Hello,

I was wondering, is it true that the M4 has become the standard small arms weapon for the USMC? If this is true, why did it replace the M16? I was also told by my recruiter that all Marines are given an ACOG scope for their rifle now, is this true as well?

Richard

1. No, the M4 is used less by the Marines than the Army. The Army is replacing almost all of its M16A2's with M4's and M16A4's (mostly just M4's, though). However, the Marine Corps regular infantry uses the M16A4 almost 100% of the time. The only Marines you will see using the M4 are recon, MarSOC spec ops Marines, or officers and NCOs. However, most (but not all) MarSOC marines will get the FN SCAR rifle instead soon.
2. While I'm not sure that they ONLY use the ACOG, yes, all marines use some optic sight on their rifle. Usually an Aimpoint, Reflex, or ACOG.

The Marines tested the M4 and decided to go with the M16A4 instead do to the exta range it offers.
The Army uses both the M4 and M16.

Thanks for the replies