AK & PKM.

This is coolbert:

From a prior blog entry:

"I have often thought that an experiment, the U.S. Army should issue entire units AK's and PKM's . . . Give the troops a quick and dirty lesson in AK and PKM marksmanship and let them have a go at the enemy."

Well, this has happened and is happening right now, as we speak! U.S. troops carrying and using the AK in combat.

NOT sure about Afghan. But in Iraq some U.S. troops are being authorized to carry AK's!

Thanks to Mombu:

"U.S. Troops Use Iraqi AK-47s"

"'in certain circumstances we allow soldiers to have an AK-47. They have to demonstrate some proficiency with the weapon ... demonstrate an ability to use it,'"

In this particular case, American armor troops, normally NOT provided with a full complement of M16 or M4 rifle, the troops allowed to carry an AK if demonstrably showing a proficiency with the weapon, needing additional firepower when confronted with Iraqi insurgents.

Also, from the Iraq conflict, I have seen pictures of U.S. troops carrying the PKM machine gun. Complete with attached scope!

The PKM fires the old-fashioned but very lethal 7.62 X 54 Russian round. The .223 M249 SAW has not provided the desired firepower in city and urban conflicts! Dismounted M240 machine guns are an option, but why not use the alternative PKM when available?

I would think that the entire nation of Iraq is awash with AK and AK ammo. And U.S. forces have captured a long time ago just enormous stockpiles of weaponry that is being used to some extent! Ammunition and spare parts should not be a problem!

Jam proof weapons are available and right now! Perhaps a devoted reader to the blog, on active service right now, experienced in these matters can comment!

coolbert.