M60E3

Published on October 7, 2021
Duration: 33:32

This review of the M60E3 machine gun highlights its improvements over the M60E1, including a lighter barrel, polymer buttstock, and forward grip for better control. While demonstrating impressive firepower and accuracy on various targets, the review also addresses the M60's historical reliability issues, such as bolt rotation wear, which led to the military's adoption of the M240B. The M60E3's iconic status in 1980s action films is also noted.

Quick Summary

The M60E3 improved upon the M60E1 with a lighter barrel, polymer stock, and forward grip. Its bipod moved to the gas tube for easier barrel changes. Despite these upgrades, reliability issues like bolt wear led to the military adopting the more robust M240B.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction & Initial Shooting
  2. 02:24M60 Variant Comparisons (E1 vs E3)
  3. 04:52Sandbag Penetration Test
  4. 07:46M60E3 Technical Improvements
  5. 10:37Loading & Range Demonstration
  6. 13:34Reliability & Maintenance Issues
  7. 16:56Final Thoughts & Pop Culture

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key improvements of the M60E3 over the M60E1?

The M60E3 introduced a lighter barrel, a polymer buttstock, and a vertical forward grip for better handling. Crucially, the bipod was moved to the gas tube to simplify barrel changes, and the top cover was redesigned for easier closure.

What reliability issues plagued the M60 machine gun series?

The M60 series, including the E3, was known for 'eating parts.' Common problems included bolt rotation wear and issues with the operating rod notch, which contributed to the military eventually adopting the more reliable M240B.

What is the rate of fire for the M60E3?

The M60E3 has a manageable rate of fire of approximately 550 rounds per minute. This allows shooters to maintain better control during sustained fire engagements.

Why did the US military transition from the M60 to the M240B?

The transition was driven by the M60's historical reputation for reliability issues, such as component wear. The M240B (MAG 58) offered superior durability and fewer maintenance problems, making it the preferred choice for modern military applications.

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