Well, I have to say "WHAT A MEDIA BEAT-UP!" Ok,sure there are likely to be some failures with a limited number of weapons in a theatre of war, but to read Ch Seven's original report where they claim "Up to 70,000" Austeyrs are defective is just a crock. Don't forget that the Austeyr is approaching 20 years old (F88), and the Browing Hi-Powers could be 60 years old, but these weapons are in tip-top condition when sent O/S. Meticulous cleaning and maintenance is essential for any weapon in a dusty/sandy environment, as is thorough and regular IA training for the Rifleman.
Should some element of this be overlooked, you don't go blaming the weapon system.
