M-249 Light Machine Gun

The M-249 was selected as the US Army's light machine gun in the mid 1980's. It is a version of FN's Minimi light machine gun currently in use by many other NATO nations. It is a lightweight, gas-operated weapon that can be either belt-fed or magazine fed. It is considered a reliable weapon and is designed for quick change of parts such as the barrel to minimize down time in a firefight (a very valid concern!). The SP (Special Purpose) varient was chosen for special operations and airborne groups to it's compact size and suitability for airbourne operations. The barrel is shortened, the buttstock is collapsable, and the carrying handle is removed, both shortening and lightening the weapon.

The M-249 is a light machine gun, a concept in which the gunner can carry more of a lighter round of ammo. It was also designed to compliment the M-16 by being able to use the same magazines as the M-16, although this causes the SAW to jam somewhat regularly. Using the 200 round ammunition box, the M-249 has a firing rate of 1,000 rounds a minute. Using belt-fed ammunition will slow the rate down to 750 rds/Min due to the weight of the belt and the gun's need to pull it into the weapon.

Variants include: M-249 Basic M-249 for light infantry purposes. M-249 SPW (Para) M-249 for paratroop ops. Fixed buttstock replaced with a collapsable unit.

Data Data is for M-249 SPW (Para) Round 5.56 x 45mm NATO Weight (empty) 5.72Kg 12.60 Lb. Length 30.50" collapsed 35.75" extended Type of Fire Full Automatic Firing Rate 750-1,000 Rds/mn Maximum Firing Range 3725m 12,221 ft Muzzle Velocity 915M/sec 3,000ft/sec Magazine Capacity magazine or belt fed