Comments by "geodkyt" (@geodkyt) on "Ask Ian: What Rifles Were the M2-M13?" video.

@capt.raptor4650 And if they had followed the actual nomenclature rules, the M1, M1A1 (an M1 with a folding stock), M2, and M3 would have been the M1, M1A1, M1A2, and M1A3, respectively. Because the M2 and M3 are not sufficiently distinct to justify their own independent model number rather than an "A" suffix. I mean, there is literally no difference between an M2 and an M1 that has had a few parts added to it (different stock, which is really just relieved to allow the added trigger group bits to move), and the M3 is really just an M2 with the rear sight foundation milled flat and a scope mount for the giant IR searchlight and scope.
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@alun7006 Your supposition with the Hornet and Super Hornet are correct. Similar to the latest versions of the Huey and Cobra helicopters, the LHA-6 AMERICA class amphibs, and a slew of other things, the Navy slid the Super Bugs under the nose of the tent by claiming they were a mere "mod repeat/upgrade" rather than a new design. Specifically because Congress had indicated they weren't willing to fund a new design, but were willing to fund an "upgrade of an existing model". It didn't matter that the cost was the same, it was "merely an upgrade, minimal Non-recurring Engineering and little.chance of schedule or cost risk".
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