Discover the M60 machine gun, an iconic piece of military history that has captivated firearm enthusiasts and collectors alike. Known for its robust design and reliability, the M60 offers a unique blend of nostalgia and modern appeal. Whether you’re a seasoned collector, a history buff, or simply curious about this legendary weapon, our shopping guide will help you navigate the best options available on the market today.
The M60 Machine Gun Shopping Guide
The M60 machine gun, often referred to as “The Pig,” is an iconic piece of military hardware that has served various armed forces since its introduction in the late 1950s. Known for its versatility and firepower, the M60 has a storied history, especially during conflicts like the Vietnam War. This shopping guide is designed to provide you with comprehensive insights into the M60 machine gun, its variants, features, usage, and considerations for ownership, whether for military, historical, or collector purposes.
Comparison Table of M60 Variants
| Variant | Weight | Length | Rate of Fire (RPM) | Effective Range | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| M60 | 23 lbs | 42.5 inches | 550 (cyclic) | 1,200 yards | Quick-change barrel, bipod, belt-fed |
| M60E1 | 22 lbs | 43 inches | 600 (cyclic) | 1,200 yards | Improved feed tray, bipod relocated to gas cylinder |
| M60E3 | 18.75 lbs | 43 inches | 500 (sustained) | 1,100 yards | Lightweight, ambidextrous safety, simplified gas system |
| M60E4 | 19 lbs | 43 inches | 550 (cyclic) | 1,200 yards | Updated bipod, enhanced reliability |
| M60E6 | 20 lbs | 43 inches | 600 (cyclic) | 1,200 yards | Enhanced feed mechanism, adjustable front sight |
Key Features of the M60 Machine Gun
1. Construction and Design
The M60 features a robust, gas-operated system that utilizes a belt-fed mechanism, allowing for sustained fire. Its lightweight design, compared to older machine guns, makes it more portable for infantry use. The quick-change barrel system is crucial for maintaining fire without overheating, especially in prolonged engagements.
2. Ammunition and Firepower
The M60 is chambered for the 7.62x51mm NATO cartridge, providing significant stopping power. It supports various ammunition types, including:
– M80 Ball: Standard round for personnel and light material.
– M61 Armor-Piercing: Designed for penetrating light armor.
– M62 Tracer: Assists in aiming and fire adjustment.
– M63 Dummy: For training purposes.
– M82 Blank: Used in training simulations.
3. Versatility in Roles
The M60 can be utilized in multiple configurations:
– Infantry Use: Fired from the shoulder or mounted on a bipod.
– Vehicle-Mounted: Adapted for various military vehicles and aircraft.
– Fixed Positions: Set up on tripods for defensive operations.
Usage and Safety
1. Proper Handling and Maintenance
- Safety First: Always treat the M60 as if it’s loaded. Engage the safety when not in use.
- Regular Cleaning: Due to its tendency to jam, especially in dirty conditions, ensure regular cleaning and maintenance of the gas system and feed tray.
- Ammunition Handling: Store ammunition in cool, dry conditions to prevent corrosion. Avoid exposing ammo to direct sunlight or moisture.
2. Operational Use
- Team Coordination: The M60 is typically operated by a team consisting of a gunner, assistant gunner, and ammunition bearer. Coordination is key for effective use in combat scenarios.
- Barrel Changes: Be familiar with the procedure for changing barrels during firefights. This requires practice to perform efficiently under stress.
Practical Tips for Choosing and Using the M60 Machine Gun
- Assess Your Needs: Determine the primary purpose for the M60—historical collection, military reenactment, or as part of a tactical team.
- Research Variants: Each variant has specific features and improvements. The M60E4 and M60E6 have enhancements that might suit modern applications better.
- Check Availability: Look for reputable dealers or military surplus stores for purchasing, and ensure the weapon is compliant with local regulations.
- Training: If you’re new to machine guns, seek out qualified training programs to familiarize yourself with operation and safety protocols.
- Join Communities: Engage with military history groups or reenactment societies to learn from experienced users and enhance your understanding of the weapon.
Technical Specifications Table
| Feature | M60 | M60E1 | M60E3 | M60E4 | M60E6 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Weight | 23 lbs | 22 lbs | 18.75 lbs | 19 lbs | 20 lbs |
| Length | 42.5 in | 43 in | 43 in | 43 in | 43 in |
| Muzzle Velocity | 2,800 fps | 2,800 fps | 2,800 fps | 2,800 fps | 2,800 fps |
| Cyclic Rate of Fire | 550 RPM | 600 RPM | 500 RPM | 550 RPM | 600 RPM |
| Effective Range | 1,200 yds | 1,200 yds | 1,100 yds | 1,200 yds | 1,200 yds |
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Conclusion
The M60 machine gun remains a significant symbol of military firepower and versatility. Whether you’re a collector, a military enthusiast, or looking to engage in tactical operations, understanding the M60’s features, proper usage, and safety protocols is essential. By following this shopping guide, you can make informed decisions regarding the purchase and use of this iconic machine gun.
FAQ
What is the M60 machine gun?
The M60 is a gas-operated, belt-fed machine gun that has been used by the U.S. military since 1957, known for its versatility and firepower.
What caliber does the M60 use?
The M60 fires the 7.62x51mm NATO cartridge.
How heavy is the M60?
The M60 weighs approximately 23 pounds, while some variants like the M60E3 weigh around 18.75 pounds.
What are the main variants of the M60?
The main variants include the M60, M60E1, M60E3, M60E4, and M60E6, each with specific improvements and features.
What is the rate of fire for the M60?
The M60 has a cyclic rate of fire of about 550 to 600 rounds per minute, depending on the variant.
How do you change the barrel on the M60?
To change the barrel, the gun must be dismounted, and the hot barrel is replaced with a new one, which requires careful handling to avoid burns.
Is the M60 prone to jamming?
Yes, the M60 can jam, especially if it becomes dirty or if the feed mechanism is not properly maintained.
Can the M60 be mounted on vehicles?
Yes, the M60 can be mounted on various military vehicles, helicopters, and other platforms for enhanced firepower.
What type of ammunition is used with the M60?
The M60 can use several types of ammunition, including ball, armor-piercing, tracer, dummy, and blank rounds.
Is the M60 still in use today?
While the M60 has largely been replaced by more modern machine guns like the M240, it is still in limited use by some military units and is popular among collectors.