The AUG (Armee-Universal-Gewehr (-Army Universal Rifle) is a select-fire in 5.56x54mm NATO calibre and is a short-stroke piston operated action with a rotating bolt - in 'Bullpup' configuration. - They can be converted to use a left-handed bolt. The armys magazines are available in 30 round and 42 round capacity.
Note: The AK or "Kalash" system is a long-stroke piston system with a larger diameter bolt.
The NZ and Australian versions use a 1:7 twist rate for use with the SS109 NATO round and fire from a closed bolt. There have been various complaints of poor accuracy - particularly when used in Afghanistan. The NZDF have been said to have as many as 13,000 AUG rifles - but are currently reported to be seeking interested quotes for supply of 8,800 replacement battle rifles.
The NZ Ministry of Defence is quoted as having said " the AUGs are not powerful enough to identify accurately adversaries and ineffective at ranges greater than 200 metres." - The Steyrs have an inbuilt telescopic-sight of 1.5 multiplication.
It is unlikely that our Government will allow the NZDF to sell their old AUGs either to another nation or at home to local shooters.
The Irish military who have some 6,000 AUG rifles have similar complaints about their guns - but are seeking to modify their rifles by fitting improved optical sights with greater magnification and better night vision capabilities. - Their existing 'Tritium' sights will have dimmed to a quarter of their original brightness.
There are 'civilian' versions of the Steyr AUG on sale currently in NZ. However way back in the 1990s I was told by the head of the Police Firearms Office that I would never be permitted to sell such a rifle in NZ as a Steyr Factory Agent while they were the Defence Force issue arm.
- What will they select as replacements? - I bet it won't be AK47s.- My guess would be an AR15 platform - as being more politically correct.
Marty K
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