Thought experiment: just how cheaply can the AR be made? (AND STILL WORK)
Hey guys,
I have an awesome book about the last ditch weapons used by the Germans at the end of WWII. The methods they used to cut costs and simplify production were amazing. I was wondering, just what could be done to simplify the production of the M16/Ar15?
1. Cast receivers? I am not sure it would simplify production as much as cut material costs.
2. Cast barrels? This may be pushing it. Does anyone use cast barrels now, or have I missed the boat and most manufacturers are already doing this?
3. Switch back to the original length M16 stock and maybe integrate the receiver extension into the stock? Maybe the stock could then be held onto a receiver plate with simple screws?
4. Mold sling holes into the stock.
5. Mold a sling hole into the handguards, and mold a few rails into the handguard much like the hated SIG 556 handguard (which I was alone in liking).
6. Go Back to A1 sights. Since we are trying to be cheap Aimpoints are out anyway.
7. Maybe integrate a simple elevation screw into the rear sight so the front sight post can be molded into the front sight?
8. Delete the burst and auto feature.
9. Delete the bayonet mount.
10. Integrate the birdcage into the barrel?