Frag Out! Magazine
Issue link: https://fragout.uberflip.com/i/1542142
Functional updates: Bayonet: Gone. The barrel no longer features a lug to fix bayonet. Muzzle Device: Uses standard 1/2x28 RH thread. Gas System: You can now remove the piston assembly from the front without pulling the barrel. The gas block features two new vents that direct gas forward, out the front of the handguard. This keeps the handguard interior cleaner and im- proves shooter comfort. Upper Receiver: The forefront ven- tilation slot at the front is gone. This increases rigidity and protects the support hand from gas block heat and gases. Stock Adapter: The rear trunnion screws were reversed to secure a reinforced stock adapter. These fixes reported cracking issues while retaining compatibility with AR-15 stocks. Lower Receiver: The military ac- cepted all lower receiver improve- ment proposals. They added a mo- dification to prevent disassembly while the Bolt Carrier Group (BCG) is locked to the rear. Handguard: thicker base for better rigidity. Implementing user feedback ta- kes much longer than it would for a manufacturer-owned design like the MPS or VIS 100 M1 pistols. Worse, there is no guarantee the brass will accept feedback from the soldiers actually using the gear. Figurski's 2024 presentation sho- wed the factory's proposal. This year, he showed what survived the military's filter. Fortunately, a lot survived, though some decisions are baffling. The MSBS/GROT A3: 2025 Spec The 2025 MSBS/GROT A3 differs from the initial proposal, but the collaborative changes generally in- crease functionality. Let's start with the barrel con- troversy. The military insisted on keeping the 16" barrel. I don't get it. You can argue for terminal balli- stics and stopping power, but most modern armies are already moving to 14.5" barrels. It's the compromi- se between muzzle velocity, weight, and maneuverability. Furthermore, the war in Ukraine shows that small arms engage- ments rarely exceed 300 meters, and usually happen below 100 me- ters distannce. Users want a 14.5" barrel. The brass insists on 16". The customer is always right, even when they aren't. FIREARMS