Both Iraqi Police and Insurgents use AK-47s

[ck4829]

Has anyone else noticed that?

Wouldn't a possible step to bringing some form of stability to Iraq include giving the Police just slightly better arms than the terrorists they are fighting?

[Xipe Totec]

1. The only difference is which way they're pointed

I think...

:sarcasm:

[Higans]

2. Why, when you can make a profit off selling weapons to both sides.

Pretty much SOP from what I can gather.

[Solo_in_MD]

3. Would not change a thing

which rifles they carry is not a factor

[madokie]

4. gotta go to bed now but what is a better weapon for killing people

than a ak47

just curious

[slackmaster]

7. Depends on the circumstances

An AK isn't anywhere near as good as an old-fashioned Mauser 98k if your need is killing people at 400 yards.

[krispos42]

12. The M16 could be considered better

But opinions on the matter run hot on both sides :-)

The M16 design is more accurate, and the 5.56mm ammo it fires shoots a hell of a lot flatter. That makes it a more effective long-range weapon as it is both more likely to hit a man-sized target and, because it shoots flatter, minimizes range-estimation errors.

However, the AK design has a lot going for it in terms of simplicity, durability, and reliability.

[mike_c]

5. the Kalashnikov is an awesome assault weapon....

Dependable, can be repaired by blacksmiths, and the world is awash in ammunition for it. It is the general assault weapon of choice for much of the world.

[slackmaster]

6. Hard to find a better general purpose weapon than an AK-47

You can find a rifle that is more accurate, or less expensive, or more powerful; but you can only have one or two of the above and it will come at the expense of ruggedness and reliability.

[Kiouni]

8. can I interest you in an insurgent AK-47

"never been fired only dropped once."

[WannaJumpMyScooter]

9. Psst... let me let you in on a secret.... one I learned

in Viet Nam...

Daytime=Police
Nighttime=Insurgent

[951-Riverside]

10. ...The insurgents also use RPGs, IEDs, Grenades and Motars

I guess we could always equip them with 'tactical nukes'. :D

[krispos42]

11. The Kalishnikov design has a lot going for it

There's a reason it has been around for so long. It is sufficiently accurate and powerful at the majority of combat ranges. It is very very reliable and robust, easy to repair and maintain, and simple to operate. Even relatively uneducated troops can use and maintain it effectivly.

Furthermore, spare parts are everywhere, as is ammunition and accessories.

And, finally...

If the US decided to issue new M-16s, do you really think all that money (about a grand each, give or take) it would require to do this wouldn't turn into a porkfest for Halliburton or other government contractors?