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From the forums

SAW FANS SOUND OFF

How is the Infantry Automatic Rifle supposed to carry as much ammo as the Squad Automatic Weapon [“Frontrunner chosen in IAR contest,” Dec. 14]? It looks like it is only good for a 30-round magazine.

A good argument can be made that many SAWs are worn out and need replacing. But the IAR looks like just another assault rifle. It can’t possibly have the same sustained rate of fire as a belt-fed SAW with a heavier barrel. So what will the fire team gain from this transition?

The IAR looks like an overpriced assault rifle with more limited ammo capacity than the SAW.

WEIGHING IN ON PACKS

I have found some faults with the current packs that I hope will not be carried over — mainly, the quick release system [“Replacing your pack,” Dec. 14]. It’s a constant problem. When we returned from deployment two months ago, I watched countless Marines carrying their packs by a handle because the quick-release systems broke. I’ve gone as far as wrapping the straps with duct tape to better secure it, but even still, it tends not to hold for very long.

The old All-purpose Lightweight Individual Carrying Equipment, or ALICE, packs were perfectly adequate, assuming a reasonable gear list.

Those who wear packs on a regular basis, in a deployed environment, should have the biggest voice of all. Being a desk jockey who relies on my computer’s abilities more than my rifle’s, I would hope that those in positions of power have the humility and wisdom to heed experienced combat veterans’ views and not those of Marines like me.

DITCH KITCHEN-on-WHEELS

OK, not to sound too sarcastic, but do we really need an Expeditionary Fighting Kitchen? [“Corps solicits for new expeditionary kitchen,” Dec. 7] How much do you think this painted gut-truck costs? How about spending money on something useful that the Marines need? Like better dining facilities and barracks. … It’s pretty rare for a Marine to eat in an expeditionary kitchen these days. I know they are out there in Iraq and Afghanistan, but give me a break.

Not to hit the Corps while its down, but of all the problems and financial issues we are going through, save yourselves some money and invest in something else.