What Rifle Does the Israeli Army Use?
The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) is one of the most advanced and respected militaries in the world, and its arsenal of rifles is no exception. The IDF has a long history of using a variety of rifles, from the iconic Galil to the more modern Tavor. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the rifles used by the Israeli army and explore their features, advantages, and disadvantages.
Galil Rifle
The Galil rifle is one of the most iconic and well-known rifles used by the Israeli army. Developed in the 1960s, the Galil is a 5.56x45mm NATO caliber rifle that was designed to be a more reliable and accurate alternative to the AK-47. The Galil was widely used by the IDF during the Yom Kippur War and was also exported to several countries around the world.
Features:
- Gas-operated, rotating bolt action
- 5.56x45mm NATO caliber
- 20-inch barrel
- Collapsible stock
- Weight: 8.5 pounds
Advantages:
- High accuracy
- Reliable in harsh environments
- Easy to maintain
Disadvantages:
- Heavy and bulky
- Limited range
Tavor Rifle
The Tavor rifle is the standard-issue rifle of the Israeli army and has been in service since the late 1990s. The Tavor is a 5.56x45mm NATO caliber rifle that was designed to be a more modern and reliable alternative to the Galil. The Tavor has a number of features that make it well-suited for use in a variety of environments, including urban warfare and desert combat.
Features:
- Bullpup design
- 5.56x45mm NATO caliber
- 16.5-inch barrel
- Adjustable stock
- Weight: 7.9 pounds
Advantages:
- Compact and lightweight
- High accuracy
- Reliable in harsh environments
- Easy to maintain
Disadvantages:
- Bullpup design can be awkward for some users
- Limited range
Other Rifles Used by the Israeli Army
In addition to the Galil and Tavor, the Israeli army also uses a number of other rifles, including the M4A1, the M16A2, and the Galil ACE. The M4A1 and M16A2 are 5.56x45mm NATO caliber rifles that were developed by the United States and are used by the IDF for specific purposes, such as urban warfare and counter-terrorism.
Table: Israeli Army Rifles
Rifle | Caliber | Barrel Length | Weight | Description |
---|---|---|---|---|
Galil | 5.56x45mm NATO | 20 inches | 8.5 pounds | Gas-operated, rotating bolt action |
Tavor | 5.56x45mm NATO | 16.5 inches | 7.9 pounds | Bullpup design, adjustable stock |
M4A1 | 5.56x45mm NATO | 14.5 inches | 6.5 pounds | Gas-operated, direct impingement |
M16A2 | 5.56x45mm NATO | 20 inches | 8.5 pounds | Gas-operated, direct impingement |
Galil ACE | 5.56x45mm NATO | 16 inches | 7.3 pounds | Gas-operated, rotating bolt action |
Conclusion
The Israeli army uses a variety of rifles, each with its own unique features and advantages. The Galil and Tavor are the most widely used rifles in the IDF, and are known for their reliability and accuracy. The M4A1, M16A2, and Galil ACE are also used by the IDF for specific purposes, such as urban warfare and counter-terrorism. Ultimately, the choice of rifle depends on the specific needs of the unit and the environment in which it will be used.
Recommendations
- Galil: A good choice for those who want a reliable and accurate rifle with a long history of use.
- Tavor: A good choice for those who want a compact and lightweight rifle with a modern design.
- M4A1: A good choice for those who want a gas-operated rifle with a short barrel and a direct impingement system.
- M16A2: A good choice for those who want a gas-operated rifle with a longer barrel and a direct impingement system.
- Galil ACE: A good choice for those who want a gas-operated rifle with a shorter barrel and a rotating bolt action.
Conclusion
The Israeli army’s rifle selection is diverse and well-suited for a variety of environments and purposes. Whether you’re looking for a reliable and accurate rifle with a long history of use or a modern and compact rifle with a bullpup design, the Israeli army has a rifle that’s right for you.