he says 78lb .....Is he a liar or can't he read....

here is the HK M29 faq....
http://www.hecklerkoch-usa.com/pages/military/m29_faq.html#Anchor-How-43793

What is the M29 (OICW) system weight objective?
1) During the ATD phase of the program it was 18 pounds. This weight included a load of (20) 5.56mm KE and (6) 20mm HE rounds.

2) During the 54 month PDRR phase, the goal is to achieve a 15-pound weapon system that includes approximately 3 pounds of ammunition, including (30) 5.56mm and (8) 20mm HE rounds.

3) The threshold requirement is 14 pounds with an objective requirement of 10 pounds. The final design at the completion of PDRR will be between 10 and 14 pounds.

How do you plan to decrease the system weight?
1) Technical advances in electronics miniaturization, lighter weight composite materials and plastic vs. glass optics are identified as weight savers.

2) The Proof of Principle weapon systems used a standard government battery. Commercial advancements in battery technology and power management will also be leveraged.

3) System design trades will be considered against the various operational requirements for the User to evaluate.

How does the M29 (OICW) system weight compare to the current soldier’s weapons?
1) M29 (OICW)s weight fielding goal of 14 pounds is 10 to 30% less weight than the current M16/M4/M203 systems. When comparable features such as Thermal Weapon Sight, Optic Sight, Rails, Aiming Light, Leaf Sight and Laser are added, the standard infantry soldier carries 15 to 19 pounds. This weight includes only 1 (30 round) magazine of the 5.56mm and 1 round of 40mm HE ammo.

2) M29 (OICW)’s 20mm HE round weighs only 1/4 pound compared to the M203’s 40mm round weight of 1/2 pound – a 50% comparison weight savings with substantially more effectiveness.

3) 18 rounds of 40mm ammunition in a soldier’s vest weigh 9 pounds. If a soldier was carrying 18 rounds of 20mm the weight is 4 1/2 pounds.