I've been talking with a former STA buddy (he's still in) and I asked him how he likes the M40A3 vs. the old A1 which I used. I've been out since the Corps switched. He was with 1/8 during the battle of Fallujah. Anyway, he and his plt. didn't like them very much. For those of you who've used them while in the Corps or in combat, are your experiences similar?
Here's what he wrote me: (name witheld)
<span style="font-style: italic">M40A3 is absolutely horrible, Battalions were fighting to keep M40A1 as long as possible. Once it went in for 180 day maintenance they swapped the stocks and screwed everyone. Stock is way too heavy and bulky. If it was strictly a benchrest rifle it would be good but last time I checked we still have to carry our rifles around and shoot from field expedient positions.</span>
His personal opinion from first hand experience.
Here's what he wrote me: (name witheld)
<span style="font-style: italic">M40A3 is absolutely horrible, Battalions were fighting to keep M40A1 as long as possible. Once it went in for 180 day maintenance they swapped the stocks and screwed everyone. Stock is way too heavy and bulky. If it was strictly a benchrest rifle it would be good but last time I checked we still have to carry our rifles around and shoot from field expedient positions.</span>
His personal opinion from first hand experience.