Machine Gun Terminology - LMG, MMG, SAW, LSW, HMG, GPMG

Published on December 29, 2017
Duration: 24:41

This video from Forgotten Weapons, hosted by Ian McCollum, provides a comprehensive breakdown of machine gun terminology, differentiating between LMG, MMG, HMG, SAW, LSW, and GPMG. It explores their historical evolution, technical characteristics, and intended roles in military contexts, offering insights into the design philosophies behind these iconic firearms.

Quick Summary

Machine gun terminology like LMG, MMG, HMG, SAW, LSW, and GPMG defines specific roles and technical characteristics. LMGs are light and mobile, MMGs offer sustained fire from tripods, HMGs are heavy caliber for anti-materiel roles, SAWs use intermediate cartridges for squad support, and GPMGs are versatile, capable of multiple roles.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to Machine Gun Terminology
  2. 00:42Heavy Machine Gun (HMG) - Original Definition
  3. 02:23Medium Machine Gun (MMG)
  4. 04:13Automatic Rifle
  5. 08:15Light Machine Gun (LMG)
  6. 11:20General Purpose Machine Gun (GPMG)
  7. 16:12Squad Automatic Weapon (SAW) / Light Support Weapon (LSW)
  8. 19:18Heavy Machine Gun (HMG) - Modern Definition
  9. 21:30Outliers and Conclusion

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between an LMG and an HMG?

An LMG (Light Machine Gun) is typically magazine-fed and designed for bipod use, prioritizing mobility. An HMG (Heavy Machine Gun) was originally defined by its heavy, water-cooled, belt-fed design for sustained fire, but modern HMGs are often defined by their large caliber (12.7mm/.50 cal and up) for anti-materiel roles.

How did the GPMG concept evolve machine gun design?

The GPMG (General Purpose Machine Gun) concept, pioneered by weapons like the German MG34/MG42, aimed to create a single weapon that could effectively serve as both a Light Machine Gun (on a bipod) and a Heavy Machine Gun (on a tripod), featuring a quick-change barrel for versatility.

What distinguishes a SAW from other machine guns?

A SAW (Squad Automatic Weapon) is designed to provide automatic fire to a squad using intermediate cartridges, meaning they fire the same ammunition as standard assault rifles (e.g., 5.56mm NATO). This ensures logistical commonality within the squad.

What was the original role of a Heavy Machine Gun (HMG)?

Originally, HMGs like the Vickers and Maxim were designed for sustained fire from fixed positions. They were typically very heavy (over 100 lbs with mount), belt-fed, and water-cooled to handle prolonged firing without overheating.

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