a "one-time" purchase of 85,000 AR-15 rifles. It is intended as a stopgap measure until the SPIW isready for fielding.

CDCRE-E sends a letter to LTG Besson titled "AR-15 RifleDeficiencies."

The USAF type-classifies the .223 Remington under the designation"Cartridge, 5.64 Millimeter Ball MLU-26/P." The militaryspecifications for the ammunition is published as MIL-C-9963. TheUSAF also releases the report "Exterior Ballistics of the AR-15

Rifle." The results of cold chamber testing at Eglin Air Force Baseindicate that the ammunition cannot meet accuracy requirements insubzero temperatures. A change in the rate of twist from 1-in-14" to1-in-12" is noted as solving the problem.

A meeting is held at Lake City Army Ammunition Plant betweenArmy and USAF representatives. The purpose of this meeting is todevelop practical drawings and specifications based on the previousexperience of the USAF with Remington cartridges. The USAF pointsout that the performance of the Remington cartridges have not beensatisfactory because of four principal deficiencies: keyholing,

stripping of the bullet jacket, packaging, and a light powder charge.The MUCOM representative stresses the importance of having amilitary specification for the rifle, since any variation in the design ofthe rifle could require a change in design of the ammunition.

The USAF receives the final AR-15 of its original 8,500 rifle order.

Aberdeen's Human Engineering Laboratory (HEL) releases the report"Summary of Studies Conducted with the AR-15." The reportcontains a summary of firings conducted with the AR-15 usingseveral muzzle brake deflectors and other means to reduceautomatic fire dispersion.

The HEL also publishes "Measurement of Peak Sound-PressureLevels Developed by AR-15 and M14 Rifle Bullets in Flight."

WECOM begins contract negotiations for prototype SPIWconstruction.

Springfield submits Request for Proposals to various facilities forsupport in the design, development, and fabrication of a largecapacity magazine, a grenade launcher, and a muzzle device for


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Springfield's own SPIW candidate. After receiving and evaluating theproposals, Springfield requests the award of contracts. However, thedevelopment of the muzzle device is cancelled.

WECOM notifies Springfield that the accelerated program for theSPIW has been approved. Springfield begins major retrofitting of

parts to its prototype, and initiates the fabrication of four testweapons.

February: USMC Commandant General David M. Shoup convenes aboard at the Marine Corps Landing Force Development Center toconduct comparative evaluation of the AR-15. BG Lewis W. Walt isappointed board chairman. The board's findings are later evaluatedby an informal board of officers at HQMC. They conclude that:

1. The M14 and AR-15 are essentially equal and adequatewith respect to training reliability, and combateffectiveness. However, the AR-15 is easier to handle,requires less mechanical training time, and is

predominately lower in system weight. As such, the AR-15would be a more effective combat rifle for the USMC.

2. However, there is no comparable .223 machinegun toreplace the M60.

3. Until a .223 machinegun can be developed, no .223 rifleshould be adopted by the USMC.

In a memo titled "Rifle Procurement Program," the JCSrecommends procurement of the AR-15. A day later, in anothermemo of the same title, McNamara officially approves the

procurement of the AR-15.

LTG Besson writes MG Lynde directing WECOM and MUCOM to takenecessary action to identify problems in weapon and ammunitioncompatibility, and to begin corrective action. Specific problems citedin the letter are:

Raised and uneven primers;

Inaccurate primer staking;

Bullets inadequately crimped to the cartridge case;

Excessive chamber pressures;

Sluggish functioning of weapons possibly due to wrongpressure curve;

Different cartridge and chamber dimensions.

The first firing model of the Stoner 63 is fabricated.

Johnson Guns, Inc. commercially introduces the MMJ 5.7mm Spitfireconversion for M1 Carbines.


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Deciding to limit the SPIW competition to four candidates, WECOMawards SPIW development contracts to recently displaced M14contractors H&R and Olin-Winchester. AAI and Springfield Armoryhave already begun developing their own SPIW.

WECOM requests a concept and feasibility study of a conventionalconfiguration for the Springfield SPIW mechanism, currently inbullpup form. The study determines that it is not feasible to makeany major design changes. However, a compromise approach isfound which does not alter the basic mechanism's functioning parts.By means of a conversion kit, the compromise design can beassembled to have a bullpup configuration or a conventionalconfiguration. (The latter is referred to in drawings as the USAIBconfiguration.)

Winchester completes its contact for an improved "soft recoil"prototype mechanism. By this point, Winchester has overcome itsfunctional difficulties.

March: The OSD orders the military services to draft a joint set ofrequirements for the AR-15 and its ammunition. The number andcost of any improvements and modifications are ordered to be keptto a minimum.

LTG Besson establishes the "Office of Project Manager for AR-15Rifle Activities," appointing LTC Harold W. Yount the ProjectManager. The goal is to facilitate cooperation between the servicesin developing military specifications. However, the very same day ina meeting at the office of the Assistant Secretary of the Army(Installations & Logistics) - ASA(I&L)Paul R. Ignatius,Army andUSAF representatives clash over proposed changes to the rifle,including a change in rifling twist and the introduction of a boltclosure device.

Days later, OASA(I&L) sends the memo "Changes in the AR-15Rifle."

The Inspector General's findings are released as a six volume reporttitled: "IG Rifle Evaluation."

McNamara sends a memorandum to Secretary Vance titled "AR-15

Ammunition and Rifle," designating the Department of the Armyas the procurement agency for all DOD users of the AR-15 rifle andammunition begining in FY 1964.

LTC Yount directs that 600,000 cartridges be procured immediatelyto support the Army's existing 338 AR-15 rifles.

The JCS concur with CINCPAC Admiral Felt's decision to denyMACV's request for AR-15. Oddly, McNamara approves the JCS'recommendation.
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Frankford Arsenal is assigned oversight of the procurement of .223Remington ammunition. William C. Davis is assigned as "AR-15Project Director" and is directed to prepare a technical datapackage.

Springfield Armory is requested to perform a modified weaponsperformance test on six AR-15 Rifles to evaluate and/or confirmproblems reported during the previous Army-wide evaluation tests.The new tests are meant to determine the degree of seriousness ofthe reported problems and to recommend whether redesign orproduct improvement is necessary for the parts reported deficient.After Springfield testing confirms the earlier reported issues, LTCYount orders Springfield to conduct "best effort" studies of themagazine and feeding system, development of an improved muzzlecompensator, feasibility studies of a bolt closure device utilizing thecharging handle, and a grenade launcher attachment. All theproduct improvements are to be accomplished, if possible, without amajor redesign of the weapon or appreciable increase in the cost of

the major item. In addition, an ammunition-chamber compatibilitystudy in conjunction with Frankford Arsenal is to be conducted.

The report "Engineering Test on Interchangeability of Rifles,Caliber .223, AR-15" is published.

At the end of the month, MG Lynde establishes the "TechnicalCoordinating Committee" (TCC). The TCC will ultimately becomprised of LTC Yount, members of each service branch, William C.Davis from Frankford Arsenal, Charles F. Packard from SpringfieldArmory, and representatives from the OSD: the Deputy AssistantSecretary for Weapons Acquisition and Industrial Readiness JamesN. Davis and Frank J. Vee, a program analyst from the Directorateof Major Items, Materiel, Installations & Logistics. While LTC Yount isthe titular chair of the committee, the OSD representatives haveveto power over any decision made by the TCC. Within the next fewmonths, over 130 changes are proposed for the rifle andammunition. One of Army recommendations vetoed by the OSD isfor chrome plating of the bore and chamber.

WECOM Deputy Commanding General BG Roland B. Anderson sends

memo to USAF and USMC titled "Appointment of AR-15Technical Committee."

General Wheeler orders a review of the Army's entire Arsenalsystem. The report ultimately concludes that only five of the Army'sten arsenals be retained in their existing capacity. The reportsrecommends that Springfield Armory be among those studied forfuture closure.

In a memo titled "Rifles," the Deputy Chief of Staff for Researchand Development notes a conversion with General Wheeler in whichWheeler expresses skepticism about the SPIW and states that


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"Perhaps the AR-15 will be the Infantry weapon of the future."

The US Army Arctic Test Board reports on testing of the AR-15.

Springfield Armory publishes "Engineering Evaluation of the AR-15 Rifle."

The USMC publishes "Comparative Evaluation of M14 Rifle andAR-15 Rifle."

ARPA orders 25 Stoner 63 in various configurations. The contractwill later be modified to add six fixed machine guns for the USAF foruse in conducting pod-mounted tests for aircraft armamentapplications, and five complete systems, of which three go to the US

Army and two to the USMC.

Gene Stoner files a patent application for the design used in theStoner 62 and the Stoner 63.

Winchester requests that all government-furnished materiel,including the test fixture fabricated under the improved "soft recoil"

prototype mechanism contract, be transferred to its new SPIWcontract. WECOM approves the transfer.

April: Secretary Vance submits a memorandum titled"Standardization and Procurement of the AR-15 Rifle" toMcNamara outlining the Army's plans for the AR-15 andammunition. The USAF will be allowed to complete their FY 1963procurement of 19,000 rifles independently of the Army. The orderfor FY 1964 is projected as 85,000 rifles for the Army and 19,000 forthe USAF. FY 1965 procurement will be limited to 33,500 rifles tocomplete the USAF's previously established requirement for 80,000AR-15. MACV's request for 20,000 rifles is again ignored. Vance alsostates that relative costs and benefits of a sole-source contractversus competitive procurement have been considered. Sole-sourcing the contract to Colt is believed to offer lower cost, earlierproduction and delivery, and fewer problems with administrative,legal, and employment issues. Vance further outlines some of theproposed changes to the AR-15 design discussed so far: inclusion ofa manual bolt closure device, redesign of the magazine, and

modification of the chamber throat to ease extraction. Thesechanges are considered to be interrelated and inseparable. Also

proposed are a redesign of the sight protectors' angle to improveinstinctive aiming characteristics during night-firing, determinationof the proper rifling twist to improve the stability of the projectile,and sorting out the dimensional incompatibility of the respectivechamber and ammunition dimensions. As for the latter, it isproposed that the chamber be modified instead of the ammunition.If the changes in the chamber result in degradation of ammunitionballistics, only then will consideration be given to modifying theammunition. Ammunition will be procured competitively fromcommercial sources.


9/40

The USAF signs a contract for another 19,000 AR-15.

It is discovered that IMR 4475 cannot reliably achieve the quotedmuzzle velocity of 3,300fps within the accepted maximum chamberpressure specs. At the same time, Olin-Winchester is proposing anew cartridge, the .224E5. The .224E5 and its predecessor, the.224E4, are both based on the .25 Remington case, shortened to fitwithin the same action length as the .223 Remington. However, the.224E5 possesses a rebated rim so that existing .223 Remingtonbolt faces need not be altered. (Oddly enough, these cartridges bearmore than a passing similarity to the .219 Donaldson Wasp, albeitwithout a rim.)

USAF and USMC testing of the AR-15 indicate a "slam-fire" problem.The issue is originally blamed on high primers, but this is quicklydismissed as the cause.

At Frankford Arsenal, William C. Davis issues "First Memo Report

on AR-15 Rifle Ammunition Systems: Investigation of FiringPin Energy and Primer Sensitivity." The kinetic energy of theexisting AR-15 firing pin is found to range from 4 to 14 inch-ounceswhen the bolt closes. While Frankford does not currently haveequipment to determine the sensitivity limits of .223 primers, theyhave been told by Remington that it should be comparable tomilitary .30 Carbine primers. Primers for military .30 Carbinecartridges have "None Fire/All Fire" tolerances of 6 to 36 inch-ounces. Davis recommends that the None Fire limit for .223ammunition should exceed 15 inch-ounces.

Aberdeen's D&PS releases the report "Evaluation Test of the Rateof Rifling Twist in Rifle, Caliber .223, AR-15."

BG Anderson sends memo to US Navy titled "Appointment of AR-15 Technical Committee."

Gene Stoner demonstrates the Stoner 63 to BGLewis W. Walt,Director of the Marine Corps Landing Force Development Center.

Gene Stoner receivesUS Patent #3,087,270 titled "AmmunitionMagazine with a Coil Spring."

The BRL submits "Effect of Nose Shape on IncapacitationProbabilities for Caliber .14 Bullets."

Springfield completes its first two SPIW test weapons for in-housedevelopment work.

The BRL also publishes "A Provisional Effectiveness Evaluationof Flchette-Firing Machine Guns Mounted on Rotary Wing

Aircraft."
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lewis_William_Walthttp://patft.uspto.gov/netacgi/nph-Parser?patentnumber=3087270http://patft.uspto.gov/netacgi/nph-Parser?patentnumber=3087270http://patft.uspto.gov/netacgi/nph-Parser?patentnumber=3087270http://patft.uspto.gov/netacgi/nph-Parser?patentnumber=3087270http://patft.uspto.gov/netacgi/nph-Parser?patentnumber=3087270http://patft.uspto.gov/netacgi/nph-Parser?patentnumber=3087270http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lewis_William_Walt


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May: MUCOM sends the letter "Production of 5.64 mm (caliber.223) Ball Ammunition for the AR-15 Rifle."

Late in the month, the ammunition TDP becomes available to theUSAF.

Gene Stoner receivesUS Patent #3,090,150 titled "Hand GuardConstruction."

Plans are set forth to graft a SPIW-type 40x46mm grenade launcheronto the AR-15 rifle. However, this effort bogs down due toinadequate funding.

Aberdeen's D&PS publishes "Feasibility Test of a 40mm GrenadeLauncher on the AR-15 Rifle."

H&R releases its final report for Phase 1 of the SPIW program.

Springfield completes four additional SPIW test weapons. Two of

these are intended for use by contractors, while the others arereserved for development work.

On behalf of the US Army, Frederick Reed files a patent applicationfor a mechanism with two magazines side-by-side which will switchfeed to the second magazine once the first magazine runs empty.Reed also files an application for a mechanism which uses acombination of belt feed and magazine feed.

June: McNamara sends a memo to Secretary Vance titled "Actionon Rifle Production Base Plan." McNamara complains of the lackof progress by the TCC, which are delaying rifle and ammunitionproduction. He suggests that most of the modifications are notessential, and that Colt and Gene Stoner be consulted before anyfuture changes are acted upon. For example, the OSD alleges thatthe slam-fire issue is mainly the result of improper handling, such assingly loading a round into the chamber without the magazine. Thus,no further consideration to primer sensitivity limits or firing pinmodifications is warranted.

Frankford Arsenal designs a gauge to measure gas port pressure,

and begins taking measurements. However, engineers admit thatthere is no knowledge of the desirable range for gas port pressure.

A meeting is held at Hill AFB to implement procedures for thetransfer of USAF technical data to Frankford Arsenal for "5.64mm"ammunition.

The US Army completes the initial Technical Data Package (TDP) for5.56mm ammunition. The TDP is based on commercial ballisticsrequirements with a slight amendment based on further review ofcommercial manufacturing experience.
http://patft.uspto.gov/netacgi/nph-Parser?patentnumber=3090150http://patft.uspto.gov/netacgi/nph-Parser?patentnumber=3090150http://patft.uspto.gov/netacgi/nph-Parser?patentnumber=3090150http://patft.uspto.gov/netacgi/nph-Parser?patentnumber=3090150http://patft.uspto.gov/netacgi/nph-Parser?patentnumber=3090150


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At Frankford, William C. Davis files the report "Investigation ofTest-Weapon Chamber Configuration." It is found that Colt'schamber tolerances do not mesh with Remington's dimensionalspecifications for the cartridge. Another report, "Third MemoReport on AR-15 Rifle-Ammunition System: Investigation ofBullet Configuration," indicates that Remington is no longer usingthe original 7-caliber ogive bullet design. Instead, they haveswitched to a less aerodynamic 5.5-caliber ogive design. Thereplacement design is claimed to be easier for the company tomass-produce. Davis points out that if the original projectile designwere reintroduced, the pressure level of the ammunition could bereduced 3,000 to 4,000psi by relaxing the required muzzle velocityto 3,150fps. However, despite the reduction in initial velocity, thesuperior ballistic shape of the original bullet would still result inhigher impact velocities at all ranges beyond 100 yards than withRemington's inferior projectile design. However, further research willneed to be completed to determine the proper rate of twist for theSierra bullet, as well as examine its terminal ballistics.

At a subsequent meeting of the TCC, William C. Davis presents hisdiscovery regarding the switch in bullets and its implications. TheBRL also reports on its research regarding the stability and lethalityof the Remington bullet design in barrels using the 1 in 14" and 1 in12" rifling twists. LTC Yount asks the BRL to include the Sierra bulletin its future studies. Colt informs the TCC that a major redesign ofthe AR-15 will be required to implement modifications to preventslam-fires.

Springfield completes samples of one of two AR-15 bolt closuredevice designs being fabricated. This pair had been chosen out ofseven different concepts suggested.

After studying several independent flash suppressor and muzzlebrake designs, Springfield completes design work on twocombination flash suppressor/muzzle brake designs for the AR-15.

LTC Yount forwards the requirement for a chamber brush that wasidentified by the USAF Marksmanship Unit, Lackland AFB and byGene Stoner. This information is passed along to HQ AMC and HQCDC.

Richard Colby files a patent application for the front-to-back tandem

magazine of Springfield Armory's 1st Gen. SPIW.

Springfield awards separate contracts for development of their SPIWhigh capacity magazine and grenade launcher.

Summer: TCC progress breaks down, as the US Army demands abolt closure device. The USAF strongly objects, while the US Navyand USMC consider it "non-essential" but are willing to accept it.Colt and Springfield Armory submit various prototypes. Gene Stonerprefers Springfield's first prototype, as it would only add two parts


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to the design. The Army prefers Colt second design devised by Colt'sFoster E. Sturtevant.

Springfield revisits the issue of conventional versus bullpupconfigurations for its SPIW candidate, along with a new issue of themagazine arrangement: "tandem" stacking versus "four to two row"stacking. Examples of both conventional and bullpup SPIW are sentto the Human Engineering Laboratory at Aberdeen for testing. As forthe magazine, tandem stacking is selected. In addition to theactivity related to the configuration tests, the cyclic rate of the SPIWis increased by approximately 50 percent. The test firing of

prototypes is plagued by failures-to-eject, misfires, overheating, andexcessive muzzle blast. The need to eliminate these problemsresults in the decision that additional development is required andthat the Armory will not be able to make delivery of three SPIW toWECOM HQ in November. Springfield's Model Shop beginsfabrication of three SPIW, while the Operations Division isresponsible for the fabrication of seven others. Each is expected tocomplete fabrication by the end of the calendar year.

July: USAF lets a contract to Remington for 19 million rounds ofammunition.

In a memo titled "Procurement AR-15," WECOM DeputyCommanding General BG Roland B. Anderson directs LTC Yount isdirected to formulate plans for the FY 1964 procurement of 85,00AR-15 for the US Army. Yount is to include two items in the Army'snegotiations with Colt for the AR-15. First, they should attempt toacquire the production rights and the technical data package (TDP)for the rifle. Second, they should negotiate out Fairchild's 15 percentroyalty on spare parts. Representatives of the Project Manager'soffice, Springfield Armory, and WECOM meet to develop the plan.Yount subsequently begins briefing higher authorities.

The "AR-15 Conference" is held at Springfield Armory. A task groupof representatives from WECOM, Springfield Armory, the USAF, theUS Navy, and the USMC develop performance specifications basedon conventional type rifle requirements such as headspace, prooftesting, firing pin indent, trigger pull, etc. These are published asSpringfield Armory Purchase Description (SAPD) 253: "AcceptanceTesting Specification for Rifle, AR-15." Malfunctions andunserviceable parts permitted during the reliability test outlined in

SAPD 253 are generally the same as those specified in the USAF'scontract AF-33-(675)-10871. LTC Yount provides guidelines (whichhe received from Secretary McNamara) that final acceptance testingfor the AR-15 Rifle cannot be more stringent than those required forthe M14 Rifle.

Secretary Vance informs McNamara that "a modification of the AR-15 rifle (the bolt closure device) is absolutely essential to improveits reliability to an acceptable level in accordance with Army combatrequirements."


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In a memo titled "Action on AR-15 Rifle Modifications," DeputySecretary of Defense Gilpatric issues a directive to the TCC to speedup the procurement of the AR-15. Quality control, partsinterchangeability, and acceptance standards are to be relaxed asnecessary. Gilpatrick also directs that the OASD(I&L) will take actionon any requests made by the services or TCC if it required OSDattention.

McNamara signs off on the change of rifling twist from 1-in-14" to 1-in-12".

LTC Yount sends MUCOM the letter "Procurement Program,5.56mm Ammunition for AR-15 Rifles."

The HEL publishes "Ability of Shooters to Gauge Two-RoundBursts From the AR-15 Rifle."

McNamara and Secretary Vance visit Fort Benning and witness a

demonstration of SPIW prototypes. McNamara expresses the hopethat 1,000 SPIW can be procured and sent to South Vietnam fortesting. McNamara's escorts talk him out of the idea on the groundsthat a large procurement of any specific prototype model wouldeffectively prejudice the SPIW competition.

August: WECOM releases a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for theproduction and delivery of the AR-15 rifle. Included in the RFQ is aprovision to obtain a complete TDP for the rifle along withmanufacturing rights for second-source procurement. This will alsoeliminate the 15 percent royalty paid for spare parts. In addition,quotes are requested for repair parts, the M3 Bipod, Bipod Case, M7Bayonet, and the Cleaning Brush and Pin Remover Tool.

Frankford personnel submit study to TCC regarding primersensitivity level versus risk of slam-fires:

None Fire - All Firelimits

Risk ofSlam-Fire

16-64 in-oz1 In 10million

12-60 in-oz (Currentsensitivity limit for7.62mm NATO)

1 in 160

12-48 in-oz1 in6,400

14-56 in-oz1 in11,000

The TCC formally approves the change in the AR-15's rate of twist.


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"Cartridge, 5.56mm Ball, M193" is officially type-classified. Pushedby OSD over the objections of the TCC, it specifies the Remington-designed projectile, a muzzle velocity of 3,250fps, IMR 4475powder, and the existing average 52,000psi pressure limit.Remington, Olin, and Federal Cartridge all refuse to offer bids. Olinobjects to certain specifications on cartridge case wall thickness andto the specifications of IMR 4475 propellant. Remington objects tothe same case specifications and recommends that the prescribedmaximum mean chamber pressure be increased from 52,000psi to53,000psi. Federal Cartridge expresses the view that the maximummean chamber pressure should be raised to 54,000psi.

Remington and Olin-Winchester representatives meet at FrankfordArsenal to discuss possible relaxation of primer sensitivity limits.They are reluctant to accept any limits other than 12-60 in-oz.Frankford indicates that this is unacceptable. Remington countersthat a 12-48 in-oz limit will result in rejection of 50 percent of theprimers. Olin-Winchester's predictions are far worse, estimating that

2 out of 3 primer production lots will be rejected. This is lateramended to estimate rejection of 90 percent of the primers.

Program authority is granted for the procurement of an additional104 million rounds.

Frankford Arsenal sends a letter titled "Engineering Program for5.56mm (AR-15) Ammunition."

The Army Staff informs LTC Yount that the primer sensitivity limitscontained in the ammunition specifications cannot be acceptedbecause of the risk of inadvertent fire. The Army Staff prefersprimer sensitivity limits of 16 to 64 inch-ounces. LTG Besson statesthat the only practical solution is to modify the weapon.Consequently, Colt develops and submits for test two modificationsof the firing pin. These are a linear spring device and a cam pinfriction device to reduce firing pin energy on bolt closure.

Both the USAF and USMC submit position papers on the bolt closuredevice issue. USAF BG Harry E. Goldsworthy, the Director ofProduction from Office of the Deputy Chief of Staff - Systems and

Logistics, indicates that neither the Springfield or Colt bolt closuredevice designs are acceptable. USMC Chief of Staff LTGWallace M.

Greene, Jr.states that the Springfield bolt closure device isunacceptable. Moreover, the device is considered to be non-essential.

Colt counsel H.H. Owen states that the Colt-Fairchild agreementdoes not allow Colt to negotiate TDP rights. The Government wouldneed acquire TDP rights directly from Fairchild. In negotiations, J.C.Linnberg indicates that a price of $112 per rifle would be acceptableto the government. Linnberg further advises that Colt offer anincentive type contact as an alternative.
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J.C. Linnberg writes memo titled "AR-15 Procurement." Linnbergindicates that Yount had been consulted as to the attitude of higherauthority regarding rifle delivery of 5,000 versus 10,000 per month.Yount indicated that he was instructed to pursue 10,000 rifles permonth for mobilization capability. Yount was then asked tosubstantiate the need of the higher rate as it would result inincreased costs. Yount declined to do so as it would involve classifieddocuments.

Colt ultimately rejects the Army's RFQ on the issues of providing theTDP and manufacturing rights. Colt President David Scott states thatthey will only consider providing the TDP and manufacturing rights ifthe government orders more than 500,000 rifles.

The CDC publishes "Troop Tests of Special Purpose IndividualWeapon (SPIW)."

October: Colt threatens to dismantle the AR-15 production line due

to the lack of an official contract for further orders.

A meeting is held in the office of the ASA(I&L) Ignatius regardingColt's refusal to negotiate manufacturing rights for production of theAR-15. Also in attendance are DASA(I&L) Tyler Port, MG James A.Richardson III - OASA(I&L), MG Elmer J. Gibson - AMC Director ofProcurement and Production, COL Williams - OASA(I&L), COL WalterJ. Woolwine - Executive Officer OASA(I&L), LTC Frank A. Hinrichs -OASA(I&L), LTC Arthur G. Moors - Project Manager Staff Officer -AR-15 Rifle, and AMC General Counsel Kendall Barnes. Afterconsulting with DASD James N. Davis by phone, ASA Ignatiusadvises deleting the RFQ's requirement for the TDP andmanufacturing rights for FY 1964 procurement. However, theseshould still remain an issue for follow-on procurements. LTG Bessonis informed of the change, and he concurs with the decision. MGLynde and LTC Yount are advised to proceed as advised.

Secretary Vance sends McNamara a memo titled "AR-15 Rifle."Vance indicates continuing disagreement between the services overthe bolt closure device. However, Colt is said to have a promisingdesign. Also discussed is the slam-fire issue. Vance notes that Colt is

offering a new firing pin design with a spring. Vance recommendsdelaying the AR-15 contract award by two months to allow for

additional tests be made on each of Colt's designs.

McNamara replies to Secretary Vance in another memo titled "AR-15 Rifle." Given imminent closure of Colt's production line,procurement must go forward. The USAF can get the AR-15 withoutthe bolt closure device, and the Army can have their own version.However, if testing indicates that the bolt closure device is notnecessary, the Army can switch to the USAF version.

MG Lynde is briefed regarding the on-going price negotiations with


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Colt. MG Lynde approves the current prices and directs thepreparation of an award approval for submission to his superiors.

MG Lynde then appoints his deputy BG Anderson as the contractingofficer on an one-time basis for the upcoming award to Colt. MGLynde explains that he will be absent at the contract award.

WECOM sends the memo "Submission for Approval of Award ofContract for Rifles, 5.56mm, M16" to Secretary Vance.

The USAIB publishes the report "Product Improvement Test ofArmaLite AR-15 Rifle (Test of Bolt Assist Device)."

The USAF orders 19 million rounds of MLU-26/P from Remington.Soon afterwards, Remington asks for permission to substituteWC846 for IMR 4475.

MUCOM suspends procurement of 5.56mm ammunition overcontinuing issues of primer sensitivity.

The BRL publishes "An Effectiveness Evaluation of the AR-15Rifle with a Muzzle Attachment and Comparison with OtherRifle Concepts."

The USAF and Aberdeen each order a pair of Stoner 63 for testing.

Springfield's contractor for the multi-shot SPIW grenade launchercompletes fabrication and test firing of its first prototype. The testsreveal magazine and extractor problems. In addition, the sightingand triggering methods require correction for satisfactory use at anyangle of elevation. Moreover, the weight of the prototype is wellabove the estimate, and the potential for weight reduction appearslimited without the use of lighter materials. The contractor isrequested to investigate the use of magnesium and plastic. Thedates of launcher delivery is rescheduled to fit in with therescheduled SPIW rifle delivery dates.

November: The US Army awards Colt with a $13,296,923.41contract for 104,000 rifles. DA-11-199-AMC-508 includes 19,000M16 for the USAF and 85,000 XM16E1 for the Army and Marines.

(Ironically, this "one-time" buy will be amended multiple times overthe next two years from 104,000 to a grand total of 201,045 rifles.)

Rifle deliveries are to begin in March 1964 and end in April 1965.Eleven modifications are made to the rifle design prior to the start ofproduction.

Aberdeen's D&PS publishes the report "Product ImprovementTest of Bolt Assist Devices for Rifle, Caliber .223, AR-15."Three models of charging handle bolt assist devices for the AR-15rifle were evaluated for effectiveness in manual extraction and boltclosure operations. A plunger-type bolt closure device was alsoevaluated. The devices were tested for operation under various


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Primer composition is noted as a possible cause. The ingredients inquestion are antimony sulfide and calcium silicide.

The Air Force Marksmanship School publishes "Evaluation of M16Modification - Firing Fin Retaining Devices."

After a comparison of all tests done by the Army, USAF, and Colt ismade, the TCC agrees to adopt a modified lighter firing pin.

CDC sends to ACSFOR LTG Harrell a letter titled "Machine Gun forRifle Platoons."

Engineering tests of the Stoner 63 begin at Aberdeen.

AAI delivers three Model #4 fixtures to Springfield.

1964...

ArmaLite goes on a marketing blitz trying to promote their new AR-

18. Testing of 10 rifles is performed at H.P. White, Aberdeen ProvingGrounds, and Fort Benning (for the Infantry Board).

AR-15 co-designer, Robert Fremont rejoins Colt.

Remington commercially introduces the .223 Remington. Remingtonalso provides the first XM195 grenade launching blanks.

The Historical Evaluation and Research Organization (HERO)publishes "Historical Trends Related to Weapon Lethality."

The USAF's Lackland Military Training Center publishes the report "AComparison of the Training Suitability of the AR-15 Rifle andM2 Carbine." The results obtained from the scores fired by basicairmen with no previous military marksmanship training revealedthat both the AR-15 and M2 are satisfactory training weapons,although the AR-15 is superior to the reconditioned M2 carbine usedin the study. More airmen qualify at both the minimum and expertscore on the AR-15 than on the M2. Data concerning the weaponmalfunction and failure rate revealed that the malfunction rate forthe AR-15 was 1 in 783 rounds (total rounds fired: 50,698), and forthe M2, 1 in 449 rounds (total rounds fired: 50,707). Neither ofthese rates is considered unsatisfactory for training purposes.

Marine Corps Landing Force Development Center publishes thereport "Stoner 63 Weapons System." A service and troop test wasconducted on the Stoner 63 weapons system to determine itssuitability for use within the USMC as the basic weapon and/orweapons system. The tests were also to evaluate the operationaland organizational concepts, doctrine, tactics, and techniquesaffected by this weapons system. It is concluded that upon thecorrection of several deficiencies, the Stoner 63 weapons system willbe suitable for use within the USMC as the replacement system for


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the present M14, M14(M), M60, and M3A1 weapons.

Uzi Gal begins work on a 5.56mm rifle. It is based on an earlier7.62mm NATO prototype he had designed in hopes of replacing theFN FAL.

HK and CETME begin joint experimentation in micro caliber assaultrifle cartridges (i.e., calibers smaller than 5.56mm). Effortseventually concentrate on a 4.6x36mm cartridge (sometimesreferenced as the 4.56mm.)

Rheinish-Westfalische Sprengstoff (RWS) introduces the 5.6x57mmRWS. Using a necked down 6.5x57mm Mauser case, the cartridge isdesigned to meet West German regulations for minimum retainedenergy at 200m for use in hunting roe deer and chamois. Bothrimmed and rimless versions are produced.

January: Secretary of the Army Vance is appointed DeputySecretary of Defense. Under Secretary of the ArmySteven Ailesis

appointed to replace Vance as Secretary of the Army.

A meeting is held at Frankford Arsenal with representatives of thethree cartridge producers (Remington, Olin, and Federal Cartridge),DuPont, USAF, and Army to review the requirements of theammunition TDP. DuPont complains that it must manufacture lots ofIMR 4475 that will develop a maximum mean chamber pressure2,000psi less than that permitted to cartridge manufacturers.DuPont also expresses concern as to whether or not the companycan consistently meet a chamber pressure limit increased by only1,000psi. However, there will be no problem in supplying enoughpropellant to load one million rounds. The Army agrees to changethe cartridge case drawing to reflect the new dimensions proposedby Remington, because Remington maintains that its first drawingshad been misinterpreted by the Army. In addition, the Army agreesto a temporary waiver for the M193 pressure specs for only thisorder. The average chamber pressure limit for the powder isincreased to 51,000psi, and the limit for cartridges is increased to53,000psi, with individual rounds allowed to test as high as60,000psi.

The rifle contract is modified to incorporate the bolt closure device inthe XM16E1. Also added are the lightened firing pin and T-shaped

charging handle. The number of XM16E1 is reduced by 750 rifles,but an equal number of M16 is added to the contract. The contract isnow worth $13,671,195.91.

The TCC meets at Frankford Arsenal. Frankford Arsenal receivespermission to test production lots of 25,000rds loaded withalternative powders. If one or more types of powder are selected,contractual changes will be made instead of specification changes.Candidates include DuPont's CR 8136, Hercules' HPC-10, and Olin'sWC846. (The latter was then in use by Olin for military production of
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stephen_Aileshttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stephen_Aileshttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stephen_Aileshttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stephen_Ailes


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7.62x51mm ammunition, just as Remington had once done with IMR4475.) The TCC is reluctant to allow Olin to submit WC846. Olin isdirected to argue its case with the AMC's Director of Research andEngineering.

LTC Yount instructs the Ammunition Procurement and SupplyAgency that it should accept at least two of the bids for ammunitionproduction if the costs can be justified.

In a memo titled "FY64 Ammunition Procurement Program -XM16E1 Rifle," LTC Yount notifies LTG Besson of the difficulty theArmy is having in obtaining responsive bids for the manufacture ofthe initial one million rounds of the 150 million total rounds requiredin FY 1964.

WECOM releases "Technical Development Plan - SpecialPurpose Individual Weapon." The weapon specifications are quiteoptimistic: less than 10 pounds while loaded with a minimum ofthree grenades (increased from a single grenade) and sixty flchette

cartridges. The grenade launcher is desired to be a semi-automaticrepeater.

Frederick Reed files a patent application for an improved variation ofRichard Colby's front-to-back tandem magazine used by Springfield

Armory's 1st Gen. SPIW.

Fabrique Nationale begins development of a "Mini-FAL" in 5.56mm.

February: A purchase order is placed with Olin-Winchester for13,000 rounds of XM197 High Pressure Test. This will satisfyacceptance test requirements through June 1964 based uponcurrent delivery schedules.

In a memo titled "FY 64 Procurement 5.56mm BallAmmunition," PMSO AR-15 MAJ Robert C. Engle notes that thecurrent three bids for M193 ammunition will be 5 million short of the150 million rounds required by the US Army and USAF (131 millionand 19 million, respectivly).

The Boston Army Procurement District notifies Colt that their general

quality control plan and detailed written manual satisfy therequirements of specification MIL-Q-9858 as well as other applicable

requirements. The manual was reviewed by representatives of theWECOM, LTC Yount's office and the Boston Army ProcurementDistrict.

WECOM subsequently notifies the Boston Army Procurement Districtthat in developing their inspection plan, when verification resultsreflect consistently poor or inadequate inspection by the contractor,the government representative will not increase product inspectionbut will take the following action: 1) Defer acceptance of product; 2)Immediately notify the Contracting Officer; and 3) Assure corrective


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action is taken by the contractor before resuming acceptance ofproduct.

The US Army awards contracts to Remington and Olin to supply500,000 M193 cartridges apiece under the waiver.

The US Army requests the submission of candidate powders fortesting. For the sake of uniformity, samples of the three powdersare ultimately sent to Remington for loading in complete cartridges.

LTC Yount writes several letters to the BRL and Edgewood Arsenal'sDirector of Medical Research urging early completion of stability andlethality studies of the Sierra bullet. In a letter titled "Evaluation ofSierra Configuration Cal. .223 Bullet," LTC Yount requests thatthe BRL prepare a test plan designed to provide data to helpdetermine which bullet design to adopt.

Later in the month, the US Army awards additional contracts forM193 ammunition: Olin - 77,880,000 rounds, Remington -

57,000,000, and Federal - 15,000,000. Mr. Bowie of Remington'sGovernment Sales Division writes the USAF's Director ofProcurement and Production. Bowie thanks him for his willingness toapprove alternative propellants to WC846 for use in 5.56mmammunition. The stated reason is to prevent dependence upon asingle powder manufacturer or type.

In preparation for his pending retirement, MG Lynde seeks theopinion of US Army Adjutant General MG Joe C. Lambert regardingan offer of employment from Fairbanks Whitney Corp., the parentcompany of Colt. He states that in his proposed employment, he willnot engage in any activity regarding US Government purchases ofthe M16.

Frankford Arsenal draws up specifications for the XM196 Tracer.

An US Army report recommends that Springfield Armory be declaredexcess to the Army's needs. Its duties would be transferred to RockIsland Arsenal.

Colt applies for permission to use 325 bolts lacking a drain hole.

WECOM releases the completed SPIW Technical Development Plan

(TDP).

AAI publishes "Research & Development on .22 Caliber ArrowAmmunition."

Springfield's Alfred L. Montana files a patent application for thelockwork for the Universal Machine Gun (UMG).

At the request of WECOM. Springfield tests the AAI Model #4fixtures with lubricated cartridges.


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March: MG Lynde retires from the Army. BG Anderson takescommand of WECOM.

Colt's monthly shipment of rifles is detained because of inadequaciesin the Colt's quality assurance program. Areas requiring correctionsare gauge calibration, the inspection system, and the identificationand condition of materiel in process.

Twenty XM16E1 are delivered to the AMC's Test and EvaluationCommand (TECOM) for comparison testing with the SPIWprototypes. Ten of the rifles are equipped with a Springfield-designed muzzle brake and five of these are also fitted with a newtwo-round burst device developed by Colt.

Remington and DuPont withdraw IMR 4475 from future use in5.56mm ammunition.

The BRL recommends to LTC Yount that no tests be scheduled to

define the performance of the Sierra configuration bullet, on thebasis that extensive data was already available for rifle bullets. TheBRL notes that if Sierra's original bullet design is used instead ofRemington's own design, the rifle's twist rate will need to bechanged from 1-in-12" to 1-9.5". The BRL further advises thatdespite an increase in retained velocity, a review of data indicatesthat there will be little increase in lethality if the Sierra bullet ischosen. They see no justification for the concurrent investigation ofall the aspects of performance defined by LTC Yount but feel that asmall scale effort could be undertaken to examine wound ballistics ifrequired. A complete study will require procuring new barrels with afaster rifling twist and another three months of experimentation.

Colt discovers that six out of 10 XM16E1 rifles will exceed the 650-850rpm cyclic rate requirements when tested with ammunitionloaded with WC846. In contrast, only one of 10 rifles exceed850rpm when using ammunition loaded with IMR 4475. Colt'srepresentative, Mr. Hutchins, informs the TCC of this development,and notes that rifles for the initial delivery of 300 had to behandpicked to find those which could pass the cyclic rate testing.Since this practice could not continue for larger delivery lots, Colt

asks the TCC that the maximum cyclic rate limit for the XM16E1 beraised to 900rpm. (The USAF has already done so for their M16

rifles, as they had already accepted production lots of ammo loadedwith WC846.) No increase in allowable malfunctions duringacceptance testing is requested by Colt, as the increase in cyclic ratewas not recognized as a source of rifle malfunctions. In themeantime, Colt will experiment with different spring rates to helpmaintain a cyclic rate of 650-850rpm.

The TCC's USAF representative William Aumen presents USAFendurance testing data from FY 1963 procurement. The first 27 riflestested displayed a malfunction rate of 1 per 3,000 rounds. The last


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prospect of less than a millimeter of plastic keeping the weaponfrom blowing up in their face.

Colt's Karl R. Lewis begins design work on a 40mm grenadelauncher for the M16.

April: LTC Yount's office releases a staff study indicating that thechange to the Sierra bullet would require a change in rifling twist to1 in 10". This change would then require replacing all existingbarrels in rifles and spares stocks, along with replacing all existingstocks of M193 ammunition. In view of the pending qualification ofalternative propellants, LTC Yount cancels further testing of theSierra bullet by the BRL.

The TCC grants a monthly waiver of the cyclic rate maximum to900rpm. In an internal company report, "Chamber and Gas PortPressures," Colt's Foster Sturtevant notes an increase in pressureat the gas port when using WC846 versus IMR 4475. However,Sturtevant claims that the higher gas port pressures are "in no way

harmful to the AR-15" and may even lead to more positivefunctioning of the rifle.

Aberdeen's D&PS publishes the report "Product ImprovementTest of Modified AR-15 Rifles." This report describes the tests offive AR-15 rifles which incorporated the following modifications: thecharging handle grip enlarged, the bolt closure-device plunger-headarea increased, and three firing pins with inertia retarding devices.The weapons with modified parts were subjected to adverseconditions and endurance tests. Data recorded during testingindicate the charging handle and bolt closure device functionedsatisfactorily; however, minor design and fabrication changes arerecommended to increase the serviceability of the parts. A firing pininertia retarding device appears to be unnecessary.

The USAF rejects an initial production sample of M193 ammunitionfrom Olin-Winchester because it fails to meet their 500ydpenetration requirements (0.135" of mild steel). The USAF is urgedto reduce the plate penetration requirement to 450 yards. Theammunition is shipped to Frankford Arsenal for final pre-productionlot testing. Frankford is verbally told by the Ogden Air Materiel Area

(OAMA) that the USAF will not approve a performance deviation.

Remington advises Frankford Arsenal that it does not have enoughIMR 4475 propellant to complete the original 500,000 round contractand that it will be short 19,000 rounds.

Aberdeen's D&PS publishes "Engineer Design Test of AlternatePropellants for Use in the 5.56mm Ball Cartridge, M193."

Frankford Arsenal notifies Olin, Remington, and Federal that both CR8136 and WC846 will be approved as permissible alternates to IMR4475 in the loading of 5.56mm M193 ball ammunition.


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Frankford Arsenal submits the memo "Tests of Samples fromFirst Million Production of 5.56mm M193 Ammunition." Sincefuture production would be loaded with CR 8136 or WC846propellant rather than IMR 4475, the testing of the samples lots of25,000 rounds already delivered from each manufacturer will belimited to a simulated acceptance test. This will be similar to thosefor normal production lots of ammunition, except that the functionand casualty tests will be omitted.

Army Chief of Staff General Wheeler directs that the Army Staffexamine the alternatives for rifle procurement and distribution toinsure maximum readiness of US troops. For the study, it is to beassumed that no more M14 rifles will be procured in peacetime.

Colt applies for and is granted permission to use 4,100 bolts lackinga drain hole and 106 barrels with a 0.010" oversized chamfer on themuzzle.

The HEL publishes "Human Factors Evaluation of the Stoner 63Assault Rifle."

Firing trials of the three remaining SPIW candidates begins at FortBenning. Winchester's "soft recoil" SPIW rifle design is deemed toocomplicated. The barrel reciprocates within the stock housing (in afashion similar to the more recent HK G11 and AN94), but thereceiver length is too short to allow a three round burst to becompleted prior to the action bottoming out within the receiver. Incontrast, Winchester's blow-forward grenade launcher is very

popular due to its relatively compact dimensions. A single trigger inconjunction with a special selector button controls both the rifle andgrenade launcher function. Given the rifle's unreliability in adversecondition trials, Winchester later drops the rifle project. However,they will continue to develop the grenade launcher under contract toSpringfield Armory.

Springfield Armory's SPIW is a bullpup design with a unique tandemmagazine arrangement. A pair of 30 round magazine bodies arearranged back to back in a single assembly. The mechanism allowsthe rounds of the rear magazine to be held in reserve until theforward magazine runs dry. A tab in the forward magazine's followerthen raises the rear magazine high enough to allow its rounds to

feed. The designer, Richard Colby, could not get a conventional 60round box magazine to feed reliably given the weapon's high cyclicrate. (AAI and Winchester used drum magazines, while H&R used atape belt.) In any case, a conventional box design would have beenexcessively tall, causing problems during use in prone firing

positions. The Springfield SPIW passes the length restrictions, but itexceeds the weight requirement by roughly four pounds. This is in

part due to their massive magazine-fed grenade launcher design.

The AAI entry is a very slick package given how crude their previous


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APHHW prototypes were. Their 1961 weight predictions are found tobe optimistic (by about 10 pounds), but their predicted cyclic rate ismet and exceeded at 2,400 rpm. However, their grenade launchermodule is not semi-automatic. Instead, AAI has settled on a lessbulky lever-action mechanism.

It is painfully clear that none of the weapons are very reliable. TheSpringfield SPIW has a Mean Rounds Between Stoppage (MRBS) of21.3. AAI's entry manages a MRBS of 23.5, and Winchester's SPIWbrings in the rear with a MRBS of 10.8. The grenade launchers areeven worse. The best MRBS is posted by the Springfield design at12.9. AAI's launcher runs 4.66 MRBS, and Winchester once again

pulls up the rear with a MRBS of 2.1.

The CRDL issues the report "Wound Ballistics of the 18.4 GrainBimetallic Flchette."

Picatinny Arsenal publishes "Terminal Effects of Flechettes."

May: LTG Besson is promoted to General. He is the first US Armyofficer to achieve that rank as head of a logistical organization inpeacetime.

LTC Yount attempts to have a five to seven minute briefingdeveloped regarding the tactical use of the XM16E1 for the NewMateriel Introductory Team's presentation. CONARC and the CDCeach deny responsibility for developing related training materiel. ThePMSO brings the AMC's Training Division into play to try to resolvethe issue.

At Frankford Arsenal, William C. Davis and Charles E. Schindlerrelease "Tenth Memo Report on AR-15, Rifle/AmmunitionSystem: Investigation of Alternate Propellants For Use in5.56mm M193 Ball Ammunition." CR 8136 and WC846 arerecommended for use. However, they also note that these powdersexhibit slightly higher pressure levels at the AR-15's gas port thandid IMR 4475. This said, no sound gas port pressure criteria haveyet been established for the AR-15. HPC-10 is declined due toexcessive pressures at extremely low (Arctic) temperatures andprevious issues of bore erosion with tubular grain propellants. Before

the report is even released, the two recommended powders areapproved for use in M193 production. The suggested "None Fire/All

Fire" primer tolerance of 12 to 48 inch-ounces is also included in thetechnical data package, despite Colt's transition to a lighter firingpin.

Production of M193 ammunition with IMR 4475 ends at Remingtonafter 1 million rounds have been loaded. At the end of the month,Colt receives their last batch of IMR 4475 loaded ammunition for usein rifle acceptance testing.

The US Army begins issue of XM16E1 rifles.


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In the DCSLOG report "Study of Rifle Readiness," the authorsstate that will be "no more procurement of XM16E1 (AR-15) riflesafter the FY 1964 buy of 85,000." It recommends that there be noadditional releases of M1 rifles for the Military Assistance Program,the M1 rifles be overhauled for possible use by US troops, and thetesting of M1 conversions to 7.62mm NATO be expedited.

The USAIB issues the report "Product Improvement Test ofXM16E1 Rifles and Associated Items."

Colt President Paul A. Benke presents a specially furnished XM16E1to Army Chief of Staff General Wheeler. At the presentation, Coltunveils their "CAR-15 5.56mm Military Weapons System". Theprojected CAR-15 family includes a pair of AR-15 HBAR lightmachineguns (the magazine-fed M1 and the belt-fed M2), a 15"barreled carbine, a 10" barreled SMG, and a stripped down "survivalrifle" for aircrews. The earliest prototypes of the CAR-15 SMG andcarbine use cut-down M16 triangular forearms and buttstocks. As an

added feature, the chopped buttstock of the SMG has a latchrecessed in the buttplate, which allows the buttstock to be extendedor retracted. These models retain the early AR-15 Model 01's openflashhiders. Colt also introduces the belt-fed "Light Machine Gun5.56mm CMG-1." However, the CGL-4 40mm grenade launcher,designed Robert E. Roy and Karl R. Lewis, attracts the mostfavorable attention, particularly from General Wheeler. This officialinterest starts the ball rolling again for an add-on grenade launcherfor the XM16E1.

On behalf of the US Army, Charles F. Packard files a patentapplication for the design of a combination charging handle/boltclosure device for the XM16E1.

Colt submits two RTA requesting permission to revise drawings for58 parts to improve the component parts and to eliminate certainmalfunctions.

The Marine Corps Landing Force Development Center publishes"Requirement for a Close Support Weapon at the RifleCompany Level."

Aberdeen files a report concerning its testing of the Stoner 63.

In support of Frankford Arsenal, Springfield performs limitedammunition tests of XM110 cartridges with increased body diametercases.

June:General William C. Westmorelandreplaces General Harkins asthe commander of MACV.

The report, "Study of Rifle Readiness," is forwarded to GeneralWheeler by DCSLOG LTG Colglazier.
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AMC General Counsel Kendall Barnes sends a letter to Coltattempting to reopen negotiations on licensing rights for the M16.Barnes hopes that licensing rights can be added in a modification tothe existing contract.

Frankford Arsenal releases the "Eleventh Memo Report on AR-15,Rifle/Ammunition System." This involves an investigation of gasport pressure limits.

The US Army awards an additional $2,240 to Colt for 20 M16. This isin response to a US Coast Guard MIPR. The Army also awards$1,651.72 for six additional repair part line items.

The first documented incidents of case head separations and rimpull-through are recorded.

Remington's preproduction ammunition sample is qualified.

Federal Cartridge fails to submit their pre-production sample forapproval, and as a result will default on delivery of 200,000 M193cartridges. LTC Yount examines the possibility of terminating thecontract or obtaining fines for late delivery. While the Director ofMateriel Readiness studies the impact of the shortage, Yountattempts to fill the production gap with deliveries from the othermanufacturers. Olin picks up the slack with accelerated production.

Development of blank cartridges and blank firing adapters is stoppeddue to lack of R&D funds.

Arthur Miller files a patent application for the gas system andoperating rod for the AR-18.

Winchester officially introduces the .225 Winchester. Intended as areplacement for the .220 Swift, the cartridge is roughly an improved.219 Zipper with a rim sized to fit a .30'06 bolt face.

On behalf of the US Army, Frederick Reed receivesUS Patent#3,136,213 titled "Two-stage Tandem Type Feeding Mechanism forFirearms."

July: Army Chief of Staff General Wheeler is appointed Chairman of

the Joint Chiefs of Staff. GeneralHarold K. Johnsonbecomes thenew Chief of Staff of the Army.

Under Secretary of the Army Paul R. Ignatius writes GeneralJohnson that he and Secretary Ailes would like to review the Army'srifle program with particular emphasis on two questions:

1. If it becomes necessary in the near term to place neworders, would we resume M14 production, increase M16

production, or some combination of the two?
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2. What is the status of current planning for the SPIW? Towhat extent are we considering other weapons such asthe M16 with its available attachments or the Stonersystem, in lieu of the SPIW?

General Johnson approves the ACSFOR and DCSLOGrecommendations for rifle procurement, provided that improved oralrationale and appropriate viewgraph slides are presented to support

the position taken. The Army position should be based upon:

1.Applicable concepts of the CDC's Army Requirements forDirect Fire Weapons Systems (ARDFIRE) study;

2. Weapon and ammunition system lethality;

3. Basic input data to the January 1963 DCSOPS study"Rifle Evaluation: A Comparative Evaluation of theU.S. Army Rifle M14, the Armalite AR-15, and theSoviet Rifle AK-47"; and

4.An explanation of the purpose and functional role of the

rifle as an Army weapon.

General Besson sends a letter to General Johnson titled "DCSLOGStudy of Rifle Readiness." Besson states that the XM16E1 realizesat least 50 percent of the improvement that the SPIW generatesover the M14. The cost of the XM16E1 system (includingammunition) will be a little less than the M14 for equivalentproduction rates. However, the SPIW System will cost at least 25percent more than the M14. Moreover, the XM16E1 can be madeavailable in production quantities four years sooner than SPIW.

Colt's Foster Sturtevant files a patent application for the forward-assist mechanism.

The buffer assembly is shortened by 3/32".

The OCRD releases a fact sheet titled "Delay in TypeClassification of Special Purpose Individual Weapon." The

predicted date for type-classification is pushed back from 1965 to1967, with deliveries to troops even further delayed to the early1970s.

Mass production of flchette cartridges is simulated. Construction of

the flchette itself is noted to be very labor intensive.

Richard Colby receivesUS Patent #3,140,554 titled "DoubleTandem-Arranged Magazine Feeding Device."

The OCRD files a report concerning Stoner 63 testing.

August: MG Lynde (Ret.) is hired as an executive consultant by ColtIndustries.
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Remington delivers M193 cartridges loaded with DuPont CR 8136.Testing at Colt results in lower cyclic rates. The monthly acceptancewaiver on maximum cyclic rate is rescinded.

General Johnson approves the revised ACSFOR/DCSLOGpresentation on the Army rifle program.

General Besson informs the Chief of Research and Development LTGWilliam W. Dick, Jr.that in his view the type classification date forthe SPIW will slip from December 1965 to January 1967. He baseshis opinion upon the most recent performance of the test

prototypes, which had indicated a high malfunction rate and anunacceptably high noise level. Moreover, the need for a workablemuzzle brake had yet to be met.

In a letter intended to refute General Besson's arguments of amonth earlier, DCSLOG LTG Lawrence J. Lincoln, Jr. writes:"For the past several years we have fought off any solution whichwould commit the Army to another interim weapon which could

hinder the development of a greatly improved individual weapon inthe 1965-70 time frame. If a caliber .223 weapon is to be selectedas the successor to the 7.62mm M14, it should be the best caliber.223 weapon available and one which fills the quantum improvementqualification. This could possibly be the AR-18, the Stoner 63 orsome other design. Such a decision cannot be made until the futureof the SPIW is clear."Army Secretary Ailes is briefed by DCSLOG LTG Lincoln and ACSFORLTG Harrell concerning the Army's rifle plans. The Army Staffrecommends:

1. If procurement of rifles is authorized in the immediate

future the Army should resume production of M14 ratherthan M16 production or a combination of M14 and M16

production. Additional M14 procurement will allow theArmy to further reduce the logistical problems associatedwith multiple caliber ammunition requirements for smallarms.

"At this point in time, prior to the availability of aquantum improvement in individual weaponry, the ArmyStaff believes the M14 rifle to be the-best weaponacceptable for general use."The M14 is the only U.S. rifle which fires the 7.62mmNATO standard ammunition. Unless there is a quantumimprovement in individual weaponry, it is desirable from alogistical point of view that all units planning fordeployment to Europe be equipped with basic weaponsfiring NATO standard ammunition."

2. There are not enough M14 to equip and support the entireactive Army. All units not having special missionrequirements for weapons should be equipped with M14rifles.
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3. The current procurement of 85,000 M16 rifles satisfies theentire requirement for this type of light-weight, smallcaliber weapon. The light weight is considered to be ofoverriding importance for airborne, air assault, andspecial forces units which are being equipped with theserifles. M14 should not be replaced with M16 in any othertype of unit.

4. The Remington caliber .223 round common to all of the5.56mm systems is considered inferior to the 7.62mmNATO standard round in all respects except that ofweight.

5. The SPIW should be the standard individual weapon toreplace the current rifles provided that the forthcomingevaluation of the program results in approval of a SPIWweapon.

They project type-classification of the SPIW in December 1965.Inthe meantime, the Army is continuing to examine several small

caliber rifles as possible replacements for the current standard M14.These include other Colt CAR-15 developments, the Stoner 63family, and the AR-18.

In response, Secretary Ailes directs the Army to prepare a study ofthe resumption of procurement of M14 rifles for presentation toMcNamara. General Johnson passes this job on to DCSLOG LTGLincoln in a memo titled "The Army Rifle Program." GeneralJohnson states that a case should be made for resumption of limitedproduction using one production facility citing the advantages to begained in terms of readiness and cost. They should also note thatthis option renews availability of M1 rifles for the Military AssistanceProgram (MAP).

The same day General Johnson is informed of the slippage of theSPIW type-classification date in a memo from LTG Dick titled"Cancellation of NATO SPIW Demonstration."

The USMC complains directly to General Johnson that their requestsfor procurement of the Stoner 63 are being ignored. At some point,the opinion is expressed that there is "an effort by some Armyindividuals to submerge the program."

Aberdeen's BRL publishes the report "Kinematic Evaluation of theSpecial Purpose Individual Weapon Prototypes." Three

prototype weapons from each of the four contractors were deliveredto BRL for kinematic analysis and evaluation. An extensive series oftests were conducted to furnish data for selecting the prototypewhich would be most advantageous to develop for the SPIW system.

The BRL also publishes "Summary of Test Data andEffectiveness Evaluation of SPIW."


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CDC publishes "Analysis of Operational and OrganizationalConcepts for Special Purpose Individual Weapon (SPIW)."

The HEL publishes "Auditory and Acoustical Evaluation ofSPIW."

The HEL also publishes "Human Factors Evaluation of ThreeSPIW Prototype Weapons."

WECOM HQ requests Springfield to design, develop, and fabricatesingle-shot grenade launchers for the SPIW as a backup to themulti-round launchers. Delivery is requested to be no later thanFebruary 1965. Springfield conceives two types: a side pivot typeand a center pivot type. Under an existing design support contract,Springfield uses an outside facility to design and draft the side pivottype launcher. The fabrication is performed in-house at Springfield.For the center pivot type launcher, Springfield places a new contractfor the design, development, and fabrication of the launcher.Ultimately, the side pivot type launcher is not ready in time for

testing. However, four center pivot type launchers are delivered toFort Benning for evaluation.

September: The 5th Special Forces Group at Fort Bragg submitstheir first monthly field report on the XM16E1. Five of the rifles weredefective as delivered from the factory. One rifle would not accept amagazine due to mismachining of the upper receiver. In anotherrifle, a carrier key screw was missing; its hole was not eventhreaded. The gas tube was bent in another, causing it to batter thecarrier key. Two had the minor issue of being shipped with a M16carrier, which is not notched for the XM16E1 bolt assist. They alsoreport shortages in basic issue items, like magazines, slings, bipods,and cleaning materiel, which were to be shipped with the rifles. It isnoted that the bolt carrier group will rust when exposed to moisture,and they recommend that the Technical Manual be revised toinstruct a light coat of oil for the entire bolt and bolt carrier. Fourfiring pin retaining pins have broken . They also recommend that thefragile M11 cleaning rod be replaced as 49 rods have already brokenat the joints during use. They also request issue of blankammunition and blank firing attachments.

ACSFOR LTG Harrell submits a fact sheet to General Johnson with adescription of the Stoner 63 weapon system and its current status,

noting the limitations of the system cited by WECOM. Theselimitations are insufficient barrel life, weak belt pull, stock breakagewhile launching grenades, insufficient operating energy underadverse conditions, and unreliable tracer functioning in the machinegun.

Frankford Arsenal receives program authority to acquire 20 million5.56mm M193 cartridges for the Army for FY 1965.

Anticipating problems with the commercial case hardness


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specifications, Frankford Arsenal also begins a study of 5.56mmcase hardness.

The USAIB publishes the report "Service Test of Cartridge,Tracer, 5.56MM, XM196."

Colt's Foster Sturtevant files a patent application for a four-positionselector switch mechanism for the CAR-15 family (Safe-Semi-Burst-Auto).

Colt's Karl Lewis and Robert Roy file a patent application for thedesign of the CGL-4.

The BRL publishes "The Aerodynamic Characteristics of aS.P.I.W. Projectile."

October: Colt representatives verbally outline four differentproposals for obtaining the M16 TDP and manufacturing rights:

1. Establishes a price of $5,400,000 plus a 5 percentroyalty. A $10 credit is offered for each rifle ordered. Thisincludes rifles that have already been delivered. Creditwill also be given for spare parts purchases. The TDP willinclude the M16, XM16E1, and two-round burst control,but not blank ammunition, grenade launchers, orgrenades. The TDP will only be delivered after full

payment is made;

2. Provides immediate delivery of the TDP upon cashpayment of $3,600,000, plus a 7.5 percent royalty;

3. Requests the order of 400,000 rifles plus a 5 percentroyalty; and

4. Requests the order of 200,000 rifles, a cash payment of$2,500,000, a guarantee of 50 percent of all future

procurement plus a 4 percent royalty.

Colt also offers a separate proposal for licensing the grenadelauncher.

LTC Yount's ti

the 5.56 x 45mm - 1963 - 1964 - a chronology of development - by daniel watters

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