M240B
USA1977 - Present
General-purpose machine gun providing heavy suppressive fire
Primary Specifications
Caliber
7.62x51 mm
Full-power NATO caliber
Weight (Empty)
12.5 kg
Muzzle Velocity
853 m/s
Standard 7.62 NATO velocity
Rate of Fire
750 rpm
Adjustable gas regulator
Effective Range
1800 m
Maximum effective range on tripod
Magazine
100-rd Belt
Belt-fed linked ammunition
Quick Summary
What it is?
The standard US general-purpose machine gun based on the Belgian FN MAG design
Who uses it?
US Army, USMC, Navy, All combat branches
Role
General-purpose machine gun, Vehicle mount, Sustained fire
What's different?
Heavier 7.62mm caliber provides greater range and penetration than SAW
Why it matters?
Primary suppression weapon for US platoons and vehicles
Real-World Impact
1
Vehicle Mounted
Standard coaxial and pintle mount on Humvees, Strykers, and MRAPs
2
Helicopter Door Gun
Mounted on Black Hawks and Chinooks for aerial fire support
3
Fixed Position
Emplaced at forward operating bases for perimeter defense
4
Dismounted Patrols
Carried by weapons squad for heavy firepower
Additional Features
Ambidextrous Controls
No
Operating System
Gas-operated, open bolt
FAQs
1. What's the difference between M240B and M240L?
M240L is 5.5 lbs lighter using titanium components2. Why is it preferred over the M60?
3. What is the cyclic rate?
4. Can infantry carry it?
5. What optics are used?
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