answersLogoWhite

0

They didn't. That was something some US troops did in Vietnam, hoping to make sure the cartridges were not in a bind inside the magazine. Among many problems the M-16 rifle had was a tendency to jam, for many reasons, one of which was poor feeding of cartridges from the magazine.

The old M-1 was much more reliable.

Some other weapons in the WWII light infantry arsenal had magazine feeding problems, particularly the Thompson. Most solved this by loading only eighteen rounds in the twenty round box magazines, to avoid over-compressing the magazine spring.

Also, sometimes they did it when they want to find out if it's an empty clip or not. Nothing is worse than inserting an empty clip into a rifle in a middle of a warzone. I bet you watched it from "Saving Private Ryan".

User Avatar

Wiki User

15y ago

What else can I help you with?

Related Questions

What are the benefits of a kevlar helmet to soldiers?

Kevlar helmets provide ballistic protection against bullets and shrapnel, reducing the risk of head injuries in combat situations. They are lightweight and comfortable to wear for long periods, which can help improve the overall performance and endurance of soldiers in the field. Additionally, kevlar helmets can be equipped with accessories like night vision goggles and communication systems, enhancing soldiers' situational awareness and communication capabilities.


Why do people need helmets?

It shows what side a soldier is on from the design and even helmets today can deflect some kinds of bullets.


Do soldiers still write on their helmets?

no


What are UNO soldiers called?

blue helmets


Why did US soldiers have spades on their helmets during WW2?

the shapes on the sides of helmets were used to identify a soldiers regiment the spade was (506th parachute infantry regiment)


Were soldiers' helmets bullet proof in World War 2?

No


Why did soldiers wear leather helmets inside tanks?

Soldiers wore leather helmets inside tanks for protection against head injuries caused by bumps and jolts during movement. The helmets helped cushion the impact and reduce the risk of injury.


When did British soldiers begin to wear helmets in World War I?

They wore helmets long before world war 1.


Why don't the leaders of squads using gas masks wear helmets?

Not all gas masks are compatible with helmets, so some soldiers forgo helmets to wear their masks.


Are American football players poofs coz of the helmets?

the helmets protect them a lot


What was a material used for German helmets in World War 1?

In world war one, helmets where made of steel, to help protect your head from any bullets or other weapons used (:


What were soldiers helmets made out of in World War 1?

Leather, after 1916; steel.