[joma89]

Full auto has its uses. When ammunition is readily available, it is used to make the enemy seek cover and not fire back....suppression if you will.

[rellimpank]

—in military usage—I certainly agree—

[wbarmy]

I really did like when they adapted the M-16 to do three round burst fire. It really helped in combat situations to keep people from letting their adrenaline takeover in some situations.

[\/\/ayne]

...it is used to make the enemy seek cover and not fire back...

Yes, in 1991 Basic at Ft Sill we were taught to use automatic fire only for that purpose, such as in an ambush. During that training exercise, I was in charge of a squad that contained one Bozo.

We did great at being ambushed - although the squad panicked and froze I directed them to pour automatic fire into the hill we were being ambushed from. I had myself and others cover while the squad went back to the rally point, then they covered the rest of us going back.

Private Bozo did ok since he only had to run back to the rally point, then copy the others and pour withering fire into the hill. Next, I set up a perfect ambush for the next group with an excellent cross-fire on the kill zone.

Unfortunately Private Bozo got impatient and fired early against orders, causing the other group to surround and kill us.

I really hope that guy didn't last long after Basic. Probably not.

[packagingguy]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ilhwqnj5jG4

From “Saving Private Ryan”. American soldiers facing full automatic fire from German MG-42’s.

Yes full auto is effective.

It killed our Americans.

[GingisK]

The M14 was a real “climber”. I never got more than one bullet on target with full auto.