I know, I know. This has nothing whatsoever to do with water purification, but I cant resist. Here goes....

To me, the debate is all about range. Since it was decided back in the '40s that the maximum effective combat range for an infantry rifle was no more than 300 meters, the acceptable stopping power the ammunition has decreased. .303 and .30-'06 gave way to 7.62X51 (NATO), which has, to a large degree, given way to 5.56X45. Even the Sov.. ,sorry, Russians, went this route, though for rather different doctrinal reasons.

In Afghanistan, where engagements often bagan at 300+ meters, mortars and the 7.62mm GPMGs were the most effective infantry weapons. I found it interesting that in the images coming out of Afghanistan in late 2001, many Northern Alliance soldiers carried the Russian 7.62R PK and PKM GP machine guns as their primary weapon - and not Kalashmikovs.

So I guess what I'm saying, Chris, is that I agree with you. I think.

.....CLIFF

P.S. Nice bit quoting the most important person ever to live in the 20th century.