FN M249S Semiauto for Military Collectors

Published on July 10, 2024
Duration: 27:58

The FN M249S is a civilian semiautomatic variant of the U.S. military's M249 SAW, manufactured in Columbia, SC. It retains a high degree of authenticity to its military counterpart, including non-functional selector markings, while being redesigned to fire from a closed bolt for ATF compliance. The M249S can use both belt-fed ammunition and standard AR-15 magazines, making it a sought-after collector's item.

Quick Summary

The FN M249S is a civilian semiautomatic variant of the U.S. military's M249 SAW, manufactured in Columbia, SC. It's designed for collectors, retaining military authenticity while complying with ATF regulations by firing from a closed bolt. It supports both belt-fed ammunition and standard AR-15 magazines.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to the FN M249S
  2. 00:57FN Military Collector Series & US Manufacturing
  3. 03:40Design Philosophy: Authenticity for Collectors
  4. 05:02Mechanical Overview: Closed Bolt & Dual Feed
  5. 06:54Receiver Markings and Controls
  6. 09:34Feeding Mechanisms: Belts vs. AR Mags
  7. 12:30Barrel Removal Procedure
  8. 14:37Field Stripping and Internal Mechanics
  9. 22:54Market Success and Conclusion

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the FN M249S and its significance for collectors?

The FN M249S is the civilian semiautomatic version of the U.S. military's M249 SAW. It's highly sought after by military collectors because it's manufactured in the U.S. to be as close to military specifications as possible, offering a piece of modern military history.

How does the FN M249S comply with civilian firearm regulations?

To comply with ATF regulations, the M249S was redesigned to fire from a closed bolt in semiautomatic mode, unlike the military's open-bolt full-auto configuration. It also features a non-functional 'full auto' selector marking.

What are the feeding options for the FN M249S?

The FN M249S offers dual feeding capabilities. It can accept standard belted ammunition using M27 disintegrating links, typically in 200-round boxes, and also utilizes a side-mounted magazine well for standard AR-15 magazines.

Where is the FN M249S manufactured, and why is that important?

The FN M249S is manufactured in Columbia, South Carolina, as part of FN's Military Collector Series. Being 100% U.S.-made allows these firearms to bypass importation laws that would otherwise restrict civilian sales of military-style rifles.

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