H&K – The Protest is Over: USMC fields M27 IAR — SHOT Show 2018

Authors Clay Martin Gun Reviews Rifles SHOT Show 2018 Uncategorized

H&K had some small announcements for SHOT Show 2018, as well as a big one. First things, first — let’s talk about the rifle.

USMC Shoots H&K

The protest period has ended, which means H&K has officially received the contract for the USMC to replace the M4 carbines. The H&K model selected is the M27 Infantry Automatic Rifle, a derivative of the famous H&K 416. The M27 features a 16-inch  barrel. This is important for the velocity needed to make 5.56 lethal at that range. It is nice to see the Jarheads getting some nice toys, and some thought put into small arms.H&K - The Protest is Over: USMC fields M27 IAR — SHOT Show 2018

H&K - The Protest is Over: USMC fields M27 IAR — SHOT Show 2018SPECS:

  • Cartridge: 5.56 NATO
  • Barrel length: 16 in.
  • Weight: 7.9 lbs.
  • Gas-operated fully automatic
  • Unit price: $3,000
  • Overall length: 33 in. – 36.3 in.
  • Manufacturer: H&K

H&K Moves to GA

The biggest news is a new H&K factory being built in Georgia, not far from Fort Benning. H&K USA will be designing and building guns directly for the US market in the US now, a huge step. H&K has always had a small but fanatical following, at least in the US. But all the guns they sold were basically military models changed to meet civilian legal requirements. It was a huge deal the first time H&K built a pistol with a US-style magazine release. Now, we can look forward to weapons built specific to the US market, our preferred styles are taken into account. This is going to be nothing but positive for H&K, and I can’t wait to see the first one stamped “ Made in Georgia”.H&K - The Protest is Over: USMC fields M27 IAR — SHOT Show 2018

For more information about H&K, click here.

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  • bill July 22, 2018, 12:50 am

    The M27 is excessively priced for a standard issue weapon for the army.

    Fortunately, the Marine Corps is a smaller component.

    And they run on a doctrine of “every marine a rifleman.” In contrast to the army, where they have found it fit to give every soldier a $700 Colt M4.

    The reality is that the longer barrel length, free floating rail system, short stroke piston, superior build quality, superior barrel and stock of the M27 make it generally a better weapon system for the applications the USMC is going to use it for. They just decided to blow their budget on something your average grunt is going to spend a lot of time carrying.

    The army went the budget route. And it shows.

    The army just likes to spend its money researching advanced combat rifle programs and never actually making a procurement.

    I second that the Adcor system is probably the best from those programs. The M4 is in dire need of some ergonomic upgrades but is definitely serviceable up to the 300 meters the army is asking out of it. I dont know what the hell they are thinking retiring the M16 for infantry units. But this probably explains partially why they will continue using the M249.

    Suffice it to say you could to better than the 416, but at least its socom tested and its a better weapon for an end user than an m4. Hell, I wish they issued me one. I doubt the soldiers are going to complain about it.

  • BillyBob March 19, 2018, 8:33 pm

    gollee gee what happened to all those piston AR’S ! So….I have a Stag model 8L AR-15. I’ve taken it out a few times and for the most part I’ve loved everything about it. The first two times at the range there were no problems, however the third time there were a couple of double feeds and stove pipes. That third time there were four of us and we all shot each others guns. All the malfunctions occurred while my son was shooting the gun and I figured it was because he wasn’t shouldering or holding the gun firmly enough.

    When I got home and cleaned the gun I noticed some pretty severe scarring (or heavy wear marks) in the upper receiver (photo’s below….please forgive my crumby pics…taken with a phone). I don’t recall seeing any of these marks the first two times I shot/cleaned the gun. It looked to me as if the wearing/scarring was from the bolt cam pin. I looked around the net and discovered that it is a common issue with piston driven ARs. I found that POF makes a roller cam specifically for this problem.

    I called both POF and STAG and both persons I spoke with confirmed that this can be a problem for piston driven ARs regardless of manufacturer although neither person I spoke with could tell me specifically why. Stag said they have no problems with owners installing the roller cam pin and it won’t effect the warranty.

    Anyway, the UPS man delivered the Roller Cam Pin today and I installed but have yet to try it out. I thought I’d float this out to the forum and see if anyone has any similar experiences or explanations.
    Thanks,
    JAWZ

    . On average, piston-driven guns are less accurate. This does not mean piston-driven ARs are inaccurate, but, looking over my test records, the most accurate ARs I’ve tested have been those that work with the gas impingement system.

    If you intend to run a suppressor on your AR, it has been my experience that the gas impingement guns are more suppressor-friendly, especially those with an adjustable gas block that allows you to control the amount of gas directed back through the gas tube.

    • bill July 22, 2018, 12:54 am

      Short stroke piston systems strike the anvil on the bcg to actuate it, creating carrier tilt issues.

      Long stroke piston systems like PWS and Adcor BEAR dont have that issue.

      Not sure what you mean by di being more suppressor friendly. Piston systems can have adjustable blocks as well and have less gas going into the receiver. I would be worried about the fouling and the consistency of cycling with a di system and a suppressor, personally.

  • Mark Tercsak February 27, 2018, 1:44 pm

    Let’s talk about American Small Arms manufactures a lot of them do not produce small arms here.
    And have not for quite sometime, Remington which is tanking , produces products nobody wants, have you seen some of their designs ?
    And some of these manufactures will not listen to the people who use there stuff.

    As per H&K pistols they may have the high tech fantastic plastic, but they are all John Moses Browning , such as the USP Model the Mark 23 etc.

    I would like to see them bring back their P7 pistol squeeze cocker.

  • Alan Taggart February 6, 2018, 8:35 am

    The HK is a good weapon, but not sufficiently superior to the Armalite platforms to be worth the logistics problems. Regardless, the military is missing the point.

    The 5.56 round is dead, well past it’s use by date, even if refrigerated.

    Inexpensive, effective, and light weight body armor is all over the world. Even third rate regional powers are issuing it and civilians are buying it left and right. As a consequence, our ground troops are armed with the equivalent of airsoft weapons.

    I don’t know the final solution to the proliferation of effective personal body armor, (which techno battle has been going on since chain mail and bodkin arrow heads,) especially since body armor technology is constantly getting better.

    Currently, the tungsten penetrator in the m933 7.62 AP round will consitently defeat level 4 plate at engagement ranges, as will saboted tungsten submunition 7.62 rounds, which capacity mitigates strongly in favor of the heavier caliber and against the ineffectual 5.56 rd.

    Bigger is better, and that is likely going to continue to be the battlefield mantra until the powers that be should begin seriously considering something besides kenetic energy pills when it comes to ground warfare rifle rounds.

    • Don Whitesall February 10, 2018, 2:37 pm

      I am an Infantry Marine and have seen what 5.56 can do to a human body. Have you? I agree that the 5.56 ball round could be upgraded. If we had a little more grains added to the bullet it would make a difference . But the rounds that are going down range are effective. Once the round hits the body it tumbles and does a hell of a lot of damage.

  • Andrew N. February 4, 2018, 12:47 am

    I am so STUPID! In the late 80’s I was stationed in Hawaii. One of my fellow sailors had his FFL, and offered to get me a HK-91 for $600. Due to issues with previous military moves involving “missing” items, I didn’t trust them to take it off island for me when I left, so I passed. Stupid! Stupid! Stupid! Looking at the prices now, I should have checked into different methods of shipping it, or had it sent to my brother in a gun friendly state. Now they are too expensive, at least for a “real” one.

  • Don Kaufman February 3, 2018, 2:05 pm

    Its 16″ barrel will make the 5.56 lethal at what range? 100 yds., 200 yds.?

  • Bill Weaver February 2, 2018, 7:21 pm

    Clay, I would kill for an H&K 10mm carbine.

  • Tommy Barrios February 2, 2018, 2:25 pm

    WHAT A BUNCH of WHINING CRY BABIES WHO HAVE NO READING COMPREHENSION!
    The $3000 is for the RIFLE SHOWN, the M27 IAR, with ALL the stuff you see in the PICTURE!
    Show me another M16 QUALITY variant with all the stuff shown in FULL AUTO for under $3000!
    Jesus what a bunch of losers!

    • Oaf February 3, 2018, 4:28 pm

      Amen to that! Seems like lately the comments are full of whiny little bitches complaining about anything and everything or bragging “mine is bigger than yours.” Sometimes I think I’ve stumbled upon some Liberal college snowflake page by mistake!

  • mauser6863 February 2, 2018, 2:21 pm

    O.K. Gentlemen, calm down. The actual rifle is likely around $1,200 which is close to the police price. The 3.5x Trijicon optic with the RMR is around $2k street price, plus the vertical foregrip, Larry Vicker’s sling and Harris bipod, plus whatever else comes with the gun. So if you do the math, $3,000 is reasonable.

    So let’s talk about the rifle first. The gun works and has a proven track record and holds up to hard use. Since the Marines are known to get their feet wet once in awhile, the piston system makes sense in comparison to direct impingement. The ability to engage the safety on an empty gun is a nice feature too.

    The bad parts are the weight, its just too heavy. 14.5″ or 16″ barrel really makes no real difference in a fighting rifle, the mistake is the heavy profile, which is likely demanded for barrel mounting the old M203 grenade launcher. The grenade launcher should be rail mounted, not barrel mounted. The reason 14.5″ barrel length was chosen for the M4 was to be able to use the bayonet with proven CAR15/XM177e2 gas system with a conventional A2 Flash Hider. 14.5″ length isn’t a magic length or some super hot sauce, it was a specific solution to a specific problem..

    The barrel twist is 1/7 and is too fast for the current rounds, 1/9 would double the average accuracy of the M885 and M855A1. Again, the 1/7 twist was simply to stabilize the M856 Tracer round used in the M249. Repeating the mistakes of the past, instead of correcting them is a typical bureaucratic mistake, since no one ever gets into trouble for saying “No”. If you’re going to buy a rifle, why not have a barrel for optimal accuracy. The original SS109/M855 was optimized for 1/9.

    The quad rail is ridiculous!!! What year is this!!! The rail needs to be lighter and needs to use M-Lok which has been proven to be better Key Mod and eliminate stupid rail covers and “Cheese Grater” effect. What the Hell is wrong with these people, did they not notice what’s actually going on outside their ivory towers!!! Geissele offers a H&K 416 free floated rail that could have been supplied or licensed to H&K for this rifle.

    Same goes for the Harris bipod for a service rifle. Since the WW2 BAR, soldiers have removed and discarded the bipods the first chance they get. Bipods makes sense on a DMR and “real” Light Machine Gun, but the bipod has no place on a combat rifle.

    Last time I looked, the Marines don’t run around dressed in BLACK, like NINJA’s. So why is the rifle black and not FDE???

    Finally, the Trijicon Optic is first rate and battle proven. Optics are true force multipliers. The 3.5x has better eye relief than the 4x ACOG, but it is bigger and heavier. Same goes for the RMR, awesome optic. The missed opportunity here is not adopting the ACSS reticle system for this optic, which is a huge mistake. Consideration should have been given to adopting the TA44 with the ACSS, as the 1.5 power has superior eye relief, is lighter/cheaper and doesn’t require the batteries or the RMR for CQB, further lightening the rifle. The TA44 allows Marines and Soldiers to effectively engage targets up to 500 yards, which is really the maximum for 5.56 in the real world. More magnification is better sometimes, but not always. Adding an extra 1 lb to the rifle and requiring batteries is not a good idea. The Marine could have opted for offset irons on the rail for ranges from zero to 50 yards, saving weight, lot’s of money compared to the RMR, etc.

    Finally, the stock looks big and heavy. What’s up with 458 Win Mag recoil pad, it’s only 5.56???

    The good news is that, like a lot of government mistakes, “do overs” are possible, waste time and cost lot’s of money. It’s a shame that Marines (like the general officer hated) Raiders didn’t get to spec out this gun. Make not mistake, the SECOPS guys will get what they want, they have the cash and have the flexibility to get the right guns. Heck they even get to use Glock 17/19 without the “super necessary (LOL)” manual safety switch.

    Ounces turn into pounds and if capability and durability is not compromised, lighter is much better.

    Just amazing how the right choices are ignored, again and again. This is a people and a system issue that infects institutions. This is just an example of what it produces vs. what it could have produced. Sad really.

    • DaveGinOly February 2, 2018, 6:27 pm

      You can\’t over-stabilize a bullet (unless the spin rate actually causes it to break up). You can only under-stabilize a bullet. So a faster twist barrel will stabilize all bullet weights, while a slower twist barrel will only stabilize light bullets. That\’s why higher twist rate barrels are far more common today; it\’s presumed the user will want the widest choice possible in the types of bullets his gun will handle.There are many authorities in agreement on this point. For instance, from the Guns and Ammo Guide to AR-15s:
      \”Many people think that a faster-twist barrel will not shoot light bullets accurately and they will be “overstabilized.” This is a myth.\”There are some who claim \”over-stabilization\” will cause FMJ bullets to tumble upon striking a target, but 1.) this does not affect accuracy; 2.) this wouldn\’t affect terminal performance in a bullet not intended to expand (the purpose of all bullets is to deposit energy in a target while creating a wound channel, not zip through and continue flying down range, an indication of energy not deposited in the target); and 3.) I suspect this is a myth too.

  • fritz bousigschouer February 2, 2018, 1:48 pm

    its simple, a complete fail. to expensive, non us made, a battlefield downgrade.

    • Tommy Barrios February 2, 2018, 2:18 pm

      You obviously didn’t READ the article!
      The biggest news is a new H&K factory being built in Georgia, not far from Fort Benning. H&K USA will be designing and building guns directly for the US market in the US now, a huge step. H&K has always had a small but fanatical following, at least in the US. But all the guns they sold were basically military models changed to meet civilian legal requirements. It was a huge deal the first time H&K built a pistol with a US-style magazine release. Now, we can look forward to weapons built specific to the US market, our preferred styles are taken into account. This is going to be nothing but positive for H&K, and I can’t wait to see the first one stamped “ Made in Georgia”.

  • Gunny Wiz MSOT 5 February 2, 2018, 1:32 pm

    American made? WTF? Who’s making these horrible deals for foreign banks. The price is a f___ joke. Glad to be retired. In combat our little 5.56 is a joke compared to the adversary who can out shoot and kill our troops from a rifle that can be built and repaired inside a cave with a few tools. Their price couple hundred or less. They throw lead better than the super power of the world. Been there seen it and felt physically and emotionally. Money makes the Corp go round. Unbelievable!!!

  • Grant Stevens February 2, 2018, 1:02 pm

    Sad that a nation that created military arms like the 1911, BAR, M2, Garand, M14, and many other superior firearms has to turn to a foreign manufacturer to arm its military. Though built in the US, the profits are fattening foreign pockets. JMB is rolling over in his grave.

    • mauser6863 February 2, 2018, 4:23 pm

      I’m not a Huge&K lover, by long shot. However in fairness to them, they are building a real plant here in the U.S. .Hopefully, this will mean we can buy semi-automatic versions of H&K military rifles.

      More foreign owned plants being built in America, employing Americans and paying taxes is good for all.

      If you think H&K is profiting in excess, take a look at their stock performance. Ruger and Smith & Wesson are way better investments and are more profitable. By your logic it must be because they are “Ripping Off” Americans. LOL

    • Irish-7 February 5, 2018, 10:33 am

      I have similar feelings, to buy American. The US Army just awarded the handgun contract to Sig Sauer, now the US Marine Corps goes with a rifle from Heckler & Koch. I have to wonder if either of these contracts would have pulled Colt out of bankruptcy?

  • John Rizer February 2, 2018, 12:33 pm

    Typical rip-off off the taxpayer, period! Ruger can crank em out for $1000! How about M-1A’s. Even high grade stainless M-1A’s are less than $2000! Rather have them in the Middle East Sand Box than a puny .223 prairie dog round anyway! Just Sayin.

  • Kyle February 2, 2018, 11:25 am

    I think the M27 is an all around mistake. The 416 is a little more reliable, but almost 2lbs heavier, and it adds no additional capabilities. While dropping a belt fed SAW for a magazine fed “IAR”. Oh and its as expensive if not more than the SCAR

    • Paul February 13, 2018, 12:04 pm

      Why didnt they just change out the upper on old m4s?? Thats all they needed was a piston gun to shoot when wet.
      PS – M855A1 is a good proven round and a huge improvement over old SS109. I dont think US Military will change calibers in our lifetime. Just keep plenty of SR25 7.62s around and have a designated sniper in each Marine squad for long range engagements.

  • Leonidas February 2, 2018, 10:50 am

    About time devil dogs – doesn’t get better. Ran my first Hk’s in the 80s when in Recon. Been running them since. Larry Vickers needs some credit here for his work with Bringing about this gun back in the day.

    • Pablo February 3, 2018, 1:34 am

      I was in Recon in the 80’s. Where were u stationed?

  • Awesome Bill from Dawsonville February 2, 2018, 10:38 am

    I have no doubt that the M27 is a fine rifle and I can understand how it’s the next evolution in the M16 family. It was initially looked at as an M249 replacement because it’s lighter and more maneuverable in an urban environment. But I’m stumped as to how the Marines intend to entirely eliminate their 249’s since the M27 doesn’t have the ability to quickly change barrels? It seems like two different roles to me. Any feedback would be appreciated.

    • Jonathan February 2, 2018, 11:46 am

      Kinda of odd to see USMC buying even more ‘Spray-n-Pray’ weapons. So much for the Riflemans Creed. “…I must fire my rifle true. I must shoot straighter than my enemy who is trying to kill me. I must shoot him before he shoots me. I will….My rifle and myself know that what counts in this war is not the rounds we fire, the noise of our burst, nor the smoke we make. We know that it is the hits that count. We will hit….”

      Seems like the USMC out to become become Aux. Army Infantry units. 250K rounds used per insurgent killed.

      • mauser6863 February 2, 2018, 4:14 pm

        That works out to $65,000 for every bad guy killed in combat if only using 5.56. I would call that a bargain. I’d spend 10 times that to save 1 American Life.

    • Nick M February 3, 2018, 8:19 am

      ” But I’m stumped as to how the Marines intend to entirely eliminate their 249’s since the M27 doesn’t have the ability to quickly change barrels? It seems like two different roles to me.”

      I’m pretty sure I read everybody in the infantry will carry this, and not just one using the squad automatic weapon. I agree, there should always be a belt fed, but if they all have this, they can spread the wear just like an M134 with 6 barrels.

      • Paul February 13, 2018, 12:07 pm

        Might work if they use 100 rd Beta Mags on the M27 but very bulky. Big mistake to get rid of M249s

  • WILLB February 2, 2018, 10:36 am

    The lower receiver looks like an AR15 (M16). The upper receiver looks like an AR15 (M16). The only difference I can see is they’ve removed the “Colt Manufacturing” logo and replaced it with a “HK.” The biggest difference seems to be the price went from $1500 to $3000. Wait until Trump renegotiates that contract.

    • Allen Lawson February 2, 2018, 11:29 am

      A crazy price for that weapon . Especially with the numbers being purchased .ask H&K to reveal profit per rifle . Yeah I know the song and dance about research testing new facilities bribe money etc .

    • Drew From Kekistan (the place memes go to die) February 2, 2018, 1:35 pm

      When I saw the beginning of your comment, I went back to look at the gun pic and was going to reply and say that the difference from other rifles is that this one says H&K on it, but you beat me to it. Overall I question if it will be able to compete with other rifles that do a similar job if not the same job completely.

      • bill July 22, 2018, 2:29 am

        Aside from the firing mechanism and barrel being completely different, yes, you’re right Sherlock, it’s an M16.

  • Infidel762X51 February 2, 2018, 10:22 am

    Should have made it 6.5 Grendel while they were at it, then upgraded the SAW to 6.5

    • Gun Man February 2, 2018, 11:05 am

      I totally agree or 6.5 Creedmoore. They did not think this one through at all. And the price at $3,000! . . .

  • BRUCE P MARSTON February 2, 2018, 10:15 am

    THREE THOUSAND DOLLARS MY ASS !!!!!!!!!!!!
    SOMEONE’S PALM GOT GREASED, BIG TIME, AND THE AMERICAN TAX PAYER GOT IT STUFFED UP THEIR CAN AS USUAL !
    I CAN’T HELP BUT WONDER WHAT SPARE PARTS WILL COST FOR THIS THING.
    DISCGRASEFUL!

    • Awesome Bill from Dawsonville February 2, 2018, 10:42 am

      $3k is excessive, but is that price for the rifle alone or does it include the ACOG, RMR, rings and base too? If they are included then that price is a whole lot easier for me to understand.

    • Doug February 2, 2018, 10:58 am

      Only close in value If the rifle includes all of the furniture, and acog scope shown, otherwise you’re spot on: about $2k more than what should have been paid (& that’s being GENEROUS) for a piston 5.56.

  • RGE February 2, 2018, 10:14 am

    Other than a gas piston vs gas impingement, this is a standard Stoner AR15/M16 variant. Any Joe with a lower could probably make one just like it or even better. And gas piston makes AK’s top heavy, requires more effort, and though AK’s are notoriously reliable with that system, it won’t make the gun any more accurate than an M16 with a 16″ barrel. Frankly, we have S&W and Colt, Bushmaster and a host of other gunmakers here in the US. I get they’ll tool up a factory here like some of the other manufacturers to meet Congressional mandates, which is fine. But I’m kind of sick of our $’s going to foreign companies who will export profits back to their countries and not reinvest here.

    • RTW365 February 2, 2018, 12:01 pm

      Exactly right…I can’t understand why the Corps is doing this, what’s to be gained?

  • Olecowboy February 2, 2018, 10:13 am

    It seems like the Marines are getting their monies worth. If the purchasing and evaluation people did their jobs, the HK will be top notch. Unlike the Civil War where Lincoln personally liked the multi-shot level gun, the power levied by military establishment said soldiers would waste ammo and bought single shots. So left on the war strategy floor was gatling gun, Henry…..etc. Let us hope our modern day military establishment did their jobs and bought quality, usefulness, etc. using and with common sense.
    A comment on cost: when was the last time you saw a world champion level shooter using an off the shelf firearm paying ‘common man prices’? Even world champion revolver speed shooter’s S&W isn’t ‘off the shelf’ and the money after purchase makes that 700 dollar handgun worth over $3,000. So let us give our military quality without compromise, for a change!

  • Wade February 2, 2018, 9:28 am

    Clay perhaps you should do an extensive video on why Piston is better than Gas Impingement, with two weapons broke down to show us that don’t understand what’s what???
    Oh and Semper Fi BROTHER!!! (No I was not a Marine but I know one when I see one!!!)

  • George Hovey February 2, 2018, 8:56 am

    A number of commentors claim that American manufacturers could do it as well and cheaper.

    If so they should have bid. Or did they?

    As for price, a U.S. military weapon is subject to elaborate quality control measures which make it more expensive to produce.

  • Tom Lyons February 2, 2018, 8:52 am

    It’s all political. There was no need. Officials get “lobbied”, favors get done.

    • Z February 2, 2018, 9:59 am

      Then again there are also the extensive testing and trials. Are you speaking as a lobbied official?

  • joefoam February 2, 2018, 8:24 am

    Only the government has the money (our tax dollars) to blow on these weapons, the average working stiff can’t afford them. Maybe it’s because of all the taxes we pay. An endless cycle.

    • Z February 2, 2018, 10:05 am

      To be fair, you probably can’t afford an ACOG, a Kevlar helmet, level four body armor or months of combat training. That doesn’t mean our troops should go without it.

  • Alan February 2, 2018, 8:08 am

    The M27 IAR looks a lot like a cousin of the Colt M 16. Not at all like the H&K MP5 or H&K 33. Strange? Anybody know why?

    • Z February 2, 2018, 9:59 am

      The MP 5 shot 9mm. The HK 33 is a roller lock delayed blowback. Different caliber for the one, different operating system for the other.

      • Alan February 2, 2018, 5:39 pm

        Yes, I was joking. I meant, why would H&K, that made such a name for it’s self with the rolling block of the H&K 33 copy Colt’s M16 so closely? It is like saying they have been wrong all these years. Their rifles have been so famous. More valuable than Colt’s, when you compare their semi autos: the AR15 to the H&K33. To me it still sounds strange.

  • NRSNick February 2, 2018, 7:45 am

    So am I to understand that this is fully automatic only, according to the specs listed above or select fire? I hope not. If so, is aimed fire off the Marine’s list of talents? Personally, I never had a problem with gas impingement and on the M4 variants particularly I’ve found that the piston variety made the rifle front heavy and imbalanced, especially with all the items slapped on them. H&K is a fine company, however, as one gentleman stated, there are more than enough domestic companies who could produce a fine weapon for less dollars keeping the profits here. Just my thoughts.

    • Ricky Price February 2, 2018, 9:09 am

      Very true. Everybody screw US. We are to easy to give up borrow money.

    • Z February 2, 2018, 10:32 am

      “The M27 Infantry Automatic Rifle (IAR) is a lightweight, magazine-fed 5.56mm, select-fire weapon based on the Heckler & Koch HK416.” 3 seconds to type the question into the google search bar.

  • J February 2, 2018, 7:37 am

    H&K is an excellent manufacture for sure, and while it’s nice to see them stepping into the US market more. It is indeed sad to see US manufactures can’t seem to compete and get military contracts as often as they once did. Also, on a side note… If I go out of my way and by an H&K product, it would be because it isn’t market specific and pay the premium to have it imported from its country of origin. I don’t care to have a frame made “here”, and a slide made “there” kind of firearm. I prefer to have to have the firearm unchanged (minus military to civilian changes) and designed the way it was intended to be designed by the original country that designed it… not catered and modified to meet another market.

    • Cyrus February 2, 2018, 9:17 am

      I agree with you – if I buy a German car I want it made in Germany not Mexico or the Carolina’s. I own an HK45ct made in Germany and it is a solid well put together gun. I paid the premium for this imported gun. I’m torn between bringing HK factory to the USA which does create new jobs for us but not thrilled about paying imported prices for a domestic product . . . so I am at a loss here with a meaningful answer. Like someone else pointed out, why not Colt or Bushmaster which both have proven quality pedigree?

      • Z February 2, 2018, 10:34 am

        Because they failed the field trials.

      • hillhunter February 2, 2018, 10:52 am

        Couldn’t agree more. Hate to see HK moving production to US. The quality and brand will suffer. Not because Americans don’t build fantastic this or that, but when production is moved a world away from home base quality almost invariably suffers (ie US made Toyotas and BMW’s with their rapidly fading paint, milky plastics and cheap interiors). The only firearms company thats ever mfg. all over the world and maintained quality has been FN. US made Sigs are not as reliable as the older P226/228 German models and USA Berettas show a lower level of fit and finish (esp. in the shotguns).

      • Parks February 2, 2018, 12:04 pm

        I think some of you don’t understand that the $3,000 price tag is for a full auto ( MILITARY weapon) not something Joe Blow can go to Acadmey Sports and buy off the shelf.

        • I'm JAFO February 2, 2018, 2:05 pm

          Do you honestly think that it being full auto significantly increases the cost to manufacture? It involves drilling one more hole in in the lower receiver and a different fire control group. That MIGHT increase the cost a few dollars per unit at most. The cost increase is due to the accessories included and the fact that it is a government contract item, not because it is full auto.

      • Oaf February 2, 2018, 12:42 pm

        Sure, like it’s no big problem in a WW3 scale war to call over to Germany and say “Hey, we need 200,000 more M27’s ASAP, ship ’em over here COD if you please”. Yea, that oughta work just peachy!

    • hANNAbONE February 2, 2018, 10:06 am

      …and with that thinking, why ‘o why didn’t they just hook up the Gov’t CFO to a brand like Bravo Company. Makes all their own stuff and it is lights out terrific and battle tested. H & K indeed.! Color me angry…

  • Rusty February 2, 2018, 7:22 am

    Looks just like an m4 wouldn’t it have been less expensive and easier to just retro the existing uppers with gas impingement systems. Hk may be good but I’m for mileage. Colt and Bushmaster have proven records.

    • Tyler February 2, 2018, 9:36 am

      Amen

  • George February 2, 2018, 7:19 am

    Ok, I’m still waiting to hear at what range!! Also, $3k for a piston driven AR, wow, seems kinda steep, I could care less who makes it. Yes, HK makes some nice firearms, I have an MP5, but there are companies that could and would make a rifle just as good for less..

  • Jay February 2, 2018, 7:18 am

    Why is it every time someone comes out with a new rifle, pistol etc… for our military the citizens are raped on the price. $3000 buks for a rifle that should be had for about $1000 come on! You do know were all tax payers and price gouging effects us all!

    • Jeffrey L. Frischkorn February 2, 2018, 8:47 am

      An often asked question. In short, government demands include that all components from screws – and yes, hammers – meet certain specifications that within them require specific manufacturing, inspection and supply specifications. While these rifles may look like a $1,000 weapon they, in fact, have met the studious dictates of evaluation, testing and components. Maybe it\’s not the best analogy but I have a Springfield 1903 rifle (sporterized) that is more than 100 years old and it still is deer-capable. In part that rifle remains so because way back when those who were looking at the competitors demanded the very best. Which is a good thing when our sons and daughters are on the line. I believe that fact makes another $2,000/whatever a bargain.

      • Jay February 2, 2018, 1:55 pm

        You can believe that sales pitch if you want to but the end all it’s nothing but palm greasing and tax payer raping! If they wanted a good ol fashion weapon the Colt served just fine! The weapon is on no way a $3000 weapon other than palm greasing! All weapons pass test to even be considered for the contract. Those companies know full well they can rape us through government channels! Why else would we the tax payer be paying over $100 dollars for a fold up chair, the same one you and I can buy for $20!? I will not disagree with you on the older weapons though I’ve got some oldies but goodies too and more handy work went into those guns than the mass production one’s of today!

  • Brent Kauser February 2, 2018, 6:32 am

    “The M27 features a 16-inch barrel. This is important for the velocity needed to make 5.56 lethal at that range.”
    At what range?
    If you’re not a Marine, don’t call Marines Jarhead, you probably don’t know the history of the term.
    No disrespect intended! I just don’t appreciate soooo many stories with soooo many holes being pumped out nowadays without regard for completeness.

    • Mike V February 2, 2018, 6:59 am

      I think he was a Marine, in the beginning?

    • Ton E February 2, 2018, 7:00 am

      I call em Jarheads and yes I know the history of the term. I’ll stop when they cease using chair force to describe me lol.

    • Jay February 2, 2018, 7:29 am

      The term “jarhead” has many meanings and only one that is derogatory. Some say it came from the tight hair cuts that made the head resemble a jar. Some say it was because the mason jar company made helmets for the marine corp in WWII. Others say it came from the fact marines would follow any order given. Others may exist. I don;t use it in a derogatory sense and those that see it that way are only using their personnel perception of the term in a derogatory way!

    • tom thumb February 2, 2018, 7:57 am

      Just to make clear he was Force Rec then left and became a Green Beret… Once a Marine always a Marine:) Once your name is pinned to your jacket, your name is always pinned to your jacket:)

  • Bob February 2, 2018, 6:22 am

    So the US military is fielding a shotgun from Baretta, a sidearm from Sig and a rifle from H&K. Yes, they’re excellent. But it’s disappointing that the domestic manufacturers seem to no longer be competitive. Hopefully, that will change.

    • Rick February 2, 2018, 7:10 am

      The Adcor BEAR is a far superior weapon in my opinion and was a finalist with the H&K until the govt pulled the plug on the project. If I was in the military, I’d much rather have a piston gun of the quality of the Adcor.

      • hANNAbONE February 2, 2018, 10:18 am

        Adcor Defense has the same properties as my Rock River Arms PDS Carbine. Piston Driven & Front Ambi charging handle[s]. I received mine for under $1100 new in my hands. For the price of the Adcor you could buy the RRA & have over $1300. left for training, ammo, or a duplicate rifle.

  • James Malcolm February 1, 2018, 10:47 am

    Sorry I have not followed this development.
    Why is this equipment better than the M4, or M16? The rate of fire, reliability, weight?

    • Ben February 1, 2018, 3:49 pm

      This should be clear to a true weapons fanatic. HK is widely known as the finest firearms manufacturer in the world. I hope they develop a civilian counterpart.

      • Tom February 2, 2018, 7:03 am

        That’s not an answer.

        • Chris February 2, 2018, 7:56 am

          The M27 is heavy for an Ar plateform but she will fire 1000s of rounds and not even need much maintenance. Can operate in water, sand, mud and ice with almost no errors. The barrel is different then other Ar the round is squeezed at the end and it allows it to achieve similar velocity as a 20 inch one. But biggest deal is how cool the rifle runs. Sorry being but there more lots more to it.

    • Larry Davis February 1, 2018, 7:31 pm

      The biggest improvement design over the standard M4, M-16 is that it’s a piston driven system much more reliable then gas impingement. because of this it internal temperature is much lower than the standard M-16 rifle. and another benefit of the piston system is that the soldier does not need to tip the rifle forward after bringing the firearm out of water to drain the barrel he can pull it out and fire directly and not have to worry about damaging the firearm.

      • Charles February 2, 2018, 3:17 am

        Are you trying to tell me that you can shoot this rifle, with a barrel full of water? Really?

        • Chris February 2, 2018, 9:00 am

          The 416 could, not sure about 417.

      • Jim February 2, 2018, 7:20 am

        I’m not so sure about more reliable. A properly configured AR/M4, with an appropriate heavy weight buffer and spring, is very reliable with DI. Many, many torture tests have been done and rifles went 4-5k rounds with no cleaning or further lubrication.
        Don’t get me wrong, I’m a big piston fan, and almost every rifle I own uses that system. No, you’re probably never going to hear about a DI rifle going 15-20k rounds without servicing like some FALs or AKs have done. But really, when are you ever going to need to do that anyway? I’m just saying that you can make DI reliable to the point where the slight difference between the two systems in real world situations is negligible.

      • Steve February 2, 2018, 9:20 am

        The specs above say it’s gas operated.

        • Oaf February 2, 2018, 12:47 pm

          Yes, gas operated. Gas enters the piston which drives the rod which operates the action. Gas piston.

    • shrugger February 2, 2018, 2:56 am

      It’s a light machine gun, a much improved replacement for the M249. Lighter, more reliable, more accurate and a whole lot less ammo to carry.

      • elu February 2, 2018, 8:46 am

        so it can be belt fed as well as magazine fed? if not it would be far from a” much improved” replacement for the 249

      • Wade February 2, 2018, 10:37 am

        Just how would this be ‘a whole lot less ammo to carry’? Rounds down range will still be required and most likely be nearly the same. Please explain.

    • Gary February 2, 2018, 3:57 am

      The M27 is designed to be the much lighter replacement to the M249 SAW.
      If you want a “civilian” version, drop $2800 for a H&K 416. It is essentially the same firearm, minus the accessories and go fast capacity.

      • Chris February 2, 2018, 9:03 am

        Sadly the mr series isn’t as good as the military family they have steel barrels and the round count is ok 10k before accuracy’s is impacted.

    • Z February 2, 2018, 4:54 am

      Price is much better – for selling party of course.
      And flow of new big money to them all.
      That’s ALL.

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