My experience of the M 16 and AR 15 has been pretty good. The IA
stoppage that we mostly see are usually due to firing of Blank
cartridges. Next time, if you have the chance, take notes as to how
many IAs you get when you are on exercise firing blanks, and when
you are at a Live Firing exercise. This applies to burst firing on
auto mode... with the blanks you are definitely going to get jammed
after one magazine. With rounds, I think less than 1%
stoppage.
I have been thru' all sorts of environments with the M16 and it has
not failed me. Firing after emerging from a swamp and in cold
temperatures etc etc.
Main thing, as with all rifles, is regular cleaning , even in the
field. A simple wipe -off of the bolt carrier and dusting of the
magazine top is important.
Close the chamber door also ... the one on the right side exposing
the bolt carrier... this would prevent most stoppages in the
field.
Quality of the ammo is one of the major factors in IA
stoppages.
