[sc_rufctr]

Just some thoughts. I carried one for years...

1. They're heavy, significantly heavier than an M16 but not necessarily a bad thing because the weight helps with handling and felt recoil.
When marching it was best to keep the rifle close to your body. I usually cradled it across my chest with the magazine removed on long marches.
2. Recoil, yes plenty but I'm not big guy and I had no issues leaning in and firing the rifle.
With practice you can use its weight to your advantage and stay on target after each round has gone down range.
3. They are a proper rifle. Old School loveliness. They ooze quality and they're made of steel.
The breach block and slider and precision machined and they're matched to each other. (The butt and forward stock were wooden)
4. Stoppages are easily cleared and the gas system is adjustable. A well maintained rifle will never jam even when caked in dirt.
But always clean them when you get a chance.

Some time later I was posted to an Infantry battalion.
When I got there I was issue an M16 & a Browning high power, those were the standard weapons for a Medic.
Two completely different animals... With the SLR you got a proper "bang" when you pulled the trigger.
The M16 felt like a pea shooter in comparison.