M240 Bravo: America Replaces the M60

Published on November 23, 2025
Duration: 1:05

This guide details the operating controls and internal mechanisms of the M240 Bravo, as explained by Ian McCollum of Forgotten Weapons. It covers the cross-bolt safety, the unique top cover closing mechanism with its roller bearing, the single-position gas plug, and the hydraulic buffer for recoil reduction. The M240 Bravo is presented as the US Army's successor to the M60, based on the FN MAG design.

Quick Summary

The M240 Bravo, the US Army's variant of the FN MAG, replaced the M60. It features a cross-bolt safety, a unique top cover mechanism with a roller bearing allowing closure regardless of bolt position, a single-position gas plug, and a hydraulic buffer for reduced recoil, firing 7.62x51mm NATO at approximately 600 rounds per minute.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction and Origin
  2. 00:07Operating Controls
  3. 00:15Top Cover Mechanism
  4. 00:46Gas System and Rate of Fire
  5. 00:54Recoil Management

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the M240 Bravo and what does it replace?

The M240 Bravo is the US Army's version of the FN MAG machine gun. It was adopted to replace the older M60 machine gun, signifying an upgrade in the service's standard infantry support weapon.

How does the M240 Bravo's top cover operate?

The M240 Bravo's top cover can be closed regardless of the bolt's position. This is enabled by a spring-loaded roller bearing on the bolt carrier that retracts if misaligned with the feedway, then engages when the action is cycled.

What are the key features of the M240 Bravo's operating controls and recoil system?

It features a simple trigger and a large cross-bolt safety. For recoil management, it incorporates a hydraulic buffer in the stock, designed to reduce felt recoil compared to previous mechanical buffer systems.

What caliber does the M240 Bravo fire and what is its approximate rate of fire?

The M240 Bravo fires the 7.62x51mm NATO cartridge. Its approximate rate of fire is maintained at around 600 rounds per minute, with a single-position gas plug setting.

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