14 tons, armored plating, blast-resistant underbodies, all-terrain suspension, designed to operate in rural, mountain and urban terrains. More than 12,000 deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan. Credit: Illustrations: Matt Morris
First debuted during the Vietnam War and has been the military’s primary service rifle ever since, though the U.S. Army began phasing them out in 2010 in favor of the M4 Carbine. Designed to fire three-round bursts, capable of hitting precise targets at 550 meters. Along with the Russian-made AK-47, it is the most common assault rifle in the world. Rate of fire (semiautomatic): 45-60 rounds per minute. Weight: 6.5 pounds. Maximum effective range: 600 meters Credit: Illustrations: Matt Morris
Used by the U.S. Army in the Vietnam War, was replaced but came back into favor during wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. Range: 900 yards.Weight: 11.6 pounds. Requested by departments, but none were delivered Credit: Illustrations: Matt Morris
Primary armored troop transport vehicle in Iraq and Afghanistan. Seats: Two to four people. Max Speed: around 55 mph. Weight: Between 7,000 and 10,000 pounds Credit: Illustrations: Matt Morris
A semiautomatic rifle that was the primary infantry weapon in the Vietnam War but was eventually replaced by the lighter M-16. However, variants have been used in Iraq and Afghanistan, primarily as sniper rifles. Also used by ceremonial guards. Magazine capacity: 20 rounds. Weight: 9 pounds. Credit: Illustrations: Matt Morris
Credit: Illustrations: Matt Morris

Got something to say?

Send a letter to the editor and we'll publish your feedback in print!