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  1. #1
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    Default Why does san parks use the R1

    I was wondering why the field rangers use the R1 (7,62 x 51) opposed to the R4 (5.56 x 45)?

    Is it because of the larger caliber or is it because they get free/cheap R1 from the defense force?


    Regards,


    Richard

  2. #2

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    Quote Originally Posted by Richard83 View Post
    I was wondering why the field rangers use the R1 (7,62 x 51) opposed to the R4 (5.56 x 45)?

    Is it because of the larger caliber or is it because they get free/cheap R1 from the defense force?


    Regards,


    Richard
    Speaking to some SADF guys and they said that tangos could not hide behind smallish trees. That is my 2c.

    Powerful cartridge.

  3. #3
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    Default Re: Why does san parks use the R1

    And the fact that they might have to fend of attacks by things with claws!
    Sent electronically, thus not signed.

  4. #4
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    Default Re: Why does san parks use the R1

    Battle proven, hard-wearing, powerful cartridge, good long range accuracy.

    I dunno, guess if it was good enough for the "Free World" once upon a time, it's good enough for the Rangers?

  5. #5
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    Default Re: Why does san parks use the R1

    Whatever the reason, the only drawback I can find from using an R1 as opposed to an R4 is the extra weight. Higher bullet energy, larger caliber and insane stopping power is why I would like to use the R1 instead. Also, as h0stag3 said, the can shoot through a smaller tree and still kill the enemy behind it. And shooting a charging lion with a .223 is a tad worrying, I'd think.

  6. #6
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    Default Re: Why does san parks use the R1

    I suppose other than its weight it probably holds the trump cards for use as an anti poaching weapon. It could in theory protect rangers from attacks from humans and animals alike, or at least better than a .223.

  7. #7
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    Default Re: Why does san parks use the R1

    Just to add to what has already been said above.

    In many parts of parks like Kruger, the bush is seriously thick.

    Many years ago when I was in the SADF in the Caprivi Strip, a mate and me did a non scientific test. He had been issued an R4 and I was still carrying an R1.

    We camped out one night and did a test with tracers. As the bush was getting dark. You could still see a bit of backround sky but you could also see where the bush was nice and thick. We fired through these thick areas.

    The 556 tracers often never went far in or they deflected wildly, almost at right angles. If they hit thick branches (3 or 4 inches in diameter or larger) they disapeared, captured by the branches.

    The 762's were a different matters. They mostly penetrated for long distances with only minor or moderate course changes, only being captured by tree trunks.

    If I was getting into a firefight in thick bush, I want the 762

    Sean
    Last edited by Sean Murphy; 19-02-2013 at 15:08.
    Pain is just weakness leaving the body.

  8. #8

    Default Re: Why does san parks use the R1

    Id rather shoot a big cat with a 30 caliber than a 22.

    that being said I'd rather not shoot any cat at all.

  9. #9
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    Default Re: Why does san parks use the R1

    I don't think weight will be a major issue, the rangers are not carrying the same volume ammo a soldier would, last time I was in the park the most I saw was 2 extra mags

  10. #10
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    Default Re: Why does san parks use the R1

    Quote Originally Posted by Scuba Steve View Post
    Id rather shoot a big cat with a 30 caliber than a 22.

    that being said I'd rather not shoot any cat at all.
    i'm with you on this, not shoot any cat at all....but i would also prefer the 7.62x51

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