Diemaco C8 SFW

Throughout much of the 70s, 80s and 90s, the main assault rifle of the SBS was the M16. A modern day SBS trooper is more likely to use the Canadian Diemaco C8 SFW carbine.

This is a 5.56mm weapon which can be fired full-auto or single-shot. For additional firepower, the C8 can be fitted with an under-slung 40mm grenade launcher. The C8 is essentially a version of the Colt M4a1 carbine as used by U.S. special forces but with a slightly longer and heavier barrel.

The first reported use of the C8 in anger was by UKSF forces in Sierra Leone in 2000, when a combined SAS/SBS/Para task force rescued kidnapped British soldiers. The SBS have been spotted toting C8s whilst on operations in Afghanistan, including the uprising at Qala-i-Janghi in 2001. (photos here)

Diemaco C8 SFW
british military designation	L119A1
weight	3.6 kg
length	Retractable stock:   80 cm (31.5 in.) (retracted)   88 cm (34.6 in.) (extended)
barrel length	41 cm (16.1 in.)
rate of fire	750-950 round/min
caliber	5.56 X 45 mm NATO
magazine capacity	30
muzzle velocity	895 m/s (2940 ft/s)
effective range	500 m (219 yd)

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