Heckler and Koch IAR M27 "Infantry Automatic Rifle"

So Today I was in the car thinking to myself, as I usually do, about how it is interesting that something can be sold if its marketed correctly. So I was looking at the fact the USMC is testing to replace the M249 with the H&K M27 IAR, which upon hearing made me curious (this was of course last year). So Like the H&K fanboy I am I decided to do some research and find out what this miracle weapon that my beloved Corps decided they wanted to swap for was. Lo and Behold I was a H&K 416 with a Heavy Barrel =\ ....

I may not be an AR fanboy but Mein Gott!! Piston Driven AR system!!! To me It sounds like the Corps learned a lesson from the Germans of WWII. Rebrand something that exists to get the brass to buy it.

This of Course Is talking about the STG-44, In WWII Hitler only wanted NEW MACHINEGUNS. He was not in favor of making any new SMG's or other light weight automatics for use on the squad level unless it was a LMG. So In a moment of craftyness the Germans Renamed the MP44 to SturmGewehr 44 (Literally Storm Rifle, Or Assault Rifle as some would say...). WHY!?!?!? even though they are literally the same rifle/SMG... because its what was needed to do to get the approval for mass production. This is basically what has been done here with the IAR, Rebrand a M416 to "Infantry Automatic Rifle" and Voila you too can send your men exactly what they need to fend of the enemy!!

Anyways, One last Irony for the Night! Back when all this went down the company manufacturing Arms for Germany was Mauser Werks.... Mauser was resurrected by H&K after WWII. Just a bit of trivia, but still Soo much win. anyways this was really more of a thought for me today.