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HK416
In developing the HK416, Heckler & Koch pursued a single goal: To start off where comparable assault rifl es have already reached their limits. The result: Improved combat efficiency “Made in Germany”.
Technical studies have shown that comparable assault rifles from other manufacturers suffer from fundamental defects and considerable shortcomings with regard to reliability, safety, accuracy and ease of handling. Another complication is the need for the user to carry out constant, intensive maintenance to ensure that the rifle is always ready for action. These findings, together with the experience that Heckler & Koch gained during its highly successful "midlife improvement programme" for the British Army SA80 assault rifle, have now borne fruit in the HK416. The HK416 incorporates an innovative assault rifle concept that is based on modularity, variability and cost effectiveness. Besides a selection of different barrel lengths, the user can also choose from a wide range of specialist accessories. The improved add-on grenade launcher, the GLM, can also be employed as a stand alone weapon independent of the system. Heckler & Koch's patented Free-Floating Handguard System (MIL-STD-1913) allows the user 360° individuality.
In all of the durability and extreme conditions tests it has undergone, the HK416 has demonstrated that the systems impeccable combat efficiency is an all round success. Thanks to the integrated G36 technology, the HK416 weapon system from Heckler & Koch represents yet another reliable option for military, police and special operations forces with regard to accuracy, reliability, ease of maintenance and handling.
Users already familiar with assault rifles of a similar design will only require the very minimum of conversion training. All key operating features and safety mechanisms are designed to vastly reduce training times when converting to the HK weapon system. The only major difference for the end user to appreciate is increased reliability and effectiveness. With one exception: Stripping and reassembling can be carried out entirely without the use of special tools. This is due to innovative design of components allowing them to interface one another to enable the stripping and reassembling process. The HK416's modular design allows 100% interchangeability of components within the weapon system. Even between calibres, as many components as is physically possible are interchangeable with its big brother, the HK417. The customers cost benefi ts for a vastly reduced logistics holding are clear to see. Also with the "Minimum Upgrade Package" offered by Heckler & Koch it is possible to continue using components from existing models of rifl es, and to combine them with HK416 technology. This means HK416 technology is still available to those with limited budgets, without having to make any compromise when it comes to quality and reliability.
With the HK416, Heckler & Koch starts off looking for solutions where others have long since given up.
