I read an article by Dick Culver at www. snipercountry in regards to the history of the .223 round and the M16.  Mr. Culver gave a fair and honest preface to his article, stating in so many words, the following piece was from HIS observations and HIS experiences in Viet Nam with the aforementioned round and weapon.  I found this to be an interesting read.  After having read the two page article---I understand the POLITICS behind some of the decisions for adopting the .223, BUT I found it appalling that the government could have set aside the .308 (ballistically speaking) for the .223, which is basically a varmint cartridge.  
Please understand that I have no bias against the .223.  In fact I own a Bushmaster.  If you have a few minutes you may find this a good read.  I am looking forward to comments.  Always eager to learn.  Thanks.

link?

I am not computer literate.  Hope this helps.
www.snipercountry.com
Enter (in-country).
Click on Articles & Commentary.
Click on "The Saga of the M16 in Viet Nam" (in two parts) - Dick Culver's Shooting Page.

Here ya go Loam:  www.jouster.com/articles30m1/index.html

the guns arent like that anymore.

so whats the point?

1. This is old news. I've seen that article posted here at least five times.

2. The politics, at least within the Army (who spec'd and selected weapons for EVERY branch of service in those days), was strongly AGAINST the adaptation of the .223/5.56.

3.   ?

Here is my take on Small Calibers.
(1.) the .223 is NOT the most efficient or accurate rifle cartridge. The 22 PPC is superior in both of those regards. The greater case capacity of the 22 PPC allows for a higher muzzle velocity than can be attained with the .223 cartrdige. The Shorter but much FATTER 22 PPC cartridge means a shorter bolt and receiver which means a lighter firearm.

(2.) 22 caliber is insufficient for sniping purposes in terms of long range ballistics and penetration. However a caliber that is midway between the .308 and 223, such as the 260 or 6.5-284 would probably be a better compromise in fullfilling a dual purpose role both as a sniping round and a combat round. And it would address certain inadequacies that the .223 possesses at the same time being lighter than a .308 cartridge.

Thank you very much:
brouhaha
Bostonterrier 97
Troy
I sincerely appreciate your time and help with my inquiry!  I am a "newbie" to this forum and am looking forward to possibly participating in the future.  Thanks!