AK-47

The American M-4 assault riffle is one of the most technologically advanced weapons on the planet.
At less than seven pounds, when fully loaded - the gas operated, air cooled, multi-position telescoping stock weapon is America's answer in most hostile situations.
But the weapon often jams and fails to function when stressed.
The weapon is expensive and fails under less than perfect condition.

The older AK-47 has fewer moving parts and fewer technological advances.
But this weapon still works when wet or dirty.
This weapon works because it has a bit more play and a larger margin for error.

So why do so many government programs fail to produce the desired results?
Because like American made weapons - American programs are overly designed to work only under optimal conditions with little or no account taken for any variation.