What is the OLDEST model weapon that you used in the Military?

MSG Lonnie Averkamp — Sat, 10 Sep 2022 16:01:07 -0400

For many of us, this will probably be dominated by the .45 Cal. Model 1911 Pistol (in service since 1911) and the .50 Cal. M2 Machinegun (Manufactured since 1921). For me, it was the above 2 weapons, plus the Smith & Wesson Model 1905 .38 Special Revolver. Please make this weapons that you actually used, carried, or operated as a service member. (The Navy guys will probably win. They never throw anything away.)

Response by SGM Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 10 at 2022 4:19 PM

SGM Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 10 Sep 2022 16:19:23 -0400

Colt 1911, ironically because the Navy was getting rid of some at Great Lakes and we found out.
Still wrapped in the original paper and cosmoline.

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 10 at 2022 4:57 PM

SSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 10 Sep 2022 16:57:53 -0400

M1911-A1, of course. I have fired the .50 Cal. M2 Machinegun as a top of the deuce and a half mounted weapon - out at the range. Have fired the M1 Garand as well. Only the M1911-A1 and M15 were my assigned service weapons.

Response by SGT Philip Roncari made Sep 11 at 2022 11:10 AM

SGT Philip Roncari — Sun, 11 Sep 2022 11:10:27 -0400

The .45 Cal .Model 1911 issued to Grenadiers and machine gunners in my unit RVN somehow I retained mine when I traded off the M79 and returned to rifleman( Old Slabsides did not jam!)

Response by CSM Darieus ZaGara made Sep 11 at 2022 11:24 AM

CSM Darieus ZaGara — Sun, 11 Sep 2022 11:24:51 -0400

Navy can’t win as very few carry a weapon (haha). I carried and fired the same as you. Served for over 30.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 11 at 2022 9:18 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 11 Sep 2022 21:18:33 -0400

Winchester M-1897, 1972 at Bragg, on guard duty. We were told that the old shotguns were from WWI, and used in the trenches. The rounds looked old too, it was all brass, the gun had the bayonet lug on the front, and a leather sling.
We all got a class on shooting it, qualification was, 5 rounds, and if you hit the 55gal drum with 3 rounds, you were qualified to use it.
Don't really know if that was the oldest firearm I used while in the army, it might have been the M-2 or the 1911, that looked very old.
The 1911 qualifications was the same as the shotgun was.

But in the mid 70's I did own a 1903 M-1 that was 30.06cal., that was very old too.

Response by PO3 Mark Johnson made Sep 12 at 2022 3:50 PM

PO3 Mark Johnson — Mon, 12 Sep 2022 15:50:13 -0400

My unit still had M16-A2 with the straight 20rnd magazines. And that was in 2000-2003. We did upgrade to the 30rnd mags sometime around 2001.

Response by CPT Lawrence Cable made Sep 13 at 2022 10:27 AM

CPT Lawrence Cable — Tue, 13 Sep 2022 10:27:39 -0400

The 1911 was the oldest weapon I carried. Of course, shot the M2 and it's still in service. Mechanized Combat Engineer CEV, AVLB and M88 crews still had M3 Grease Guns until I got out.
The M1917 Revolver was used up through the end of Vietnam, at least.

Response by SSG Dale London made Sep 13 at 2022 9:34 PM

SSG Dale London — Tue, 13 Sep 2022 21:34:11 -0400

When I was at Fort Devens, I was a member of the Battalion's "American Heritage Association" and was issued a Brown Bess musket designed in 1722.
Beat that, Navy!

For clarification: in 1983 the AHA at Fort Devens was a Revolutionary War Re-Enactment association. We did demonstrations and parades throughout New England marching in period-uniform with period-specific weapons (we even had a cannon!).
It was a great way for AIT students to get out into the community and have a bit of fun on the weekends -- better than sitting in the Devens Disco, swilling cheap beer and watching MTV.

Response by LCpl Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 15 at 2022 11:24 AM

LCpl Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 15 Sep 2022 11:24:04 -0400

Probably for me, it was also the .45, and the .50. All Marines at Clarksville Base was required to qualify with the .45. I hated it. I wouldn't have qualified if it wasn't for our sharpie Markers in the pits. The .50 was stuck on me as an assignment, not my MOS.

Response by PO1 David Ashinghurst made Sep 21 at 2022 3:55 AM

PO1 David Ashinghurst — Wed, 21 Sep 2022 03:55:19 -0400

Polaris A-3 nuclear missile. Stationed aboard FBM submarine USS Patrick Henry (SSBN 599 Gold) from 1974 - 1979. They weren't called 'boomers' for nothing.

Response by Lt Col Jim Coe made Sep 21 at 2022 8:01 AM

Lt Col Jim Coe — Wed, 21 Sep 2022 08:01:42 -0400

1903 A3 Springfield. ROTC drill team used them in 1965.

Response by SMSgt Lawrence McCarter made Sep 21 at 2022 12:39 PM

SMSgt Lawrence McCarter — Wed, 21 Sep 2022 12:39:33 -0400

Well in my case the 50 caliber was used a lot while i was in Vietnam. I've also used and carried the M1 and also the M2 Carbines while in the Military service. Although i hadn't carried them on active duty My prior time as a Cadet in a Military Academy within a Army ROTC had fired the M1 Garand as well as the 1911 model 45 ACP. For handguns used in My active duty Military service was the Smith and Wesson, Model 15, Combat Masterpiece .38 caliber revolver. ( I actually own one I have fired well over 4,000 rounds through over a 50 year period of time and it still looks and handles like brand new)

Response by CW4 Peter McHugh made Sep 21 at 2022 2:39 PM

CW4 Peter McHugh — Wed, 21 Sep 2022 14:39:18 -0400

While at Coe College, Cedar Rapids, Iowa, was given chance to purchase (for $5.00) from ROTC an excess/surplus 1903 Springfield bolt action rifle ...was mint, in original cosmoline and waxed paper. Left college on academic probation end of first/freshman year and soon joined the Army ... career group 11 and Airborne .... took the rifle to Ft Gordon for basic .... actually got permission to qualify with it on the KD range ... instead of the M-14 .... later, in RVN got issued an older M3 grease gun, which I carried in the U-1A (Otter) cockpit my first tour ... both were older than I was, but accurate (the 1903) and great defense (the M3, the rounds from which were so slow you could see them in flight and adjust on target accordingly) !!!

Response by MSG Thomas Currie made Sep 21 at 2022 3:36 PM

MSG Thomas Currie — Wed, 21 Sep 2022 15:36:30 -0400

Oldest first
M1903
M1911
M1918
M1919
M2

Response by SSG Roger Ayscue made Sep 21 at 2022 5:02 PM

SSG Roger Ayscue — Wed, 21 Sep 2022 17:02:43 -0400

My firs M16 was a "GM Hydro-Matic" marked AR-15 and stamped M16A1. I carried a 1944 Remington Rand M1911, and of course the Ma Deuce as well. I was in a unit that had the M-3 and the M3A1 Grease gun. I got to shoot it but not use in combat.

Response by A1C Medrick "Rick" DeVaney made Sep 21 at 2022 8:17 PM

A1C Medrick "Rick" DeVaney — Wed, 21 Sep 2022 20:17:12 -0400

During My Years Of Service It Would Have Been
Sling Shots, Pea Shooters, Spit-Wads, And Large Rocks.

Response by SSG Jack Scott made Sep 21 at 2022 10:30 PM

SSG Jack Scott — Wed, 21 Sep 2022 22:30:20 -0400

My grand father flew TBM Avengers with M2 50Cals in WWII, my Dad and Uncles where Navy Gunners on Patrol Boats in NAM with twin M2 50cals! I had the M2 50cal in mounted in my LVT/AAV turret in the Marines and fired one again in the Army! So three generations of the M2 50cal

Response by SSG Bill McCoy made Sep 22 at 2022 1:52 AM

SSG Bill McCoy — Thu, 22 Sep 2022 01:52:23 -0400

Actual use ... as in locked/loaded & fired - a Remington Rand 1911 .45 and and M-1 Carbine in Nam for about a week when I realized it was a pea-shooter. In the Navy ... at Boot Camp, I believe it was a 1903 - bolt action no less. We didn't fire them - they were for drill & ceremony, marching ant PT (96 Count Manual of Arms).
Over time, I also carried an Ithaca and Colt .45's.

Response by CW5 Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 22 at 2022 7:42 AM

CW5 Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 22 Sep 2022 07:42:43 -0400

As an ROTC cadet we had M1903 Springfields for color guard. Never fired them as they were ceremonial drill weapons. I can't recall if they were nickel or chrome finish, but they were shiny.

I do recall being issued a three-prong, flash suppressor, M16A1 at Fort Bragg in 1985. It had been cleaned so often the finish was almost completely gone!

Otherwise, same as you MSG Lon Averkamp.

I don't think the younger aircrew members believe me when I tell them we carried revolvers back in the "good old days".

Response by CSM Charles Hayden made Sep 22 at 2022 10:05 PM

CSM Charles Hayden — Thu, 22 Sep 2022 22:05:57 -0400

MSG Lonnie Averkamp 1965 -
At Camp Roberts, CA, Air cooled 30 cal LMG from WW II.

Shortly after this VIP visit, a gun mis-fired due to a reloaded shell separating at the neck of the case. We were pleased the visitors had passed on.

A CPT in the party saw my Mail Pouch pouch and asked for a chew. I told him that officers weren’t supposed to chew, he said watch me and took a generous chaw from the pouch. SGT Private RallyPoint Member

@LTC Stephen Curlee

Response by LTC Stephen F. made Sep 22 at 2022 10:43 PM

LTC Stephen F. — Thu, 22 Sep 2022 22:43:29 -0400

Great question MSG Lonnie Averkamp for me the oldest weapon for me was .45 Cal. Model 1911 Pistol when I was a pay officer. I had much more expereince with the Browning .50 Cal. M2 Machinegun.
Thank you my friend CSM Charles Hayden for mentioning me.

Response by AB Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 23 at 2022 7:48 AM

AB Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 23 Sep 2022 07:48:36 -0400

After the 1970s, research into prospective successors to the AK-47/74 series continued, with the majority of them involving some method of lessening the impacts of recoil and blowback. The AN-94 was one option that allowed two rounds to be fired in quick succession before recoil forces were developed.

https://www.theseovalley.com/

Top Ranked Professional SEO Services Agency | The SEO Valley

Expert B2B SEO agency provides Better rankings, increased organic traffic, and return on investment are all possible with the help of our Professional SEO services.

Response by LCpl Paul Miller made Oct 8 at 2022 10:32 PM

LCpl Paul Miller — Sat, 08 Oct 2022 22:32:00 -0400

Colt 1911A1, M14, Rem 870, M16A1

Response by SPC Maurice Evans made Oct 10 at 2022 8:31 AM

SPC Maurice Evans — Mon, 10 Oct 2022 08:31:17 -0400

As far as I know the M-14 in Basic . There was a shortage of M 16's in 1969. Operated one of the first military computers but it would not be considered a weapon.

Response by Maj John Bell made Oct 11 at 2022 10:18 AM

Maj John Bell — Tue, 11 Oct 2022 10:18:50 -0400

The 1st M1911 I was issued was actually put in service 2 years before I was born.

But anybody know when this model e-tool entered service.

Response by SSG Harry Herres made Oct 16 at 2022 12:30 PM

SSG Harry Herres — Sun, 16 Oct 2022 12:30:19 -0400

1911 .45 pistol, 1945 M-3 .45 ( grease gun), M-14, M-16! Just to set record straight as an Army brat 03 Springfield, M-1 Carbine and M-1 Grande. Bestie M-14!

Response by LTC David Howard made Nov 3 at 2022 5:47 PM

LTC David Howard — Thu, 03 Nov 2022 17:47:44 -0400

I had the chance to fire an M20, 75 mm recoilless rifle in 1962. We also used M1's at that time. This was during my ROTC summer training. By the time I was on active duty in 1966, the M20 had been replaced by the M40, and the MI by the M14. When I got to Vietnam in 1970 I was handed an M16 rifle which I had never fired or handled up until that moment.

Response by CW4 William Kessinger made Nov 3 at 2022 6:20 PM

CW4 William Kessinger — Thu, 03 Nov 2022 18:20:17 -0400

UH-1C with quad 30's, Had use of a M1 and M2 Carbine 30 cal. Carrided a S&W 38 in VN. Had a M2 (45 cal) grease gun for a while but it was too heave with the 2, 30 round mags.

They later gave me an AH64a that in now history. They all have been replaced.

Response by CW4 William Kessinger made Nov 3 at 2022 6:21 PM

CW4 William Kessinger — Thu, 03 Nov 2022 18:21:39 -0400

They also gave me an M-60 with a 120 mm and co-ax 30 cal. Hated the M-60.

Response by PO2 Linn Lockwood made Nov 3 at 2022 7:16 PM

PO2 Linn Lockwood — Thu, 03 Nov 2022 19:16:46 -0400

When I went into the field in Vietnam I was issued a Winchester model 1917 12 gauge shotgun complete with original bayonet lug looked to be brand new. Go Navy.

Response by LCDR Paul Borchardt made Nov 4 at 2022 10:21 AM

LCDR Paul Borchardt — Fri, 04 Nov 2022 10:21:42 -0400

You're right the Colt 1911. Didn't get to keep it, but bought one as soon as I got out - 1969.

Response by Cpl Rob Kondziela made Nov 4 at 2022 3:30 PM

Cpl Rob Kondziela — Fri, 04 Nov 2022 15:30:19 -0400

Being a USMC field radio operator, my issue was a 1911. We still had M14s in 1966 so I asked for that also. Good decision. Heavy but accurate an long distances.

Response by LTC Jason Mackay made Nov 4 at 2022 6:32 PM

LTC Jason Mackay — Fri, 04 Nov 2022 18:32:10 -0400

Toss up. M3 Grease Gun or the M2 Caliber .50

Response by 1LT Voyle Smith made Nov 4 at 2022 9:44 PM

1LT Voyle Smith — Fri, 04 Nov 2022 21:44:27 -0400

For me, those were the M1911 pistol and the Ma Deuce .50 cal.

Response by SSG James N. made Nov 5 at 2022 9:31 AM

SSG James N. — Sat, 05 Nov 2022 09:31:59 -0400

US Rifle 903A3 Smith Corona for D&C, Color Guard, unwrapped a brand new Singer 1911 in Kaneohe for my first issued side arm. My issue rifle was a brand new M16A2

Response by Sgt Terry R Whitford made Nov 5 at 2022 9:38 AM

Sgt Terry R Whitford — Sat, 05 Nov 2022 09:38:20 -0400

I used the M14 in Bootcamp (1964), M1, 1911A1, BAR, 3.5 Rocket Launcher in ITR. I "acquired" a 38 revolver when in RVN (1966).

Response by A1C Medrick "Rick" DeVaney made Nov 5 at 2022 9:55 AM

A1C Medrick "Rick" DeVaney — Sat, 05 Nov 2022 09:55:11 -0400

Sling-Shot
By The Wham-o Manufacturing Company.

Whamo Slingshot - Etsy
http://www.etsy.com/market/whamo_slingshot
WHAM-O Powermaster wrist slingshot with 50lb pull made in 1971 model number 713. OneInfiniteCreator. (35) $70.00.

Whamo Slingshot - Etsy

Check out our whamo slingshot selection for the very best in unique or custom, handmade pieces from our hunting & archery shops.

Response by SGT John Schmelzkopf made Nov 6 at 2022 1:48 AM

SGT John Schmelzkopf — Sun, 06 Nov 2022 01:48:53 -0500

Didn't use it in Nam but Qualified on Bazooka in Basic, Nov 64 Fort Dix, NJ. Used Flamethrower a few times in Nam

Response by Sgt Mervyn Russell made Nov 6 at 2022 6:12 AM

Sgt Mervyn Russell — Sun, 06 Nov 2022 06:12:50 -0500

I used and trained with a M-1 Garand and trained and carried a M-14. I trained to used a BAR (Browning's automatic Rifle,) In Vietnam I say guys carrying Thomson 45 Cal Machine Guns, I saw some WWI rifles in use. It was not the 303 but the American made. I also fired the 50 cal. can 30 caliber Machine gun. Sorry I have a memory problem. I even saw some guys carrying the enemy's weapon, The AK-47. I also used and carried a 1911 45 cal. The Marines used anything and everything that was discarded by the Army. We got what they didn't want.

Response by LCpl Jeff Moore made Nov 6 at 2022 10:24 AM

LCpl Jeff Moore — Sun, 06 Nov 2022 10:24:06 -0500

Do you mean oldest as design date or oldest as from date of mnfg?

Design date would be a 1911, mnfg date was a 50 cal that the armory should was made in 72.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 6 at 2022 4:14 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 06 Nov 2022 16:14:57 -0500

MSG Lonnie Averkamp M-14 in Basic Training.

Response by Sgt Hampton Waring made Nov 6 at 2022 6:16 PM

Sgt Hampton Waring — Sun, 06 Nov 2022 18:16:37 -0500

I was stationed with Hawaiian Armed Forces Police (HASP) as a Marine from 1972 to 1976. I qualified with the M14 the first 3 years then the M16 the fourth. Our sidearm was the S&W Model 10 M&P supplied by the Army, but I still had to qualify with the 1911A1 to fulfill USMC requirements. Loved the range!

Response by SSG Mark Lawless made Nov 6 at 2022 10:00 PM

SSG Mark Lawless — Sun, 06 Nov 2022 22:00:43 -0500

M2 and M16A1.

Response by COL Chris Shepherd made Nov 6 at 2022 10:35 PM

COL Chris Shepherd — Sun, 06 Nov 2022 22:35:12 -0500

It’s not oldest by design year, but first weapon I qualified with was an M-14, 7.62 mm

Response by SFC Tim Miller made Nov 7 at 2022 7:51 AM

SFC Tim Miller — Mon, 07 Nov 2022 07:51:11 -0500

Besides the M1911 pistol, and the M2 machine gun, as a Marine 0341 we used the WWII and Korean era M224 60 mm Mortars.

Response by SFC Joseph Behmke made Nov 7 at 2022 12:30 PM

SFC Joseph Behmke — Mon, 07 Nov 2022 12:30:26 -0500

My M1911 only had 4 serial numbers while I was a 19E30 in 3/84-4 Armor Tng Bn the 5 years I was a reservist in the early 80’s.

Response by SGT Bob Straub made Nov 7 at 2022 1:27 PM

SGT Bob Straub — Mon, 07 Nov 2022 13:27:26 -0500

Trained with the 1911 but never fired it in combat. Fired the 50 Cal. many times atop an ACAV, beautiful weapon fairly reliable only jammed a couple of times. One night we fired so many rounds through it the barrel got white hot so you could the see the outline of the bore within the barrel. Beautiful weapon.

Response by CMSgt Elbert E. Clayton made Nov 7 at 2022 4:50 PM

CMSgt Elbert E. Clayton — Mon, 07 Nov 2022 16:50:50 -0500

Can't compete with the age of weapons already noted, but in 1964 at Greenville AFB, MS I earned my "Expert" qualification using a Mossberg 22 rifle. I thought it was a bit funny, but it may have been for purposes of cost savings.

Response by TSgt David Olson made Nov 8 at 2022 12:00 AM

TSgt David Olson — Tue, 08 Nov 2022 00:00:34 -0500

As a military policeman in the early-mid 60’s obviously the Colt .45. In basic my cycle was the last to be married to the M1 Grand. Overseas, a .45 cal grease gun and a Thompson sub-machine gun. Add both the .30 cal machine gun and the .50 cal machine gun. The Thompson came out toward the end of WW1, along with the B-A-R rifle.

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 8 at 2022 10:09 AM

SSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 08 Nov 2022 10:09:02 -0500

M-16 and 38

Response by PO1 Todd B. made Nov 8 at 2022 3:31 PM

PO1 Todd B. — Tue, 08 Nov 2022 15:31:34 -0500

Toss up between the .1911, M-1 Garand and the .50 cal. I fired all three on ship for quals in 1983, while at sea. .1911 was and is my all time favorite still. M-1 Garand and the naval version, the M-14, I hate because the very first time I fired the thing, it cut off the tip of my middle finger from that bolt action slide bar when fired. And the .50 cal.. well, it's a .50 cal!

Response by 1LT Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 8 at 2022 3:32 PM

1LT Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 08 Nov 2022 15:32:27 -0500

The knife hand.

Response by SSgt Ronald Krogel made Nov 8 at 2022 11:25 PM

SSgt Ronald Krogel — Tue, 08 Nov 2022 23:25:29 -0500

Mine would be the M79 Grenade launcher as well as that Smith and Wesson 38. But I had fired an M60 that felt 200 years old, it blew up on me while firing, broken yoke.

Response by MAJ Glenn Lasater made Nov 9 at 2022 12:16 AM

MAJ Glenn Lasater — Wed, 09 Nov 2022 00:16:40 -0500

I first qualified with the M1 Garand rifle in 1963. After boot camp, I qualified with the M15 once in tech school and thereafter with the M16. I also qualified with the M2 machine gun, 1911 pistol, M60 machine gun, and the M79 and M203 grenade launchers.

Response by PO2 Loy Frye made Nov 9 at 2022 2:33 AM

PO2 Loy Frye — Wed, 09 Nov 2022 02:33:07 -0500

Back in the 90s I stood roving security watch with a M14.

Response by Capt Seid Waddell made Nov 9 at 2022 3:48 AM

Capt Seid Waddell — Wed, 09 Nov 2022 03:48:09 -0500

Colt 1911 and Smith & Wesson .38.

Response by SGT John Overby made Nov 10 at 2022 1:17 PM

SGT John Overby — Thu, 10 Nov 2022 13:17:13 -0500

I was in basic in 1969. We trained with the M14 rifle, during AIT we used the M79 Grenade Launcher.

Response by PO3 David Keck made Nov 20 at 2022 11:18 AM

PO3 David Keck — Sun, 20 Nov 2022 11:18:22 -0500

In 1975 Navy recruits still drilled with 1903 Springfield. I believe we were one of the last companies to do so.

Response by SPC William Szkromiuk made Nov 20 at 2022 2:39 PM

SPC William Szkromiuk — Sun, 20 Nov 2022 14:39:14 -0500

Carried loaded 1911 while on Prisoner Escort duty on Post and while traveling. Qualified Expert on M-14. Fired M-60 and .50 for familiarization. Walked guard duty with an M-1 at AIT. Some of the older guys in my unit in Germany got to fire familiarization with the Bazooka! I thought that was weird. We were Signal Battalion.

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Nov 20 at 2022 9:16 PM

MAJ Ken Landgren — Sun, 20 Nov 2022 21:16:40 -0500

A spear but damn those mammoths were hard to bring down. For some reason I was the bastard who was picked to throw the first spear.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 21 at 2022 2:25 PM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 21 Nov 2022 14:25:22 -0500

1911A1 & the "Pig".

Response by SGT James Hunsinger made Nov 21 at 2022 3:38 PM

SGT James Hunsinger — Mon, 21 Nov 2022 15:38:04 -0500

In basic training (1988) my M-16 was a Vietnam Era A1. I humped a pig (M-60) for three years with 10th Mountain Division and then for a year in Korea. I loved the M-60. I was pretty good with it.

Response by CSM Charles Hayden made Nov 21 at 2022 5:42 PM

CSM Charles Hayden — Mon, 21 Nov 2022 17:42:53 -0500

MSG Lonnie Averkamp No one else has claimed they fired the 3.5 inch Rocket Launcher like I did in the 1964 time frame. A successor to the 2.36 inch earlier model, its back blast area was hazardous to ignorant bystanders. SGT Private RallyPoint Member

The Gun Jeep mounted 105/106 mm Recoilless Rifle and its 50 caliber spotting rifle has also been neglected. The 50 cal was cool as a spotter, the main gun would cause fires to start fires in its black blast area. My kid brother, the one that was KIA in ‘Nam, had earlier been a 11H Gunner in Germany before re-upping for ‘Nam.He said ‘they’ could recon a target, approach with the Gun Jeep, fire a spotting round, fire the main gun and vamouse in 60 seconds or less.

.

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Dec 1 at 2022 2:06 PM

MAJ Ken Landgren — Thu, 01 Dec 2022 14:06:46 -0500

I think the oldest tools known to man are rocks. I threw plenty of rocks.

Response by SSG Gordon Holmes made Dec 2 at 2022 3:50 PM

SSG Gordon Holmes — Fri, 02 Dec 2022 15:50:36 -0500

Colt 1911, M1-D while at Ft. Bragg.

Response by MSgt Steven Smigelski made Dec 4 at 2022 1:20 PM

MSgt Steven Smigelski — Sun, 04 Dec 2022 13:20:18 -0500

Like everyone, the 1911A1 and Ma Deuce. In 1987 the Guard was standing up its snipers (the Army was pushing it, but it didn't push long or very determined). Guard units were equipped for civil disturbance, so we used our M14's (12 each) and M1D's (4 each) to accomplish the marksmanship training.

Response by SSG Gordon Holmes made Dec 5 at 2022 4:03 PM

SSG Gordon Holmes — Mon, 05 Dec 2022 16:03:00 -0500

My last year active I carried a 90mm recoiless rifle. I was trained on the 90mm and 106mm recoiless rifles and then the TOW. I used the TOW with the 82nd.

Response by 1st Lt Mark Marshall made Dec 7 at 2022 7:30 PM

1st Lt Mark Marshall — Wed, 07 Dec 2022 19:30:02 -0500

Rocks and sticks

Response by LTC Ralph Racioppi made Dec 7 at 2022 8:14 PM

LTC Ralph Racioppi — Wed, 07 Dec 2022 20:14:24 -0500

3.5 MM Rocket Launcher, the Bazooka! While in OCS in 1967.

Response by Cpl Kane Tilander made Dec 8 at 2022 6:15 PM

Cpl Kane Tilander — Thu, 08 Dec 2022 18:15:44 -0500

M-14 and Colt 1911

Response by Lt Col Eric Snyder made Dec 8 at 2022 7:58 PM

Lt Col Eric Snyder — Thu, 08 Dec 2022 19:58:05 -0500

M1 Garand in 1967 at Clark Air Base, PI. I had a small Detachment of communicators a few miles from Clark and the 6922 SW. We had a rack of 8 M1's (and my TSgt and I had .45's) and were expected to use them to defend ourselves should we be attacked (by who???). The M16 was routinely issued in those days so I guess we got the M1 because we were bottom of the pile. Clark was abandoned after Mount Pinatubo started erupting in June 1991 so those M1's might still be there-under the ashes.

Response by Lt Col Eric Snyder made Dec 8 at 2022 7:58 PM

Lt Col Eric Snyder — Thu, 08 Dec 2022 19:58:34 -0500

Response by SFC Frederick Dalton made Dec 10 at 2022 2:30 PM

SFC Frederick Dalton — Sat, 10 Dec 2022 14:30:48 -0500

I’m not sure how old it was, but my issue M-16A1 in Basic Training (1987) was stamped:
AR-15/M16 MOD
GENERAL MOTORS, HYDRAMATIC DIVISION

Response by SSG John C Quigley II made Dec 31 at 2022 5:25 PM

SSG John C Quigley II — Sat, 31 Dec 2022 17:25:43 -0500

I even vividly remember the size and pain of the M-1 thumb. Learned very quickly how to load it without getting the thumb again. Actually liked that rifle and fired sharpshooter with it. Of course it was 1963, at Ft. Dix NJ. When I got to my duty station in Dreux France, we had the M14. I even bought the civilian model at the PX. Still have it, great hunting gun, what you hit went down and stayed down.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 27 at 2023 9:25 PM

1SG Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 27 Jan 2023 21:25:51 -0500

M198 howitzer with the sieral number of 00007. Used up untill 2010. Now Saudis have it, once we went to m777 howitzers. Otherwise the old m101 & m102 howitzers

Response by SSG Robert Pratt made Feb 5 at 2023 10:48 PM

SSG Robert Pratt — Sun, 05 Feb 2023 22:48:45 -0500

I first used the M2 .50 cal when I was on Sheridans back in the day and didn't use one again until the M1 series tanks came out. The oldest tank I was on...that's a toss-up between the M48A5 and an old M60A1 I once had at Ft Riley. The M60A1 had an old M60 hull (dtd 1961 I believe) with an A1 turret with add-on stab and IR sights. The M48A5 on the other hand was a Ft Drum during a rotation there. It had the later 105mm gun turret. Not sure which was actually older. The M1911 pistols had had were indeed old, including the "smooth bore" 1911 I had during the first Gulf War.

Response by SGT George Edward Brown made Feb 6 at 2023 7:53 PM

SGT George Edward Brown — Mon, 06 Feb 2023 19:53:08 -0500

I OWNED A 1911 AND A M-1 CARBINE WELL BEFORE I ENTERED THE USA (1965-1968) YOU'LL CRY IF I TOLD YOU WHAT I PAYED FOR THEM AND I STILL HAVE BOTH. IN VN I WAS NEVER ISSUED A 1911 BUT MANAGED TO AQUIRE ONE UNTIL I TRADED IT FOR A SLR CAMERA. I WAS THERE WHEN THE DIRTY AMMO WAS BEING GIVEN TO US FOR THE M-16 (BASIC & AIT TRAINED WITH THE M-14) AND WOULD HAVE LOVED TO GET MY HANDS ON A M-1 CARBINE OR M-37 SHOTGUN RATHER THEN THE M-16. SO SHORT ANSWER WAS THE 45 1911. THE OLDEST MILITARY RIFLE I OWN IS A 1898 KRAG (30-40).

Response by Lt Col Scott Shuttleworth made Feb 7 at 2023 5:12 PM

Lt Col Scott Shuttleworth — Tue, 07 Feb 2023 17:12:03 -0500

.38 Revolver

Response by COL Scott Pacello made Feb 10 at 2023 2:14 PM

COL Scott Pacello — Fri, 10 Feb 2023 14:14:45 -0500

1911 .45 cal that malfunctioned on me in a bunker on 20 February 1991 in Iraq, as I was capturing a hiding out battalion commander. Wrote it up in a story after I retired in 2011.
That was a crazy day. But we were successful and as an end result won that war.
Anyways, it’s good to share our stories.. no matter what went down on the day or days.
Maybe our administrations will sort themselves out one day, and not at the expense of deploying our folks.
-Scott

Response by PO1 Andrey Korobovsky made Feb 10 at 2023 2:46 PM

PO1 Andrey Korobovsky — Fri, 10 Feb 2023 14:46:24 -0500

The .45 was still the issue sidearm when I joined the Navy in 1980. Shot it in boot camp and then carried it as a Security member until the Barretta 92FS replaced it. The price of going NATO standard was losing a great American weapon with the 1911.

Response by PO3 Rod Arnold made Feb 12 at 2023 12:53 AM

PO3 Rod Arnold — Sun, 12 Feb 2023 00:53:21 -0500

1903 Springfield

Response by SPC Steven Nihipali made Feb 12 at 2023 3:54 PM

SPC Steven Nihipali — Sun, 12 Feb 2023 15:54:28 -0500

Are we talking, anything? I drove an 87 hemmet in WAANG back in 2010... 50cal, we think, was issued to the unit in 72.. post Vietnam

Response by CSM John Cartwright made Feb 12 at 2023 4:02 PM

CSM John Cartwright — Sun, 12 Feb 2023 16:02:53 -0500

Colt 1911,and M-3 Greasegun

Response by TSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 13 at 2023 12:31 AM

TSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 13 Feb 2023 00:31:12 -0500

Not the oldest but my favorite was a M79 gernade launcher.
I/we had sawed off and customnized them to carry in a hip holster when recon recon on HK teams to mark targets with Willy Pete for cobras from the low OH6A. We also sawed off and customnized our M60s and hung them from a bunggy cord. And of course the pilots had colt 45s. C troop 7/17th Air Cav Aerial Scouts

Response by MGySgt Ron Soens made Feb 13 at 2023 11:16 AM

MGySgt Ron Soens — Mon, 13 Feb 2023 11:16:49 -0500

Since the question is more about being used but NOT specifically used in combat, it would have to be my Marine NCO Sword. Adopted in 1859 and still in use today (and until Hell freezes over...), albeit more for ceremonial purposes, yet still a weapon.
As for fired in combat, it's the Ma-Deuce mounted out the Port window of my Phrog in Iraq.
On another note, while assigned to HMM-161 in Iraq, I was the only one in the squadron OLDER than the aircraft we were flying (early 60's)! Still, the venerable Phrogs flew with distinction and resolve.

Response by SFC Ernest Thurston made Feb 13 at 2023 9:58 PM

SFC Ernest Thurston — Mon, 13 Feb 2023 21:58:08 -0500

The M16A1, Mi6A2 with M203 grenade launcher, the model 1911 45 Cal pistol. the M2 machine gun, the M14, the M79 grenade launcher, the MK19 grenade machine gun, the .38 cal special revolver (detective special) and the M60 machine gun (which I humped when we went downrange.) Believe it or not I was not a grunt. I was a combat MP.

Response by 1SG Jimmy Bacon made Feb 14 at 2023 10:51 AM

1SG Jimmy Bacon — Tue, 14 Feb 2023 10:51:08 -0500

Started basic training with the M14 and finished with the M16. A year or two, in my first T&OE unit we received the revised M16 with the new muzzle.

Response by MAJ Louis Giamo made Feb 14 at 2023 2:33 PM

MAJ Louis Giamo — Tue, 14 Feb 2023 14:33:32 -0500

Being SF, I had the opportunity to work with a lot of weapons that dated back to WWI. If they could be found in use somewhere in the world, we trained on them.

Response by SFC Michael Greenwell made Feb 14 at 2023 7:40 PM

SFC Michael Greenwell — Tue, 14 Feb 2023 19:40:03 -0500

As with most one of the oldest was the M2 .50 caliber Machinegun, also the .45 Cal. Model 1911 and while I served at JRTC as OPFOR, my issued weapon was an MX-16 with a 3 digit serial number. We also had another soldier whose M16 had a rifle with the Mattel insignia on the pistol grip. The rifle itself was made by Colt, but the pistol grip by Mattel toy manufacturer. Also at Aberdeen Proving Grounds I was able to fire the M3 "Grease Gun". All fantastic weapons to fire.

Response by SFC Kenneth Schob made Feb 15 at 2023 3:26 PM

SFC Kenneth Schob — Wed, 15 Feb 2023 15:26:28 -0500

The oldest weapon I used in the military was the M14 rifle in basic training (quite enduring doing rifle PT), then I had the M16 rifle and M2 .50 cal machine gun in Vietnam.

SFC (Ret) Kenneth S.

Response by PO1 Mike Wallace made Feb 19 at 2023 8:17 PM

PO1 Mike Wallace — Sun, 19 Feb 2023 20:17:25 -0500

03 Springfield. It's what we carried in Navy boot camp. You said used but we didn't shoot them just had to lug that beast around. Shooting wise it was the 1911.

Response by SSG Eric Blue made Feb 20 at 2023 6:44 PM

SSG Eric Blue — Mon, 20 Feb 2023 18:44:04 -0500

Oldest used in service? M60 Machine Gun in BCT...as far as I know, anyway. Oldest in my possession? A trench knife and a bayonet from WWI.

Response by SN Alan West made Mar 3 at 2023 3:39 PM

SN Alan West — Fri, 03 Mar 2023 15:39:15 -0500

I served aboard a WWII Battleship, USS Iowa (BB-61), and was working in both the 5” and 16” guns.

Response by SCPO Lloyd Sikes made Mar 5 at 2023 11:02 PM

SCPO Lloyd Sikes — Sun, 05 Mar 2023 23:02:21 -0500

BAR and Thompson, and as always thr rugged 911

Response by SMSgt Lawrence McCarter made Mar 9 at 2023 8:00 AM

SMSgt Lawrence McCarter — Thu, 09 Mar 2023 08:00:45 -0500

In My case the 50 caliber, the M1 Garand plus M1 and M2 carbines and even the Springfield 03. Of course used the M16 when it was a new addition to Military firearms.

Response by 1LT Brian Tychonski made Mar 9 at 2023 8:49 AM

1LT Brian Tychonski — Thu, 09 Mar 2023 08:49:55 -0500

One very loose and rattling 1911A1. I looked at it and said "I've got a nicer one than this at home."

Response by CW3 Kevin Storm made Mar 9 at 2023 12:03 PM

CW3 Kevin Storm — Thu, 09 Mar 2023 12:03:11 -0500

M2, M3, 1911 were the oldest Arms I have fired. I used to own a sporter Krag Rifle in 30-40 or .30 Army (try looking for that by that name, stick with .30-40)

Response by MAJ Ronnie Reams made Mar 9 at 2023 2:46 PM

MAJ Ronnie Reams — Thu, 09 Mar 2023 14:46:02 -0500

M-1903 rifle

Response by MAJ Paul Graham made Mar 9 at 2023 4:52 PM

MAJ Paul Graham — Thu, 09 Mar 2023 16:52:45 -0500

Same 3,plus brief stints with M1 Garand and M14.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 10 at 2023 4:09 AM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 10 Mar 2023 04:09:29 -0500

M3 Grease Gun

Response by SPC Tommy Dean made Mar 10 at 2023 12:44 PM

SPC Tommy Dean — Fri, 10 Mar 2023 12:44:55 -0500

M3 grease gun was my assigned carry. M2 was the crew serve weapon on my 88.

Response by SGT Brigitte Baker made Mar 10 at 2023 2:43 PM

SGT Brigitte Baker — Fri, 10 Mar 2023 14:43:23 -0500

Ma Deuce, of course! That was a fun day. I served on the .50 Cal crew, carried an M16 (various versions thereof), and an M203. I qualified with a 9mm Beretta, too but it wasn't my weapon, I went to the range with the S-3 one day, and fired his.

Response by SP5 Douglas Murphy made Mar 10 at 2023 3:04 PM

SP5 Douglas Murphy — Fri, 10 Mar 2023 15:04:58 -0500

Carried a 1911(and M-79), M2 was mounted on our M-113.

Response by SGT Gary Stemen made Mar 10 at 2023 3:07 PM

SGT Gary Stemen — Fri, 10 Mar 2023 15:07:08 -0500

Model 1911, M2, M1 Garand manufactured by International Harvester....

Response by MGySgt James Smith made Mar 10 at 2023 5:50 PM

MGySgt James Smith — Fri, 10 Mar 2023 17:50:33 -0500

When I was in ITR after boot camp in early 65 we were issued M 1's and BAR's. Also went through the low crawl under wire with live overhead fire from the old .30 cal MG's

Response by SFC Terry Murphy made Mar 11 at 2023 8:39 AM

SFC Terry Murphy — Sat, 11 Mar 2023 08:39:11 -0500

M1911, M3 Grease Gun, M2, and in Panama I was issued amM16E1.

Response by SFC Jim Hall made Mar 11 at 2023 5:47 PM

SFC Jim Hall — Sat, 11 Mar 2023 17:47:58 -0500

M1911 .45 ACP next oldest M2 .50 cal then the M67 90 mm Recoilless rifle.

Response by A1C Medrick "Rick" DeVaney made Mar 12 at 2023 9:25 AM

A1C Medrick "Rick" DeVaney — Sun, 12 Mar 2023 09:25:14 -0400

EASY.. THIS Weapon Is Verified To Be Over 100,000 Years Old,
It's Called A "ROCK"

Response by Sgt James Biear made Mar 12 at 2023 9:30 AM

Sgt James Biear — Sun, 12 Mar 2023 09:30:46 -0400

Should my USMC NCO Sword be part of this conversation?

Response by SFC William Linnell made Mar 12 at 2023 10:25 AM

SFC William Linnell — Sun, 12 Mar 2023 10:25:09 -0400

For me it was a familiarization on the old grease gun. Then firing it. The M1911, tankers primary personal weapon, the .50 cal which is the TC crew served weapon. Then the M1 Abrams from 84' - 2012 when I retired, she is over 40 years old.

Response by MAJ Montgomery Granger made Mar 12 at 2023 12:43 PM

MAJ Montgomery Granger — Sun, 12 Mar 2023 12:43:41 -0400

I joined the California National Guard in 1986. We had the old .45 caliber sidearms and M16-A1 carbines, although some of them (including mine) were the modified AR-15's! M-60 machine guns and M-203 grenade launchers!

Response by SFC John Gilmore made Mar 12 at 2023 8:30 PM

SFC John Gilmore — Sun, 12 Mar 2023 20:30:02 -0400

M1911 of course...and I had a .50cal in my TOW platoon that had 1944 stamped on the receiver. I had the opportunity to fire some older weapons (BREN, STEN, FAL Etc) but as far as issued weapons, the.45 and Ma Deuce are the oldest.

Response by SGT Lance LeBerte made Mar 12 at 2023 8:48 PM

SGT Lance LeBerte — Sun, 12 Mar 2023 20:48:38 -0400

I qualified with the .38 revolver, never saw it again, also fired (not qualified) from a landing craft LCU 2000 class, open water firing was cool

Response by SPC John Kinne made Mar 12 at 2023 11:33 PM

SPC John Kinne — Sun, 12 Mar 2023 23:33:23 -0400

I was issued a 1911 in 1990. Then they took that away and gave a grease gun. That was in Germany

Response by SSG Gregg Mourizen made Mar 13 at 2023 1:48 AM

SSG Gregg Mourizen — Mon, 13 Mar 2023 01:48:48 -0400

I'm not sure which was older. A few 1911's, or the M-2's. I know one was stamped from the 30's.
I fired a WW2 era 4.2 in mortar, that was handed down to the Japanese Defense Forces.
One thing is for sure. I have fired 4.2 in mortar rounds dated in the 30's and 40's. My 4.2 in mortar was stamped with 1956.

Response by SPC Steve Willis, PhD made Mar 14 at 2023 10:19 AM

SPC Steve Willis, PhD — Tue, 14 Mar 2023 10:19:00 -0400

Definitely a 1911A1. Still in love with the platform!

Response by MSG Bob S made Mar 14 at 2023 11:47 AM

MSG Bob S — Tue, 14 Mar 2023 11:47:29 -0400

An M-16 A-1 during basic training in March - May 1992

Response by SSG Gordon Holmes made Mar 14 at 2023 5:35 PM

SSG Gordon Holmes — Tue, 14 Mar 2023 17:35:13 -0400

90mm and 106mm recoilless rifles.

Response by SFC Dan Hochgreve made Mar 14 at 2023 6:22 PM

SFC Dan Hochgreve — Tue, 14 Mar 2023 18:22:24 -0400

First deployment Vietnam was rifle, M16A1

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 15 at 2023 11:15 AM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 15 Mar 2023 11:15:56 -0400

For me a tanker in the eighties- M2, 1911 and M3 (Grease Gun). All were an absolute joy to fire.

Response by SPC Kenneth James made Mar 15 at 2023 2:33 PM

SPC Kenneth James — Wed, 15 Mar 2023 14:33:41 -0400

Does the law count anymore as old and of course 155 mm howitzer and claymore

Response by SPC Kenneth James made Mar 15 at 2023 2:37 PM

SPC Kenneth James — Wed, 15 Mar 2023 14:37:34 -0400

Sorry for the new soldiers law is the light anti tank weapon yes it could stop a tank not like in Rambo where he shoots of one in A helicopter with people aboard the back blast would have killed everyone

Response by SGT Wayne Grindstaff made Mar 15 at 2023 9:15 PM

SGT Wayne Grindstaff — Wed, 15 Mar 2023 21:15:12 -0400

Being Mech Infantry I used both the 1911 and M2. The 1911 was always with me, I even had it on my left hip in the photo. But I did shoot another old one once in RVN, it was a M1918 BAR that I repaired for an ARVN and then tested the hell out of it. There was also many non issue firearms carried, either sent from home or passed on by guys finishing their tour.

Response by SSgt William Blanshan made Mar 15 at 2023 9:47 PM

SSgt William Blanshan — Wed, 15 Mar 2023 21:47:27 -0400

M-1 Garand in sniper school. The WWI bolt action model

Response by Sgt Robert Beckwith made Mar 15 at 2023 10:00 PM

Sgt Robert Beckwith — Wed, 15 Mar 2023 22:00:18 -0400

1911. Marines get everything the Navy throws out.

Response by PO2 Joan MacNeill made Mar 16 at 2023 9:00 AM

PO2 Joan MacNeill — Thu, 16 Mar 2023 09:00:21 -0400

Haven't seen anything earlier here yet, so Springfield '03 rifles we used for drill in boot camp looks best so far. Even though they were disabled (we were told) we still "used" them. As for "weapon" you could still club them or attach a bayonet. Also, since the 30.06 round dates back to 1903, you could include it with the Springfield rifle as a vintage weapon item. Myself and hordes of others used it in the legendary M1. My Winchester '94 was used by the military, but I didn't use one then.

And, just to get nit-picky, most GI "1911"s are actually 1911A1s, which came along in 1926.

Response by SSG Bob Robertson made Mar 17 at 2023 5:26 AM

SSG Bob Robertson — Fri, 17 Mar 2023 05:26:58 -0400

It would be the C-Ration food in a can. It seems like it was made in the early 1800's. We would leave some of it laying around in enemy territory and any hungry enemy would eat it and die.

Response by Sgt Earle Wingate made Mar 18 at 2023 8:52 AM

Sgt Earle Wingate — Sat, 18 Mar 2023 08:52:48 -0400

The jawbone of an ass. Looking back, as a Sargeant, I gave some really stupid orders......

Response by SFC Leslie Caudill made Mar 18 at 2023 8:49 PM

SFC Leslie Caudill — Sat, 18 Mar 2023 20:49:45 -0400

The 1911, the M2 .50 cal, and even though I didn't "use" it, I did get to fire a B.A.R.

Response by CMSgt Donald ONeill made Mar 18 at 2023 9:57 PM

CMSgt Donald ONeill — Sat, 18 Mar 2023 21:57:14 -0400

Was in the Special Forces in Vietnam we had the M1919 air cooled 30 cal machine guns in our camp no M-60's . From time to time I carried a M2 30 Cal carbine , a Thompson sub machine gun , the first issue of the AR 16 . Side arm was a M1911 45 and was given a Browning High power 9mm by a SOG guy .

Response by SGT John Overby made Mar 19 at 2023 5:48 PM

SGT John Overby — Sun, 19 Mar 2023 17:48:05 -0400

M-14, M-79 Grenade Launcher

Response by Sgt Randall Dunkley made Mar 19 at 2023 6:42 PM

Sgt Randall Dunkley — Sun, 19 Mar 2023 18:42:54 -0400

M1911A1, M3A1 SMG, M2HB, M1 rifle, M1873 Springfield (Patriotic Flag Pageant) M1919A4 and M1918A2 BAR.

Response by SPC William Sloan made Mar 20 at 2023 7:20 AM

SPC William Sloan — Mon, 20 Mar 2023 07:20:28 -0400

When I was stationed in Germany 87-90, as a Small Arms Repairman there was a unit we supported that were still using M3A1 grease gun submachine guns and M67 recoilless rifles.

Response by PO2 Robert Kelly made Mar 21 at 2023 11:40 AM

PO2 Robert Kelly — Tue, 21 Mar 2023 11:40:45 -0400

I had a 1911 in the guard, I was the .60 gunner. We had the m2 and while in the navy we had m1 garands for the rifle team. I still have a Springfield 1911 and a garand, love them.

Response by SFC Ernest Thurston made Mar 21 at 2023 3:58 PM

SFC Ernest Thurston — Tue, 21 Mar 2023 15:58:14 -0400

Someone else's response tweaked my memory. I never really carried this but fired it on the range and we had them in our inventory. The LAWS rocket launcher. We had to practice with them all the time and it was on the Soldiers Proficiency test for the hands on portion.

Response by SFC Ernest Thurston made Mar 21 at 2023 4:09 PM

SFC Ernest Thurston — Tue, 21 Mar 2023 16:09:00 -0400

I invented my own weapon while on an FTX just for fun. I took an expended M-60 blank casing and stuck it in the muzzle of my M-16 loaded with a blank. I then launched it like a miniature mortar. The guy in the foxhole farther down the perimeter couldn't figure out why he kept having rounds dropped on his helmet. It was also effective for shooting lizards from the trees. The stupid stuff privates will do when they are bored. :-)

Response by Capt Mark Strobl made Mar 21 at 2023 7:10 PM

Capt Mark Strobl — Tue, 21 Mar 2023 19:10:51 -0400

Since 1826. The Mameluke! (I’ve cut a lot of birthday cake with this.)

Response by CW3 Charles Morris made Mar 21 at 2023 11:38 PM

CW3 Charles Morris — Tue, 21 Mar 2023 23:38:15 -0400

I trained on the M-16 in 1973 but was issued the M-14 at my first duty station, TUSLOG Detachment 4 in Sinop, Turkey.

But, if we weren't talking weapons, the oldest system I used was the AN/MLQ-24. Anyone out there remember using it?

Response by SFC William Farrell made Mar 23 at 2023 12:07 AM

SFC William Farrell — Thu, 23 Mar 2023 00:07:35 -0400

Thompson machine-gun in Vietnam.

Response by GySgt Jack Wallace made Apr 16 at 2023 6:24 PM

GySgt Jack Wallace — Sun, 16 Apr 2023 18:24:14 -0400

Rebuilt colt 45 1911. When you turn your hand side-to-side while holding the pistol you could near it rattle. But, in every case it fired. Note; when in close-quarters it makes an very effective club weapon also. Thats all I'am saying about that.

Response by SP5 Walter Mearkle made Apr 16 at 2023 11:26 PM

SP5 Walter Mearkle — Sun, 16 Apr 2023 23:26:27 -0400

We used the M1 Garand Rifle in Basic Training during the summer of 1962 at Ft. Leonard Wood in Missouri. I loved taking it apart and cleaning it.

Response by SGT Bill Christian made Apr 17 at 2023 11:15 PM

SGT Bill Christian — Mon, 17 Apr 2023 23:15:21 -0400

1911 M2 M60

Response by CMDCM Gene Treants made Apr 18 at 2023 12:24 AM

CMDCM Gene Treants — Tue, 18 Apr 2023 00:24:59 -0400

You are correct, the Navy .45 Cal. Model 1911 Pistol is the oldest I used. I qualified with that and then the M-1 as well. It is not that the Navy never disposes of things, it is that the Navy does not get all of the new toys our sister services get, especially the Air Force. I had ammo on Guam for my weapons that were older than the Air Force.

Unfortunately, I do not have a Navy 1911 or any other 1911. I do however have an M-1 Carbine. It is in great condition and still very accurate. (No, I did not use this one in the Navy, but I inherited it from my dad.)

Response by SSG Gerald Thornhill made Apr 18 at 2023 8:15 AM

SSG Gerald Thornhill — Tue, 18 Apr 2023 08:15:09 -0400

The 45 cal. 1911, M-1 Rifle in basic training, the M-14 shortly after basic and the 45-cal. grease gun as a tanker. I also fired the 30-cal. machine gan and the 50-cal. machine gun on the tank. The big gun on the tank was a 90mm.

Response by SPC Joshua Ulch made Apr 18 at 2023 12:12 PM

SPC Joshua Ulch — Tue, 18 Apr 2023 12:12:08 -0400

While I’ve worked with an M2 for Unit Armour training, the M60 was the oldest I’ve been on a range with…

Response by SPC Joshua Ulch made Apr 18 at 2023 12:28 PM

SPC Joshua Ulch — Tue, 18 Apr 2023 12:28:13 -0400

On active duty, oldest on a range is M60.

As a civilian, I’ve used the M1928A1 (Tommy Gun) and a M1918 30 Cal.

Response by SPC Pat Ras made Apr 18 at 2023 3:37 PM

SPC Pat Ras — Tue, 18 Apr 2023 15:37:22 -0400

M60 that was authentically used in viet Nam I was told.

Response by SPC Pat Ras made Apr 18 at 2023 3:38 PM

SPC Pat Ras — Tue, 18 Apr 2023 15:38:36 -0400

My part I liked in service was making bridges, sappers clear the way yet their also bridge construction.

Response by 1SG Ernest Stull made Apr 18 at 2023 4:09 PM

1SG Ernest Stull — Tue, 18 Apr 2023 16:09:22 -0400

M1911, M2,M60, M79, M14, Benelli shotgun, qualified on all of the above to include the M9, M16a1 and A2, M249 SAW. AK47, 9mm Markov, Cannot think of anything else at present.

Response by SGT Joseph Dutton made Apr 18 at 2023 9:33 PM

SGT Joseph Dutton — Tue, 18 Apr 2023 21:33:22 -0400

M1911A1 both in the Navy & Army. I have been looking for one for many years. But only to find worn out ones ranging from about 1K$'s and upwards also civilian knock offs. Found me one for 350.00$'s Turkish made. They bought the Blue Prints from Colt and reproduced it right down to the Lanyard Loop.

Response by Sgt Tilmon Alpers made Apr 20 at 2023 8:05 AM

Sgt Tilmon Alpers — Thu, 20 Apr 2023 08:05:14 -0400

1911 and M14

Response by Sgt Tilmon Alpers made Apr 20 at 2023 8:07 AM

Sgt Tilmon Alpers — Thu, 20 Apr 2023 08:07:36 -0400

Forgot M79 grenade launcher

Response by PO2 Mike Keyes made Apr 20 at 2023 10:30 AM

PO2 Mike Keyes — Thu, 20 Apr 2023 10:30:03 -0400

Colt 1911 and M14 rifle, in the 1980s.

Response by SGT Beth Day made Apr 20 at 2023 1:27 PM

SGT Beth Day — Thu, 20 Apr 2023 13:27:58 -0400

As you noted, the .45 Cal. Model 1911.
I also had the opportunity to fire a German WWI pistol, I believe it was a Luger, but don't remember the model. Although not the weapon we used for Schützenschnur qualification, it was there to fire if we wanted.

Response by Cpl Craig Howard made Apr 20 at 2023 10:35 PM

Cpl Craig Howard — Thu, 20 Apr 2023 22:35:32 -0400

I shot the M1911 as the first hand gun, but it was when were transitioning to the Barretta. All Marine Corp Armories were required to keep a few .38's in good working order, so I checked one out one day. Shot it side by side with my Dan Wesson .45LC with Mag loads. Everyone saw the little .38, then BOOM and a big old hole in the target. It was a good day to put holes in paper.

Response by CPL Chris Palmberg made Apr 21 at 2023 3:01 PM

CPL Chris Palmberg — Fri, 21 Apr 2023 15:01:27 -0400

I mean, the VFW legion color guard I helped out with used M-1903 Springfields modified to fire only blanks...

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 21 at 2023 3:50 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 21 Apr 2023 15:50:09 -0400

I did get to operate a m60 and the m2a1. Hate the new m2’s

Response by Sgt Mervyn Russell made Apr 23 at 2023 5:17 AM

Sgt Mervyn Russell — Sun, 23 Apr 2023 05:17:06 -0400

Yes, I carried the 1911 pistol .45 caliber, and used the .50 caliber M2 Machinegun. The most remember rifle is the M-1 Garand. The basic M-14 rifle .308 or 7.62x51. Don't remember carrying any older ones than that.

Response by CPL James Hunter made Apr 23 at 2023 11:11 AM

CPL James Hunter — Sun, 23 Apr 2023 11:11:51 -0400

M14

Response by SGT Paul Mohney made Apr 23 at 2023 4:54 PM

SGT Paul Mohney — Sun, 23 Apr 2023 16:54:29 -0400

M60

Response by SGT Chris Padgett made Apr 24 at 2023 12:39 AM

SGT Chris Padgett — Mon, 24 Apr 2023 00:39:01 -0400

Aside from the standard M2 .50cal. I was part of a salute battery on Ft. Knox. We had WWII era M116 75mm pack howitzers that we shot. Never any live rounds though. Always wax pack blanks.
We also had 1903 Springfield and M1 Garands as well. Again, no live rounds, always blanks.

Response by SPC Woody Bullard made Apr 24 at 2023 11:30 AM

SPC Woody Bullard — Mon, 24 Apr 2023 11:30:03 -0400

As a MP in West Germany I was armed with the M1911A1 .45 Caliber Pistol
which was the Military Police sidearm with the 7 round magazine. 1969-1971

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 24 at 2023 2:21 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 24 Apr 2023 14:21:34 -0400

Grease gun and Colt 1911. Standard 19E issue along with the M60A4, MA Duce and LAW.

Response by PO2 Mike Keyes made Apr 25 at 2023 8:29 AM

PO2 Mike Keyes — Tue, 25 Apr 2023 08:29:47 -0400

We don't have to throw anything away...it will rusts away.

Response by SFC Aubrey Campbell made Apr 25 at 2023 1:37 PM

SFC Aubrey Campbell — Tue, 25 Apr 2023 13:37:57 -0400

M2 50 cal machine gun

Response by SPC Brian Stephens made May 9 at 2023 1:37 PM

SPC Brian Stephens — Tue, 09 May 2023 13:37:58 -0400

I was going to say the LAW, but the M-2 .50 cal would be older and likely had a longer life than the LAW.

Response by SPC Jim M. made May 21 at 2023 11:39 PM

SPC Jim M. — Sun, 21 May 2023 23:39:58 -0400

Being a dog handler on the DMZ in Korea in the late 60's, we were issued the model 1911 - .45 and were issued a 1917 pump shotgun 12 gauge. When we qualified on the rifle range we used an M-14.

Response by CPT Keith Hood made May 23 at 2023 12:00 AM

CPT Keith Hood — Tue, 23 May 2023 00:00:31 -0400

Not the oldest design by any means, but possibly the oldest by date of manufacturer - I was in a tank battalion in West Germany, and the sidearms for our drivers and loaders were M3 "grease guns". Korean War vintage. We had the slightly later design, the 'simplified' version that was cocked by opening the cover and putting a finger in a depression in the bolt to draw it back.

Response by SGT Patrick Jackson made May 23 at 2023 7:03 AM

SGT Patrick Jackson — Tue, 23 May 2023 07:03:58 -0400

Back in Dec. of 1981 I was lucky enough to cover a tanker qualification range and was given the unique oportunity to fire the M3 Grease Gun. Pretty Cool but I think this weapon gave homage to "Spray and Pray" Those .45 rounds were all over the place in the field of fire. I fired two magazines at the target at 25 yards. (I think). I believe if memory doesn't fail me I hit the target 3 times. LOL

Response by SGT Barry Wilson made May 23 at 2023 6:01 PM

SGT Barry Wilson — Tue, 23 May 2023 18:01:47 -0400

Carried a Remington M1911 as an MP at the Underground Pentagon and fired a few magazines through the M-3 grease guns at annual range qualifications. Qualified with the M-14 in Basic in 1967 and was issued the M-16 at Long Binh Post, Viet Nam and carried the Winchester 12 gauge shot-gun as tower guard supervisor at Long Binh Jail.

Response by MSG Robert Corriveau made May 23 at 2023 10:27 PM

MSG Robert Corriveau — Tue, 23 May 2023 22:27:00 -0400

https://gatdaily.com/the-type-36-and-37-the-chinese-grease-guns-and-their-impact/

The Type 36 and 37 - The Chinese Grease Guns and Their Impact

The Type 36 an later 37 submachine guns were designed by the Chinese and manfuactured in small batches and effectively used in WW2 and beyond.

Response by MSG Robert Corriveau made May 23 at 2023 10:27 PM

MSG Robert Corriveau — Tue, 23 May 2023 22:27:23 -0400

https://gatdaily.com/the-type-36-and-37-the-chinese-grease-guns-and-their-impact/

The Type 36 and 37 - The Chinese Grease Guns and Their Impact

The Type 36 an later 37 submachine guns were designed by the Chinese and manfuactured in small batches and effectively used in WW2 and beyond.

Response by SSG Ralph Watkins made May 23 at 2023 11:14 PM

SSG Ralph Watkins — Tue, 23 May 2023 23:14:02 -0400

My first duty assignment in 1980 my issued M-16 was an A1 prototype. It was an XM-16E1. Tears later when I went in the Guard, we took our unit's M-2 HMGs to Iraq. They had seen action at the Hurtgen Forest & the Battle of the Bulge. I have also fired the M-1911A1.

Response by SPC Dan Phariss made May 24 at 2023 7:25 PM

SPC Dan Phariss — Wed, 24 May 2023 19:25:02 -0400

Both the 1911 and the M2.

Response by SPC David Elzinga made May 25 at 2023 12:29 PM

SPC David Elzinga — Thu, 25 May 2023 12:29:05 -0400

Mine was a M1911, M16A1, M16 (made by Mattel),M60, canteen from 1964 etc…

Response by LTC Jerry Gordon made May 25 at 2023 1:12 PM

LTC Jerry Gordon — Thu, 25 May 2023 13:12:35 -0400

M-303 enfield rifle 30.06 cal. When I was a LRRP in the air Cav.

Response by SGT James Murphy made May 25 at 2023 1:40 PM

SGT James Murphy — Thu, 25 May 2023 13:40:26 -0400

For me it was the Colt 1911 and I went thru basic with an M-14. Still Love Em!

Response by SFC Kenneth Schob made May 26 at 2023 11:31 AM

SFC Kenneth Schob — Fri, 26 May 2023 11:31:53 -0400

The oldest weapon I used was the M-14 rifle during basic training in 1967. Talk about rough rifle PT. After that I had the M-16 in Vietnam but also used the M2 .50 Cal. MG.
Ken Schob

Response by SSG Paul Meadows made May 26 at 2023 5:55 PM

SSG Paul Meadows — Fri, 26 May 2023 17:55:15 -0400

1911 and the MA Duece, and got to shoot the M3 Greasegun one time.

Response by SPC Ken Jones made May 26 at 2023 9:14 PM

SPC Ken Jones — Fri, 26 May 2023 21:14:32 -0400

50cal machine gun

Response by 1SG Roy Hilliman made May 27 at 2023 8:49 AM

1SG Roy Hilliman — Sat, 27 May 2023 08:49:07 -0400

The oldest I've used was the M2 50 Cal "Ma Douche" , M67 "90 mm recoilless rifle", M45A1 ".45 cal 1911", M60 Machine gun. "The Pig", M79 "The Thumper" and the 66mm M72 LAW "light anti-tank weapon"

Response by PO1 Robert Ryan made May 27 at 2023 10:04 AM

PO1 Robert Ryan — Sat, 27 May 2023 10:04:48 -0400

The M-14 should have been kept as the basic weapon for the Armed Forces. However during my time performing MP duty the ,45 cal was with me whenever on duty,

Response by Cpl George Matousek made May 28 at 2023 11:40 AM

Cpl George Matousek — Sun, 28 May 2023 11:40:39 -0400

Colt 45 1911, in Vietnam, Semper Fi

Response by LTC David Keithley made May 30 at 2023 7:58 PM

LTC David Keithley — Tue, 30 May 2023 19:58:15 -0400

M14, M60, M79, 1911 Model 45 and S&W 38. The .38 when I was an enlisted crew chief on the UH-1 Huey! Im sure there were others back in ‘69, when I enlisted.

Response by SFC William Linnell made Jun 13 at 2023 7:20 AM

SFC William Linnell — Tue, 13 Jun 2023 07:20:48 -0400

Yes. Old school reliable weapons. My personal weapon was the M1911 .45 cal. From 84' thru Desert Storm then turning them in in 92' for the M9.
As a tanker, the M2 was the TCs weapon. We were all trained in how to fire it. Then we got the M2 Flex with the new M1A2 and M1A2SEP. Loved firing this version.

Response by TSgt Max Lugauer made Jun 14 at 2023 2:37 PM

TSgt Max Lugauer — Wed, 14 Jun 2023 14:37:36 -0400

M1 carbine, in 1971 when you transferred from base to base in the Air Force we had to qualify on the rifle. At this time there was a shortage of M-16 and we qualified on the M1 which I had never seen or fired before that time.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 15 at 2023 10:57 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 15 Jun 2023 22:57:12 -0400

In no order:
M3 grease gun
1911
M60A4 105 round
M2 dang thing is frigging heavy
Tank mounted MG's
LAW
Hand grenade

Response by SSgt Clare May made Jun 16 at 2023 4:22 PM

SSgt Clare May — Fri, 16 Jun 2023 16:22:01 -0400

I'm thinking a .38 Model 10 Smith N Wesson, the .50 M2 was a gimme. One place I was at, the M16 was a Colt without a chrome lined barrel, surplus from early Vietnam I recon had to be like 1965-66... not the later M16a1... the 81 tubes I shot...IDK... Clark in the PI and at Osan ROK were finned types... probably like the 1970's. The M60's were from the 50's... A Mark 19, 40 mm with a 12 round detachable mag was an early ass version late 1960's maybe.

The ones now don't even look the same.

The USAF Armory dudes locked up all the 1911's, so were the M79 and the M1/2 carbines. I don't recall any M1 Garand's on site in my day.

Response by CPT Gary Wilkins made Jun 22 at 2023 7:49 AM

CPT Gary Wilkins — Thu, 22 Jun 2023 07:49:58 -0400

Yes, the M1911A1 .45 was my standard service sidearm (worn with a shoulder holster). The Beretta (which I disliked) was fielded as its replacement the year I left service. I also used the .50 Cal M2 machine-gun on occasion, but not on a tank; my tank commander's cupola was equipped with a .50 Cal M85 machine gun--which was an M2 redesigned to feed from the right (and a truly great way to fudge up a weapon that was superb in its original left-side M2 feed configuration). I also qualified on the M16 (M4s didn't yet exist)--which was a ridiculous requirement because the length of the M16 was too much for easy maneuver inside a tank, so none of my armor crewmen ever carried them. The M60 machine gun, of course, we also fired at the range, and the Belgian made M240 MG (this was the coaxial weapon in the M60A1/A3 tank turret beside the 105mm M68 main gun cannon) during tank gunnery exercises--and both the M60 and M240 borrowed the design concepts from the German WWII MG-42 MG (which the Germans still use today in NATO caliber as the MG-3) But, each of those weapons was contemporary with my service period, as was the Vulcan 20mm Gatling gun ADA system, which I fortunately also had a chance to fire (a blast to use on old autos downrange)! But the OLDEST model weapon that I ever used/fired during my Army service was the WWII vintage .45 CAL M3 "Grease gun"--which were actually still available as personal weapons for tank crews owing to their convenient short length (though they were never actually issued)--we did, however, enjoy firing them at the range!

In my personal life I own and fire a WWII vintage Springfield .30-06 M1 Garand rifle and a .30 Cal (long) M1 Carbine (by Inland), an M1911 .45 Cal automatic manufactured in 1917 (i.e., BEFORE the M1911A1 model came out), and a 1915 P-08 Luger (9mm) made by Deutsche Waffen und Munitionsfabrik ("DWM") as well as a WWII Walther-made P-38 (9mm).

Response by LT Thomas Courtney made Jun 23 at 2023 12:44 AM

LT Thomas Courtney — Fri, 23 Jun 2023 00:44:28 -0400

1911 ACP 45 semiautomatic,
1903 Springfield
M-16
(Now the fun)… 5”38cal Navy , 5” 54 cal Navy.

Response by SPC Richard Rauenhorst made Jun 24 at 2023 8:48 AM

SPC Richard Rauenhorst — Sat, 24 Jun 2023 08:48:21 -0400

The colt 1911 was used by me once in Vietnam to qualify. I hit the South China Sea every time!
In basic training I hauled around the M-14 almost all the time and was used to qualify. The M-16 was introduced during the last week of basic training and while in Da Nang the M-16 was removed from locker and put into the Armory to never be seen again.

Response by SSG John Mtz made Jun 24 at 2023 11:55 PM

SSG John Mtz — Sat, 24 Jun 2023 23:55:58 -0400

A M3A1 Grease gun, I used and fired in Germany while stationed at Robert Lee Casern (Barracks), 1977-78 was a fun 45 ACP shooter.

Response by TSgt Robert Wayne made Jun 25 at 2023 10:37 PM

TSgt Robert Wayne — Sun, 25 Jun 2023 22:37:23 -0400

.38 revolver.

Response by SGT Timothy Brown made Jun 29 at 2023 2:55 AM

SGT Timothy Brown — Thu, 29 Jun 2023 02:55:03 -0400

Add the M3A1 Grease Gun when I was stationed in Germany from 86-89. What a fun little weapon! My 1911 was WW2 issue...actually had to aim about 6" to the right to hit the target COM. We just considered it a challenge...still qualified Expert Pistol

Response by SPC Arthur Ivanick made Jul 13 at 2023 6:14 AM

SPC Arthur Ivanick — Thu, 13 Jul 2023 06:14:25 -0400

While on a patrol with a Vietnamese Ranger unit I carried an M3 Greasegun.

Response by SGT John Gillmore made Jul 16 at 2023 9:55 AM

SGT John Gillmore — Sun, 16 Jul 2023 09:55:17 -0400

When I was a SP/4, I was an M60 Gunner, my assigned sidearm was a Remington-Rand 1911, made during WWII. I have little experience with the M2 Browning, since I served in an Airborne unit and several Light Infantry units later. The M2 wasn't part of the TO&E of such units I served in, might be different now.

Response by PO2 Dave Kozloski made Jul 20 at 2023 3:26 AM

PO2 Dave Kozloski — Thu, 20 Jul 2023 03:26:29 -0400

1903 Springfield

Response by MSgt Allen Chandler made Aug 10 at 2023 4:20 PM

MSgt Allen Chandler — Thu, 10 Aug 2023 16:20:05 -0400

B-52

Response by SPC James McCullough made Aug 14 at 2023 3:13 AM

SPC James McCullough — Mon, 14 Aug 2023 03:13:35 -0400

A rock and a stick, seriously. However I am not certain which one of those two can claim the title of oldest over the other.

Response by SPC James McCullough made Aug 14 at 2023 3:30 AM

SPC James McCullough — Mon, 14 Aug 2023 03:30:30 -0400

To clarify. The oldest model “Firearm” I ever used while in service was the “M3” SMG. Cheaply made, simple, easy to work on. Only moderately temperamental in harsh conditions and dirty environments. No accuracy to speak of beyond 40 meters as that was not what it was designed for. For what it was designed for, it did that very well. And for a $15.00 Sub-Machine Gun who could really complain. The US military tried multiple times to oust the “Greaser” but the old girl hung in there until the Gulf War where it served as an Armored crews back up dismounted SMG. Wish I had one in my collection.

Response by CPL Mike Kiernan made Sep 6 at 2023 9:28 PM

CPL Mike Kiernan — Wed, 06 Sep 2023 21:28:20 -0400

Oldest was a Remington Model 1897 12-gauge w/ the exposed hammer. Not as heavy as was thought, even with a full load of either OO Buck or # 4, but when it roared there was nothing else like it. Only gripe was the lack of a trigger disconnect, that did make 'fan fire' possible, but required you to be braced when you held the trigger down, and you fan-fired the '97 by simply racking the pump.

Response by SFC Kevin Childers made Sep 20 at 2023 10:26 AM

SFC Kevin Childers — Wed, 20 Sep 2023 10:26:59 -0400

M2 mortar, manufacture date 1942
M3 Submachine gun aka grease gun
Both older than the GM Frigidar M16 I used or the pre-A1versions we fired at BNOC in 1990 at Ft. Huachuca. No idea where those came from.

Response by SSG Ralph Watkins made Sep 21 at 2023 5:25 PM

SSG Ralph Watkins — Thu, 21 Sep 2023 17:25:20 -0400

My Guard unit went to Iraq with Ma-Deuces that saw action at the Hurtgen Forest & the Battle of the Bulge. Our one cracked a barrel extension during an engagement. It was made in 1939. The Army would not give us the part we needed but the Marines took good care of us. Handed us a recently manufactured part which fit perfectly. When we were working with the Marine Raiders for a bit in 2004, I was surprised to see them still carrying the M-72 LAW & the M-79 grenade launcher. The odd weapon that I got issued at my first duty assignment was a XM-16E1. It was an M-16A1 prototype. The last original M-16 I saw still in service was in 1986. Thinner, non-chromed barrel & no forward assist.

Response by SP5 Gerald Santomassimo made Sep 24 at 2023 8:12 PM

SP5 Gerald Santomassimo — Sun, 24 Sep 2023 20:12:17 -0400

1911 .45 pistol, M2 .50 caliber machine gun and the M3 grease gun.

Response by LCpl Eric Mach made Oct 14 at 2023 1:47 PM

LCpl Eric Mach — Sat, 14 Oct 2023 13:47:38 -0400

1911A1 I carried one as a squad leader in Vietnam

Response by MSG Ronald Williams made Oct 21 at 2023 1:04 PM

MSG Ronald Williams — Sat, 21 Oct 2023 13:04:28 -0400

in army reserve trained on water cooled machine gun and M1 rifle which was also used in basic trainig, later the carbine

Response by SPC Brent Mcdonald made Oct 23 at 2023 7:56 PM

SPC Brent Mcdonald — Mon, 23 Oct 2023 19:56:05 -0400

The first weapons I qualified with was the Colt 1911, M3 submachine gun, affectionately known as The Grease Gun, and the 50 cal M2. These were standard issue on the M60 tank.

Response by LCpl Michael Cappello made Nov 5 at 2023 6:50 PM

LCpl Michael Cappello — Sun, 05 Nov 2023 18:50:30 -0500

Colt 1911-A1 and an AR-15

Response by SSG Michael Schneider made Nov 24 at 2023 7:39 AM

SSG Michael Schneider — Fri, 24 Nov 2023 07:39:43 -0500

When I enlisted (1965) the 1911 and the Ma Deuce were still in the inventory Army wide. The Colt .45 may be gone now but, Ma Deuce is still going strong. Not as old was the M-3 'Grease Gun' that was still in service with every Armored unit.

Response by LTC Myron Opfermann made Nov 25 at 2023 8:35 PM

LTC Myron Opfermann — Sat, 25 Nov 2023 20:35:17 -0500

As an infantryman who enlisted in 1965 I carried the Colt M1911 and the M14 rifle. Later I trained with the National Guard and that was like visiting a WW2 museum. M2 and M1919 machine guns, BARs, M1 rifles, M1 carbines, etc. When I got to my first Reserve unit these were the same weapons in my arms room. In those days the Reserves and NG were at the tail end of weapons and equipment priorities.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 26 at 2023 10:20 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 26 Nov 2023 22:20:51 -0500

I went to basic in 1991 so my weapon for rifle qualification was an M16A1 with fully automatic capability. Of course I’ve fired the M2 as a gunner.

Response by WO1 Mike Dwyer made Nov 26 at 2023 11:58 PM

WO1 Mike Dwyer — Sun, 26 Nov 2023 23:58:39 -0500

We only used blanks, but I was on the Army ROTC Drill Team for 2 years in college. We did precision drills with 1903 Springfield rifles with 14 inch bayonets. I still have a scar on my right elbow from when the guy behind me slammed his bayonets edge into my elbow during the 1970 Mardi Gras parade in New Orleans.

Response by MAJ Hugh Blanchard made Nov 27 at 2023 7:00 PM

MAJ Hugh Blanchard — Mon, 27 Nov 2023 19:00:57 -0500

Trained on the M14 rifle (beautiful weapon!), XM16 (worn-out piece of crap), used the .45 caliber M1911, and fired the .50 Cal M2 machine gun, and the M79 grenade launcher, a wonderful creature, especially loaded with "shotgun" rounds.

Response by CW2 Donald Loughrey made Dec 4 at 2023 4:17 PM

CW2 Donald Loughrey — Mon, 04 Dec 2023 16:17:45 -0500

1911 Colt ACP, M2 50cal MG and I got to fire a M3 Grease Gun. Those are the US weapons. While in 10th SFG(A) I got to fire a Sten Gun, Finnish Suomi MG and a few other foreign weapons. The 90mm REcoiless Rifle was adopted in 1959 but we used it when I was in the Infantry in the 70s.

Response by Sgt David Branham made Dec 5 at 2023 1:27 AM

Sgt David Branham — Tue, 05 Dec 2023 01:27:02 -0500

1911 45 caliber pistol
AND
.50 caliberM2 maxhije gun
.39 caliber automatic rifle

Response by CPL Ray Kahler made Dec 6 at 2023 2:24 PM

CPL Ray Kahler — Wed, 06 Dec 2023 14:24:07 -0500

1911 & Ma Deuce

Response by PO1 Todd McMillin made Feb 18 at 2024 10:34 PM

PO1 Todd McMillin — Sun, 18 Feb 2024 22:34:37 -0500

Classic Shotgun Remington 800 that was probably issued around Korean War when I was in the Navy on sea duty as physical security in 1993. They had just issued Browning 9mm as our sidearms.