if only there was some way to increase rifles DPS output substantially. it would have to concentrate DPS on a single model to make the lower target size of unvetted units matter less, and maybe fire on the move to keep with the USF theme? maybe even allow squads to carry 2 of them? i doubt relic would ever go for such a crazy strong bonus like allowing any squad in the faction, including free ones get 2 AI weapons that fire on the move, increase DPS at all ranges and concentrate DPS on models but id be willing to start a petition if i knew people would sign it.
It would be a nice idea, if USF lategame AI didn't keep getting nerfed when it is working right. I just watched a match with VonIvan and Sib, and they just struggled against lategame OKW. BAR rifles with vet 3 are fine in lategame, but as soon as you start losing them, it is GG if you don't have something doctrinal to save your ass, because USF stock lategame anti-infantry is either bad or very fragile.
As is, you basically go for calliopes or suffer. I would love a game where I didn't need to rely on rifles. I have advocated for other changes to US units to help them in this area. But if nothing else is done, then rifles do need something to help with the lategame bleed.
The same issue was occuring to grenadiers despite Wehr having the tools needed to deal with infantry lategame, so they received a similar buff to help them scale and not bleed out the user. Or do you think that was unnecessary as well?