M14 Picture of the Day

[Sentryduty]

I think that fellow in the photo must be carrying it as a status symbol, in the warzone that is Syria I would imagine any choice of small arms are available. A SVD or PSL for example is likely more available, a more regionally common cartridge, and would offer similar capability with much reduced carry weight, but then he would look like any other goon out on the battlefield and not Tier 1 Operator.