The M240 Machine Gun Is Much Admired To This Day

M240 Machine Gun officially the 7.62 mm Machine Gun, the M240 Machine Gun is the US military designation for the FN MAG, a family of gas-operated, belt-fed medium machine guns chambered for the 7.62×51mm NATO cartridge. Produced by the American division of the Belgian company Fabrique Nationale d'Herstal. The M240 Machine Gun has been used by the United States Armed Forces since the late 1970s. The M240 Machine Gun was widely used by infantry, most often in rifle companies, as well as on land vehicles, boats, and aircraft. Although heavier than similar weapons, the M240 Machine Gun is highly regarded for its reliability and its standardization among NATO members is a major advantage.

All variants are belt powered and capable of firing most types of 7.62 NATO ammunition. The M240 variant can be converted to use a non-disintegrating belt. There are significant differences in weight and some features between some versions that limit parts interchangeability. The M240 used by the US military is currently manufactured by FN America, the American subsidiary of the Belgian company FN Herstal.