[img]http://www.socommfg.com/DSC00683.JPG[/img]
This RPD upper looks like a nice accessory
more pics here: http://www.socommfg.com/requested%20pictures.htm
http://subguns.biggerhammer.net/mgmsg.cgi?read=281190
SOCOM M11/RPD Prototype Test
Posted By: Captain Monty Mendenhall
Date: 5/21/03 11:28
We finally had a day of good wx. Jim Weaver and I took the latest prototype of SOCOM's M11/RPD to the range. Ernie seems to have the bugs worked out. In order to prevent overheating the barrel, we only used one 50-round belt and reloaded it after each test. Even with this delay, the barrel became so hot that grease ran out of the oil-soaked fore end and smoked. In 300 rounds, fired in both semi and full, there was not a single failure to feed or eject.
SOCOM has not received final approval from the BATFE yet. The Tech branch passed it, saying that it was the most innovative thing that they had seen in some time, and sent it on to the Legal branch for a final determination. If they rule on the facts, it should pass the legal test as well. There is no way to attach an operating spring to the new upper receiver (the non-registered part) so it cannot fire like a sputter-gun. The stock and operating spring are attached to the M11's registered receiver in much the same way as is the TASK Slow Fire M11's stock and operating spring. The SOCOM M11/RPD upper receiver, though longer and heavier, is no more capable of firing withouth having the registered lower receiver installed than is an M11 upper receiver. To my knowldge, the BATFE has never expressed concern about the spare M11 upper receivers that are commonly available.
Some have expressed concern that the BATFE may not approve the new SOCOM product because of the caliber change and the change in the feeding method from bottom-feed to side-feed. By precedent, neither change is a problem. Probably the best example of a precedent is is the AR15/M16, calibers from .22LR to .50BMG (single shot) and .50AE semi and full, plus at least two belt fed versions (Ceiner and ARES Shrike).
I forgot to bring the cyclic rate computer to the range but I would guess that the cyclic rate is 700-800 rpm. I could fire double-taps with great regularity. The gas port was set at "2." Next time out, we will reset it to "1" AND see if the functioning is reliable and see if the cyclic reduction is significant.