Wondering if the iconic M60 machine gun, made famous in movies and military history, still has a place in modern armed forces? You’re not alone. With evolving technology and the constant need for reliable firepower, many are curious whether this legendary weapon remains in use today.
This article explores the current status of the M60 in military service, why it matters, and what factors influence decisions about keeping older weapons active. Let’s find out what’s changed—and what hasn’t.
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Is the M60 Machine Gun Still in Service?
The M60 machine gun, often referred to as “The Pig,” is one of the most recognizable and legendary firearms to have armed the United States military. But with decades having passed since its initial deployment, many people wonder: Is the M60 machine gun still in service today? The answer is both yes and no, depending on how you define “service” and for whom.
The Short Answer
While the M60 is no longer the primary general-purpose machine gun for the U.S. military, it has not disappeared entirely. Most major branches have replaced it with more modern machine guns, such as the M240. However, some specialized American units and various armed forces worldwide still use updated versions of the M60 or maintain reserves of it for specific purposes.
Let’s break down why the M60 continues to have a small but noticeable presence today.
M60 Machine Gun: A Brief Legacy
1. A Legendary Introduction
- Originally introduced in the late 1950s, the M60 quickly became a mainstay of American firepower.
- It was widely used during the Vietnam War, where its high rate of fire and reliability in suppressing enemy troops earned it a fearful reputation.
- The M60 fires a 7.62x51mm NATO round—a powerful cartridge, standard among NATO forces.
2. Features That Made it Stand Out
- Air-cooled, belt-fed, and capable of fully automatic fire.
- Relatively lightweight for a general-purpose machine gun of its time.
- Equipped with simple iron sights and could be fitted with a bipod or mounted on vehicles.
Transition Away from the M60
1. Reasons for Replacement
Even though the M60 found favor for decades, the U.S. military sought improvements in several key areas:
- Reliability Issues: The M60 was notorious for certain mechanical flaws. Parts could wear down quickly, especially the barrel and feed tray, leading to jams or stoppages.
- Ergonomics and Weight: Although lighter than some predecessors, it could still be unwieldy to maneuver, and swapping barrels (a necessity during heavy use) was cumbersome.
- Advancements in Technology: Newer machine guns, designed with modern materials and engineering insights, offered greater durability and ease of maintenance.
As a result, the U.S. military began to phase out the M60 in favor of the M240 during the late 1980s and onwards.
2. The M240’s Rise
- The M240, also chambered in 7.62x51mm NATO, offered better reliability, more straightforward maintenance, and fewer stoppages.
- It became standard issue for vehicle mounts and infantry support roles in the Army, Marine Corps, and other branches.
Where Is the M60 Still Used?
Though officially replaced, the M60 hasn’t completely faded away. Here’s where it sometimes still sees service:
1. Special Operations and Niche Roles
Some elite U.S. units and special operations groups continue to use modified M60 variants, such as the M60E4 and M60E6, which have:
- Improved reliability and reduced weight.
- Modernized parts, rails, and mounting options for optics.
These modifications make the M60 suitable for certain missions where its unique handling traits or firepower are desired.
2. Reserve and National Guard Units
- A handful of National Guard and reserve units reportedly keep M60s in their armories as backup options or for training purposes.
3. Foreign Militaries
The M60 was widely distributed to U.S. allies and friendly nations during the Cold War and later. Today, many of these countries still operate M60s, especially in:
- Latin America
- Southeast Asia
- Middle Eastern and African militaries
Some forces keep them for cost-effectiveness, familiar operation, or lack of ready access to newer machine guns.
4. Law Enforcement and Civilian Ownership
- Certain police units, particularly in regions facing organized armed threats, occasionally use M60s acquired through military surplus programs.
- The M60 is also available in semi-automatic configurations for civilian use in the United States.
Benefits and Drawbacks of the M60
Let’s weigh the strengths and weaknesses that have defined the M60’s long career.
Benefits
- Firepower: Delivers a high rate of large-caliber suppressive fire.
- Versatility: Can be used by infantry, mounted on vehicles, or on helicopters.
- Proven Legacy: Its decades of service mean parts, knowledge, and accessories remain widely available.
Drawbacks
- Maintenance-Heavy: Frequent cleaning and part replacement required, especially with older models.
- Weight and Maneuverability: Can be cumbersome, diminishing its appeal compared to lighter or more ergonomic contemporaries.
- Supersession by Newer Weapons: Modern machine guns simply outclass the M60 in most metrics.
The Mystery: Recent Orders and Continuing Interest
Interestingly, there have been recent reports that the U.S. Army has ordered new batches of “retired” M60 machine guns. The exact reason for these acquisitions is unclear and has generated speculation. Potential explanations include:
- Redistribution to allies or partner nations.
- Use in training or historical reenactments.
- Reserve or emergency stockpiling.
This points to the M60’s enduring relevance, even if it is no longer front-line equipment.
Practical Advice: Handling and Maintenance Tips
If you ever find yourself responsible for an M60—perhaps through military service, a museum, or as a firearms enthusiast—some best practices remain crucial:
1. Maintenance Essentials
- Regular Cleaning: Carbon buildup can quickly affect reliability. Clean frequently after firing.
- Barrel Care: Avoid overheating the barrel; switch barrels if available during prolonged firing.
- Inspect Feed and Ejection System: Frequent checks minimize stoppages.
2. Operation Tips
- Practice Magazine/Feed Belt Changes: Smooth, quick reloads reduce vulnerability.
- Familiarize With Malfunctions: Know common failures and how to correct them under stress.
3. Safety Musts
- Always ensure the weapon is clear before handling.
- Be aware of your firing arc and what lies beyond your target.
- Use only approved ammunition and accessories.
The M60 in Popular Culture and Collecting
- The M60’s presence in movies, video games, and historical documentaries keeps it in the public eye. Soldiers nicknamed it “The Pig” for its voracious appetite for ammunition and distinct report.
- Surviving models are highly collectible, with enthusiasts treasuring their historical significance and mechanical ingenuity.
Summary
The M60 machine gun’s days as the standard bearer for American infantry are over, but its legacy continues. While replaced in most military roles by more modern alternatives, the M60 endures in specialized U.S. units, reserves, foreign militaries, and as a cultural icon. Its mix of history, firepower, and utility ensures the M60 won’t be forgotten anytime soon.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is the M60 still used by the U.S. military today?
The M60 is no longer standard-issue for U.S. Army and Marine units, having been replaced mostly by the M240. However, some special operations groups and reserve units still use updated variants for specific missions or training purposes.
Why was the M60 replaced?
The M60 was replaced because of reliability issues and the arrival of more durable, user-friendly machine guns like the M240. The newer guns are easier to maintain and less prone to malfunction during intense use.
Which countries still use the M60?
Numerous nations in Latin America, Asia, Africa, and the Middle East continue to use the M60 due to its proven effectiveness and the difficulty or expense in acquiring newer alternatives.
Is it possible for civilians to own the M60?
In the United States, civilians can legally own semi-automatic versions of the M60, and select-fire models (capable of automatic fire) are tightly regulated and rare, but still available to those who comply with federal laws.
What made the M60 earn the nickname “The Pig”?
Soldiers gave the M60 this nickname because it “ate” large quantities of ammunition quickly, was noisy, and required a lot of attention to keep running smoothly—traits that inspired both affection and frustration among its operators.
In summary, the M60 machine gun continues to leave a formidable impression—its story far from over, and its distinctive silhouette and thundering report remain familiar to both soldiers and observers around the world.