MARSOC to replace M2

[Peter1469]

MARSOC to replace M2

They want a lighter machine gun. Although I don't see why they would keep them mounted to vehicles.

Special operations Marines are aiming to replace their long-serving and iconic M2 machine gun. After more than 80 years with the M2 "Ma Deuce" weapon, Marine Corps Forces Special Operations Command, otherwise known as MARSOC, is seeking to lighten its machine gun load.

First produced in 1933, the M2 quickly earned a reputation for reliability and power and is the longest-serving weapon in the U.S. military arsenal. Its .50-caliber round is one of the largest in existence, allowing the user to hit targets at more than 8,000 yards. With a firing rate reaching nearly 600 rounds per minute, the M2 is formidable in a firefight.


“Witnessing the downrange effects of the .50-caliber bullet is an eye-opening experience,” wrote Gordon Rottman, author of Browning .50-Caliber Machine Guns. “There are few who can say they were wounded by a .50-cal. Those hit seldom say much more.”


But all the power of the "Ma Deuce" comes with a price. Weighing in at more than 80 pounds, the M2 and its large-caliber ammunition are a heavy cargo — hence, the search for a lighter substitute.

[DGUtley]

If it is not broke, don’t fix it.

[Retirednsmilin308]

Respectfully, but wasn't it first produced during WW1 in 1916 or 1918?

I think they have their facts off just a bit.

The beauty of the 50BMG is the fact is is a scaled up 30/06.

It has been doing its job for over 100 years. Don't replace just to replace like they did with the 1911.
(a totally 'nuther issue)

Replace because you have something genuinely better.

...I just realized the foolishness of what I just posted.
This is a government contractual arrangement with all the usual graft and greed associated with such.

SIDE NOTE BUT ON TOPIC:
Col. Burton Miller was responsible for the Air Force first getting and using the AR platform.
When he retired, he went straight to a position as Vice President of Armalite Corp.
This fact was first broadcast in the first edition to a Guns & Ammo book called GUNS OF THE GUNFIGHTERS.
All subsequent issues had this info edited out.

I have a standing offer of $100 to anyone who can prove they have that copy and send it to me.
The info is at the very first page or so when they talk about the contributing authors.

Its a really good book and they say Sgt. York was the best gunfighter of all time, hands down.

[Cletus]

If it is not broke, don’t fix it.

I agree completely with that. The fact that a weapon system is old doesn't mean it is ineffective.

The M2 is a great tool to have on your side. Personnel, aircraft, vehicles, hardened targets... it can be used effectively against all of them. When dismounted, it is indeed cumbersome. I have actually used an M2 in a dismounted night attack. Moving it over rough terrain on foot is no picnic. 84 pounds for the gun, 44 pounds for the tripod, plus the weight and bulk of the ammo makes it a bear to hump. Put it on a vehicle or use it in a fixed defensive position though, and it can be a real game changer in your favor.

If used in the role for which it is intended, it can't be beat. there is just nothing better.

[Private Pickle]

They shouldn't go less than .50 BMG.

[waltky]

Dey should switch to a .45...

... it's lighter an' even Granny...

... can keep up with it.