Ahh so I just checked the log and they removed the minimum range for rifle and fusilier AT nades in the last patch. My mistake. That said, there is still an animation bug that allows it to cancel just like the faust, but I don't know where you get smoke issue from because a variety of things can cause it.
My main objection is how you feel this is an major problem for axis when they have the most tank smoke AND their tanks all have speed boosts. I feel like you have yet to address that...
Conscripts aren't meant to fight long range battles so it isn't a role change
Thats not the point though. It still nerfs their long range dps whereas, Stgs is a buff to Volks at all ranges. Hence why that upgrade is among the dumbest things in the game, it's a total no brainier