GIRLS WITH GUNS

Rangewear Collection/Carbine Pant

The Carbine Pant is lightweight, water-resistant, tactical range pants, featuring a four-way stretch and reinforced, articulated knees for a better range of motion. Side cargo pockets, additional magazine pockets, reinforced 1.5-inch waistband with belt loops and accessory D-ring, and rede-signed, easy-access rear pockets make the Carbine your everyday range wear pant. The Carbine Pant has the same customizable, adjustable Velcro pull tab waistband and snap lock adjustable inseam (30- to 36-inch inseam) as our signature camo hunting pants. Come in Black, sizes XS-3X. gwgclothing.com

SIGHTMARK

Wraith 4-32x50mm Digital Riflescope

See the future in high definition with the new Sightmark Wraith 4-32x50mm Digital Riflescope. Hunt with an advanced 1920×1080 HD sensor, providing full-color clarity in daytime; simply hit the left arrow to switch to night mode with classic emerald or black and white viewing options. The Wraith comes with a removable 850nm IR illuminator to provide an enhanced nighttime image and accurate target acquisition up to 200 yards. Customize your rifle scope with 10 reticle options and 9 color choices to fit your needs. The Wraith features a built-in camera allowing users to record and share videos. 4.5-hours of battery life with four AA batteries and an external Micro USB port expands options for power. Wraiths also allow video recording and export.  sightmark.com

TANGODOWN INC.

Vickers Tactical Slide Stop for the GLOCK 43X and 48

TangoDown Inc. is pleased to announce the latest addition to the lineup—the Vickers Tactical Slide Stop for GLOCK 43X and 48 (VTSS-004). The VTSS-004 has an uprated return spring to accommodate the increased slide mass of the G48 for consistent reliability. The thumb pad is reshaped with deep serrations which allows for easy manipulation even while wearing gloves. Installation by a Certified GLOCK armorer or gunsmith recommended. tangodown.com

FN HERSTAL

The Subcompact FN SCAR-SC

At the end of 2017, FN Herstal launched its new FN SCAR-SC Subcompact Carbine in 5.56x45mm (.223). More recently, the company unveiled a variant in 7.62x35mm (.300 BLK) caliber. Both feature a standard telescopic buttstock and are available with a wide choice of buttstock types and accessories to accommodate the specific needs of the users. fnherstal.com

VIRIDIAN WEAPON TECHNOLOGIES

C5L Green Laser and Light

The Viridian C5L green laser and tactical light is so tiny that it tucks neatly between trigger guard and muzzle, with no overhang, and will work with virtually any railed gun. The C5L features a brilliant green laser with multiple modes of operation and easy windage/elevation adjustment. viridianweapontech.com

WHITE HAT HOLSTERS

The Carry Caddy & Holster

The Carry Caddy is an “innovative platform” which can be used in a variety of hand-held or shoulder-held bags. You can turn any handbag, purse, duffel bag, briefcase or backpack into a concealed carry bag. The adjustable Carry Caddy, made of several thicknesses of cowhide, is very stiff. With “Ulticlip 3.3 slim clips,” it attaches to the fabric portion inside your bag to give a “stable resting platform” for a Velcro holster backer to attach to. Simply clip it inside the pocket and place the Velcro holster backer against it.
The holster, which sells separately from the Carry Caddy, is two pieces. The backer is of high-quality leather, tension inserts in the center and stitched hook-side Velcro Brand fastener on the back. The holster itself is a colored and designed Kydex, which is attached to the holster backer with the same type of screws found on the Carry Caddy. The holster can be imprinted with your business logo, badge number or personalized in any way. whitehatholsters.com

LYMAN / PACHMAYR

Pachmayr Alume Series Grips

Lyman® Products introduces the Pachmayr Alume Series grips by Raf-fir for the 1911. A master of materials, both natural and composite, Raffir is a Danish company with over a decade of experience in developing and treating materials reaching new plateaus of aesthetics and durability for a variety of products including the Pachmayr Alume grips for 1911 pistols. The material used in making the Raffir Alume grips is a composite with aluminum mesh encapsulated in a transluscent epoxy resin. The mate-rial has a unique 3-D dimensional texture with contrasts between satin light grey aluminum and deep colored, semi-transparent resin. Pachmayr offers this new material in five different colors. lymanproducts.com

Tacomhq

This year Tacomhq is introducing the tarac an optical accessory that adds 1.0 Moa to 120+ mils to any optic for additional range (with additional “zeroes”) and automatically compensates for bullet drop for you.

“Todd-Hodnett-approved,” the Tarac is military purchased and tested and is available in the alpha, bravo and charlie tarac. The alpha tarac is a 500 yd 1.25” Lens pop-up for ars to immediately switch from cqb (close quarter battles) to 500 yds in secs. The Bravo Tarac is 2.25” Lens pop-up designed for ars and scopes. Set your bravo tarac as 500-yd pop-up for ars, or set your bravo to boost your scope’s total operating range by adding up to 30.0 Moa (adaptable for either application in secs). The charlie tarac is long range 10 to 120+ mils scope boosting accessory that can add 10’s of mils of additional range instantly with an accessory that can fit in your pocket. With the charlie there is no distortion, light loss or chromatic aberration. There’s no need for special scope mounts, adjustable height rings, slanted picatinny rails or change in cheek position.

Lasermax releases activation technology

Now in its 26th year, Lasermax is a leading innovator and designer of premium laser aiming systems with a growing portfolio of significant patents. Specializing in the design and manufacture of rugged and innovative firearm sighting solutions for military, law enforcement and commercial markets worldwide, the company also delivers premium laser products and optical systems for the semiconductor, aerospace, biomedical and telecommunications industries. Lasermax is an ISO 9001:2008 certified and WOSB 8(m) certified women-owned small business and has been recognized by Inc. 500|5000 As one of the fastest growing companies in the U.S.

The company announced on January 5, 2016, that Lasermax is set to release revolutionary activation technology for its line of Centerfire light and laser products. This new activation technology is coined Gripsense. “This revolutionary new technology combines the best of both instant activation and controlled activation into the same product” said Chris Tinkle, chief sales officer for Lasermax. “Our Gripsense technology allows consumers to choose how they want to activate their light and laser. Your gun, your choice.”

The patent pending Gripsense technology from Lasermax debuted to the industry at the 2017 SHOTShow on January 17, with a few sneak peeks prior at sales channel partners expositions. Industry professionals stop by any Lasermax exposition, to become a part of the Gripsense nation.

Hexmag offers Advanced AR-15 Pistol Grips

Hexmag, LLC (www.Hexmag.Com), maker of the most advanced and versatile AR-15/AR-10 platform magazines on the market, proudly presents two new pistol grips that are excellent for either rifle. Both grips are available in black or flat dark earth and feature upper grip extensions. New from Hexmag is the Hexmag Tactical Grip (HTG). This grip features a unique overmolded soft rubber grip surface with finger grooves and a rounded back strap swell similar to many 1911 pistols. The HTG also comes with the innovative Gapper which fills the space between the trigger guard and grip for increased comfort.

The HTG allows for a fuller and firmer grip squeeze—or purchase and is an excellent choice for most shooters. Its grip well is also hollow so backup items such as batteries, ear plugs, and a number of after-market accessories can be inserted inside for long term backup. “The versatility that each of these grips provides to our customers ensures that whether in the field or at the range, Hexmag has affordable options that get the job done,” according to Dave Smith, marketing director. MSRP: $34.99.

The Hexmag Advanced Tactical Grip (ATG) is designed for competition and shooters with special needs/requirements. This patented and easily-installed grip allows shooter to adjust the grip angle by several degrees to accommodate different preferences, hand sizes and/or shooting positions.

Installing the ATG on an AR-15/10 platform is a five-minute task that can be done without machining or special fitting. After installation, the grip angle can be easily adjusted from the standard to 17, 25 or 33 degrees takes in just a few seconds: loosen the grip well screw, move the grip to the desired position, then re-tighten the screw, and it will stay locked in position. MSRP: $27.99.

The new low-profile Hexmag pattern high-traction, non-slip rubber rail covers can be easily snapped onto the unused sections of your rifle’s accessory rail (picatinny, m-lok, wedgelok or keymod wedgelok), and you are both good to go and band-aid safe. Hexmag rail covers effectively and attractively protect your rifle’s rail mounting surface from nicks and bangs that can render a good accessory lock-in difficult or impossible. “These rail covers not only provide functionality and protection,” says Hexmag marketing director Dave Smith, “They add a distinct complementary look and design across our accessory line for that empty rail space on rifle and carbine forearms.” Hexmag rail covers come in 3- and 4-packs and are available in 7- or 18-slot versions (depending on firearm model). They can be ordered in two colors; black or flat dark earth. MSRP: from $21.79 To $33.99, Depending on firearm model, cover size and quantity. Hexmag grips, magazines and accessories are made in the USA and come with Hexmag’s lifetime warranty.

Champion’s Center Mass AR500 steel targets

Nothing beats the instant feedback and satisfying “ping!” When a well-aimed shot hits a steel target. The new Champion Center Mass AR500 steel targets are designed for years of fun at the range. The AR500 steel is hard enough to withstand multiple calibers at the appropriate distances. The targets also come in three different shapes and sizes, allowing for a customizable shooting experience. Hearing is believing with Champion Center Mass AR500 steel targets.

• Premium rolled and hardened AR500 steel construction
• Made in the U.S.
• Centerfire rifle rated (3/8” thick)
• Centerfire pistol rated (1/4” thick)
• Precise, laser-cut edges
• Square holes for 1/2” carriage bolts.

Savage Arms MSR 10 Hunter

The MSR 10 Hunter is a light, compact sporting platform that still packs the punch of 308 win. and 6.5 Creedmoor chamberings. The rifle squeezes even more performance from its upgraded barrel with a target chamber, 5R rifling, Blackhawk! AR Blaze trigger and tough melonite QPQ finish. Savage Arms MSR 10 Long Range pack all the features and upgrades you expect from a savage precision rifle into a single platform and you have the MSR 10 Long Range. Chambered in 6.5 Creedmoor or 308 win., it is built on a compact frame with a non-reciprocating side-charging handle. Its Blackhawk! Two-stage, target trigger and Magpul PRS adjustable buttstock optimize the accuracy of the upgraded barrel, which features a target chamber, 5R rifling and melonite QPQ finish.

American Built Arms Co. Howa precision rifle and MOD*X M500 Tactical Shotgun System

The A*B Arms Howa Precision rifle is a lightweight, affordable and extremely accurate rifle system featuring the Howa 1500 short-action rifle, available in .308 And 6.5 Creedmoor. The Howa precision rifle features the Howa 1500 black barreled action w/h.A.C.T. Trigger and a 22” standard barrel with a 1:10 twist. The barreled-action is housed in the A*B Arms MOD*X Gen III Modular Rifle System chassis. The chassis is aluminum, hard-coat anodized to mil-spec type III with a 11.5” Free-floating modular forearm featuring three sides with keymod attachment points. It is distributed exclusively through united sporting companies. Contact your FFL dealer today to determine availability (http://www.Ellettbrothers.Com/dealerlocator.Asp).

The A*B Arms MOD*X M500 Tactical Shotgun System is a bolt-on replacement stock specifically designed for the Mossberg 500 shotgun. The “fixed-adjustable” buttstock which includes the A*B Arms enhanced buffer tube and spring loaded butt pad allows for up to 28 different locking positions. The adapter easily bolts to rear of the rifle receiver without any alterations to your rifle. The A*B Arms MOD*X M500 Tactical Shotgun System is a lightweight, ergonomic butt stock that provides a quality, flexible upgrade to the existing factory stock.

CZ-USA P-10 C

With a crisp, clean 4.5 Lb trigger pull and an incredibly short reset, The P-10 C stands as one of the best if not the best factory striker trigger on the market. Coupled with the ergonomics CZ is known for as well as their cold hammer forged barrel, it’s what every duty gun should be–accurate, reliable and easy to shoot.

Battle Arms 300© PDW–7.5” 300Blk SBR personal defense weapon and ultra compact pistol Sabertube© and Vert© buffer system combo

The 300© is built on Battle Arms Development’s monolithic PDW lower receiver and integral Vert© stock system for unparalleled strength and weight savings. It features a 7.5” 300 Blk barrel and ambidextrous controls. The ultimate PDW designed with law enforcement, executive protection and special operations in mind. At only 20.1” Overall length, the 300© is perfect for where discretion, portability and concealment is of the utmost importance.

Compatible with the ultra compact Vert© buffer system, the new ultra compact pistol Sabertube© features our Vert© buffer spring system. Measuring at only 4.75”, It is functional, clean and has an elegant dimpled design making it the most unique buffer tube on the market.

FN Herstal FN FCU Mk3

FN Herstal is introducing its third generation mk3 version of the FN FCU. The FN FCU Mk3 integrates the latest generation of electronic modules to improve its performance–and takes into account feedback from user experience with the earlier models. It retains the benefits of earlier versions (automatically adjusted point of aim, fast target acquisition night and day) while adding a host of enhancements. This includes an improved laser range finder for even better accuracy, a larger aiming window for easier target acquisition, automatic sight adjustment for lateral drift, reduced size, reduced power consumption and a quick detach base through a picatinny type interface and one hand activated lever. In addition, the new FN FCU Mk3 has several laser safety features for enhanced training capability.

When combined, all these improvements help to dramatically increase the hit probability of the 40mm grenade system in defense and security operations and embody FN Herstal’s motto of ‘enhancing capability through technology’. The FN FCU Mk3 can be fitted onto a wider range of underbarrel and stand-alone launchers and because the FN FCU/User interface remains unchanged no extra training is required for users of previous models. Firing tables supplied with earlier models, or created for them, can also be easily transferred to the new version.

When I answered the phone, I could sense the frustration in his voice. The caller was a friend of mine who head up small arms procurement in a Scandinavian country. His quick greeting was followed by the description of a small machine screw. As he gave me the dimensions in millimeters, I banged out a few numbers on my calculator, and realized he was describing a 6-40 screw – common in our inch-system. He told me it was for a U.S.-made gun sight. He had checked all of his sources in Scandinavia and even some in Europe, but none of these suppliers had any on hand. He asked if I would buy him some of these screws so he could pick them up when he visited me in Florida during the following week.

This episode started me to thinking about U.S. small arms. Is it time we consider going metric? I know we’ve been at this crossroads before, but it has never happened. Maybe there are good reasons now to reconsider. If you’ll allow me to present some facts, I’ll let you be the judge.

One of the first facts to consider, is that a “decimal-based measurement system” (the metric system) was proposed by Thomas Jefferson in 1790 and the U.S. mint was formed to produce the world’s first decimal currency with the U.S. dollar equal to 100 cents. Our system of measure did not go that way. As I’m sure you know, our inch-system is a carryover from our days as an English colony. The last major holdouts for the inch system were one-time fellow colonies: New Zealand, Australia, and Canada who switched over to metric more than 40 years ago.

Flirtation with a Metric Small Arm-the FN FAL

In 1953, the U.S. military had to decide what they would do if the 7.62mm Belgian FN FAL (U.S. designation T48) were to win the competition against the U.S. T44 (M14.) After beating out the M14 in several trials, the FAL was on the fast track to become the official U.S. service rifle, but the FAL did have one detractor: the design was metric. To assure there would be no U.S. production problems, Harrington and Richardson was awarded a contract to convert the design over to the inch system. H&R built a quantity of 500 inch-system FAL’s of exceptional quality. As this production was ongoing, engineers under the direction of Springfield Arsenal’s Roy Rayle, worked around the clock to correct deficiencies in the M14 design. In 1954 testing, the two rifles – T44 (M14) and the U.S.-made T48 (FAL) tested to a draw, and in subsequent trials the T44 went on to win.

Why the big exercise to make an inch-system rifle? To enable U.S. production of the T48-FAL in the 1953 timeframe, there was almost no choice but to convert the design and the drawings to the inch-system. Factories across America had manual lathes and milling machines that could produce weapon components, but these were all set up with inch-system controls. Screws, roll pins, solid pins, spring wire, and sheet metal stock were readily available in U.S. markets, but only in inch-system sizes. Similarly, measurement tools, like vernier calipers, micrometers, and gage blocks were configured for inch-system only measurements. Producing metric components in the U.S. without converting to the inch system was simply not a reasonable option. Success of the T44-M14 made the issue temporarily go away, with no need for further consideration of the metric system in small arms for a long time afterwards.

U.S. Government Mandates Metric

By 1968, most of the world had become metric so a Federal law authorized a 3-year study to determine the impact of increasing metric use in the U.S. Many of the major companies in the U.S. passed out conversion manuals for the International System of Units (SI) that was being adopted throughout the world and trained their workers to use the metric system. By this time, the newer Computer Numerically Controlled (CNC) lathes and milling machines were capable of easily converting back and forth from inch to metric so there would be no major trauma when metric drawings reached the production floor.

The U.S. Metric Study was completed in 1971 and their published report recommended we should “go metric” on a carefully coordinated national program. Congress passed the Metric Conversion Act of 1975 and established a U.S. Metric Board, but a timeline was never established for metric conversion. U.S. arms producers like the General Electric Armament Systems Department, followed a government directive mandating that new guns should be metric. They complied in the next product they released, making the drawings for the newest Gatling gun totally metric. And what about the ammunition feed system that connected to it? It was produced using inch system dimensions. Why? Because the government directive said the guns had to be metric, but made no mention of the feed system, so it was a half measure at best. This was typical of the resistive mood of the country towards the metric system. After years of public apathy, spending money, and achieving only marginal results, the U.S. Metric Board was disbanded by President Reagan in 1982.

European Small Arm is adopted: It’s a Sweet Baby but it’s Metric.

In the mid 1970s an international shoot-off resulted in the adoption of the first metric weapon in modern U.S. military history, the 7.62mm FN Herstal Belgian MAG-58. The machine gun, U.S. designation M240, was designed totally in metric. The Army bought the manufacturing rights and the drawings with the intent to competitively procure the weapon and spare parts from manufacturers in the U.S. This required that the Army bring these 1950s era drawings up to current standards, meaning the ones outlined in a specification known as ANSI-Y-14.5 managed by the American Society of Mechanical Engineers. The Army converted the drawings themselves but left the metric system in place. They also left the drawings in first angle projection – the European standard – but more about that later.

It is important to note that by the late 1970s, the manufacturing scene in the United States changed dramatically. CNC machine tools were everywhere, with most of them easily capable of switching from inch to metric. Many conventional lathes and milling machines had digital readouts added to them, making them capable of inch/metric conversion with the push of a button.

FN Herstal won the 1979 production contract to make the M240 in the U.S, and built a factory in South Carolina. FN knew they would be faced with a challenge in finding qualified machinists and other factory help, but they had experience in setting up small arms factories in third world counties and reckoned South Carolina would be easy by comparison. They brought in their own manufacturing team to train the workers, hired manufacturing managers who had prior experience setting up manufacturing plants outside the U.S., and went totally metric on the manufacturing process. During the first full production year, a quantity of 4,509 M240’s was the production goal set by the Army. Guns from every production lot that year had to pass an interchangeability test with other M240s made on the same line. At specified intervals, U.S. made M240s were interchanged with FN Herstal-made guns and were required to pass the same acceptance test. In every case, the weapons functioned flawlessly and the production goals were achieved.

Five years later, the FN South Carolina plant submitted the lowest bid and won the manufacturing contract for the M16A4. If there was to be a metric/inch production challenge, this was it. There was no plan to change the M16 drawings to metric. In fact, it was never discussed. Rather, buttons were pushed on the CNC machines and machines that were formerly making metric M240 parts were now making M16 components. Not only were both inch and metric drawings on the shop floor at the same time but the U.S. drawings were in third angle projection and ones of European origin were in first angle projection.

First Angle – Third Angle: What is it and Who Cares?

The “projection of a drawing-first or third angle” relates to engineering drawings, or “blueprints” if you prefer that term. Since we must use a two dimensional drawing to define a three dimensional component, rules have been set up for where different views are positioned on the drawing – this is called the “projection.” Europeans set their drawings up in first angle projection while in the U.S. we prefer third angle projection. First angle and third angle drawings have one view in common but the rest of the views are in opposite locations. The differences between these conventions are explained in the illustration, and it all makes more sense if you consider the logic behind them. In the third angle system, the user moves his/her eye around the part 90° at a time to “see” another side of the part and the view is positioned accordingly. In the first angle projection system the part is “rotated” 90° each time for a new view. If you are familiar with one system and not the other, you’ll find the left side view where you expect the right side to be, the top where the bottom should be, and so on.

Textbooks describing these systems make the case that Americans find first angle projection illogical. To avoid confusion, drawing standards specify that a figure with two views of a truncated cone be placed in the title block of every drawing to show the part is depicted in first or third angle projection. There is little danger in confusing metric dimensions for inch dimensions; like making a firing pin 400 inches long instead of 400 millimeters. Not paying attention to whether the part to be made is described in first or third angle projection, however, can easily result in parts being made backwards.

By now you may be wondering how FN Manufacturing made out manufacturing with drawings in first and third angle projection as well as metric and inch. Surprisingly it didn’t cause them any problems. The U.S. Army eventually did convert the M240 drawings to third angle projection, fearing that small businesses making spare parts without understanding the application could mistakenly make the parts backwards.

Where Are We Now?

He we are today, 30 years after the metric M240 was put into U.S. production and where is our manufacturing technology? Essentially with the flip of a switch, practically every modern machine tool will operate in metric or inch. Electronic digital readouts on manual milling machines and lathes give even those machines dual capability and the opportunity for even the smallest machine shop to produce in either system. Even inspection equipment from Coordinate Measuring Machines to hand held vernier calipers and micrometers swap metric units for inch units at the push of a button. And what about first and third angle projection? Most good Computer Aided Design (CAD) systems that we now use to make our drawings can switch from either system by the mere selection of a “radio” button. Our military continues to procure metric weapons including the Beretta M9 pistol and the Heckler & Koch M320 grenade launcher and at the same time inch-system weapons like the M4 and M110.

It is the job of U.S. arsenals and military directorates to specify what small arms will be bought along with the drawing packages that define them. There is a directive in the Federal Acquisition Regulations that specifies metric dimensions should be used. Officially, the metric system is preferred, but there are open ended exceptions to the Metric Conversion Act. This means the military doesn’t really care if your drawings are inch or metric or if your hammer rotates on a 1/8-inch pin or one 3 millimeters in diameter. One of the newest small arms under consideration by the military is the LSAT designed by AAI. This light machine gun, firing cased telescoped ammunition, is designed in inch system and is likely to stay that way unless the military directs otherwise.

Pro – Let’s Do It

Just how difficult would it be to specify totally metric weapons from here on out? There would be changes to threaded fasteners, pins, nuts, spring wire, rollers, ball or roller bearings and other hardware. For the most part, the standard metric sizes are close enough to the standard inch sizes so that nothing is sacrificed in strength or durability. Sheet metal comes in standard metric sizes but this is one where direct substitution that could cause a problem causing the substituted part to be too thick or too thin. This change does require careful study and potentially some dimensional changes to mating parts.

Our NATO and other allies are all using the metric system and sometimes our weapons systems. If our small arms were designed with metric, components like pins, screws, and other hardware, would be available to them in their normal supply chains avoiding situations like the one my Scandinavian friend encountered. In short, metrification would make all U.S. small arms more attractive to the rest of the world.

Likely the best reason is that the metric system is incredibly simple. U.S. schools are teaching the metric system and students are finding it easier than our inch system. One high school teacher told me that when her students are required to make measurements, she gives them metric rulers. She switched from inch rulers because students became so bogged down with fractional inch conversions; they were missing the point of the exercise.

Con – Let’s Don’t

We’ve been making parts in inch system dimensions for a long time, now, and have a ready supply of inch system hardware and components. In many cases, metric components are more expensive. The easiest path forward is to continue to let small arms manufacturers produce weapons using any system they want.

Any change, no matter how small, always has an associated price. Not every machine shop is equipped with the latest machine tools and measuring equipment, and even those that do, will still find a certain percentage of their equipment will become obsolete.

The manufacturing success at FN aside, it cannot be denied, there is always the possibility of making manufacturing mistakes when using both inch and metric drawings in the same factory. Introducing metric drawings in first angle projection will only compound the problem.

Conclusion

It’s decision time. Do we make the change to metric in small arms now, or do we kick the can down the road and hope for the best? After all, we still have some allies who, like us, have not adopted the metric system – Liberia and Myanmar. If we hurry, we might at least say we’re not the last country to “Go Metric.”

On a cold, snow-covered day in January, 2010 we had the opportunity to go to the area of Liege in Belgium, to visit FN Herstal.

Our day started with an inspection of the workshops where we could observe the various operations of machining, cold hammering of barrels, surface treatment of and assembly of the various weapons produced by FN. The frames, breech and other major pieces of the elements entering in the composition of the various models are carried out on ultramodern machine tools with rigorous quality control throughout manufacture.

Barrels are produced by cold hammering except those for 12.7mm machine guns of and 40mm grenade launchers. Surface treatment is conducted in a shop on the ground floor to apply electrolysis, anodization, parkerizing and painting while the chemicals are stored in the basement in order to eliminate any risk of cross contamination from certain components. The routing of parts in the course of manufacture are in the same building and is carried out by means of robots, which simplifies handling. Final assembly and tests are performed by highly trained and skilled employees.

In Belgium, FN employs approximately 1,400 people. The Herstal group maintains privileged relations with its subsidiary companies and its partners that include:

• Browning Viana in Portugal (handguns, hunting rifles),
• FNM in South Carolina, small arms for the American market and Winchester guns),
• ATI in Salt Lake City (Utah), Browning Buck Mark pistols and rifles
• Miroku in Japan, hunting weapons

Ballistic testing and the production of the ammunition are carried out in Zutendaal, approximately 25 miles from Liege. After our morning tour of the factories in Liege we then travelled to Zutendaal, where after a lunch, we were able to test on the shooting range some weapons which are the best of the FN production.

F2000

Conceived in 1995, the F2000 project was presented in 2001. It is a modular Bull Pup compact rifle and is completely ambidextrous. The interchangeability of parts such as sights, various types of hand guards and a stock with a housing designed to hold batteries used to feed an optoelectronic device makes it a general-purpose gun.

The internal mechanical units are contained in a polymer frame. The pistol grip is located at the centre of gravity. The cocking handle is located on the left side and ejection of the empty cases is carried out forward. There is a flash hider at the end of the barrel. In front of the trigger guard is a neutral or specialized hand guard that can receive various accessories. The upper portion of the frame receives a sight or various optic sights. A folding door flap makes it possible for the user to inspect the chamber or bolt head. The frame is made of composite material while the barrel and the bolt are made of steel. This model is available in a black or sand finish.

The safety is part of the selector switch. This is presented, as on the P90, in the shape of an ambidextrous rotary button placed just below the trigger and turns from right t left as safety (S), single shot (1), or burst (A).

On the initial version, sighting is ensured by a 1.6x optic, installed on a Picatinny rail made out of polymer and has a cover to protect it. Other models are fitted with a Picatinny rail made of light alloy, being able to receive a reflex sight, night sight, laser, or a Fire Control Unit (FCU) combining an optic sighting, rangefinder and a device for programming the grenade trajectories.

The rifle uses a standardized STANAG 4179 magazine (M16 improved steel magazine). The gun works with a gas port with a two-position regulator. The bolt is locked by a rotating head.

The F2000 receives a bayonet with a simple edge Bowie blade with no ring nor cross piece and has a prismatic khaki polymer material handle. The F2000 can be fitted with many accessories:

• standard hand guard with light,
• hand guard with three Picatinny rails,
• hand guard with 40mm grenade launcher

Several countries have purchased the F2000 to equip whole or part of their armed forces that include: Saudi Arabia, Belgium, Cyprus, Mexico, Peru, Slovenia and Eastern Timor.

While we have had on many occasions the opportunity to handle the F2000 at many international exhibitions, the handling of this Bull Pup designed weapon does not surprise the French who have handled a similar design with the FAMAS though the Belgian weapon is lighter while being bulkier, in particular in thickness.

The selector, similar to that of the P 90, surprises a little, but its control remains quite visible and a simple touch makes it possible to judge its position. Low pressure on the trigger allows single shots even when the selector is in the burst position. Recoil is light and without vibrations. The weapon is particularly stable, with a rate of fire about 800 to 900 rpm and the ejection of cases is carried out forwards.

FN SCAR

The FN SCAR (Special Forces Combat Assault Rifle) project was developed at the request of the U.S. Army for the realization of a modular system of weapons. The result is two families of weapons (SCAR L in 5.56mm and SCAR H in 7.62mm). Work on the project began in 2001 and the first models were delivered during the second half of 2007 for an evaluation by troops (Special Forces, Rangers, Navy Seals, etc).

The organization of the rifle is conventional with a folding telescopic stock that can be adjusted in length with a 6-position telescopic device. The cheek rest is adjustable in height. The stock, lower frame and pistol grip are of polymer and the frame is of light alloy. The barrel and bolt are made of steel. The cocking handle is reversible and the ejection port is located on the right. The front part of the upper frame is equipped with four Picatinny rails. This model is available in a black or sand finish.

The safety is combined with the selector switch (safe, single shot and burst) and is ambidextrous with a rotation limited to 90 degrees. The weapon is equipped with a six position rear sight (100-600 m) and a protected front sight. Both are adjustable for elevations and windage and can be folded. Various optic or sighting devices can be installed on the upper Picatinny rail.

FN SCAR is gas operated with a short stroke piston. The gas port has two positions and one is used with a sound suppressor. The bolt is locked by a rotating head.

The gun can receive a 40mm FN 40 GL (U.S. MK 13 Mod. O) grenade launcher locked on the lower the Picatinny rail, without any contact with the barrel. Export versions developed by FN can receive a bayonet.

The FN SCAR was developed in two initial versions, each one of them is available with two barrels of various lengths that are easily interchangeable:

* FN SCAR L (light) or MK 16, 5.56x45mm, with 10 or 14.5 inch barrels,
* FN SCAR H (heavy) or MK 17, 7.62mm NATO, with 13, 16 or 20 inch barrels.

Several thousand were provided to the U.S. Army (USSOCOM). In France, 20 units were delivered to the Army Special Forces and the police. It has also been delivered to several other countries for evaluation.

The FN SCAR is light, well balanced and its collapsible stock is unlocked and locked easily to adjust the length according to needs. The weapon is also usable with the stock folded back. While the position of the ambidextrous selector is similar to that of the M16, it has a more reduced rotation. Barrels can be change by the user without it being necessary to call upon a gunsmith. The barrel is free-floating and the Picatinny rails are machined in the frame. Recoil is very light in the 5.56mm version. With the SCAR 7.62mm (which weighs only 300 grams (0.7 pound) more than the 5.56mm version), the recoil remains very moderate. The rate of fire is close to 600 rpm for both rifles. Additionally, there are no vibrations in the stock when the bolt recoils and there is little friction with moving parts.

MINIMI

The development of this machine gun began in the early 1970s in order to meet a new need created by the appearance of small bore assault rifles. After the adoption of 5.56×45 ammunition with bullet S 109 from FN (5.56mm NATO), the Minimi is a success with its performances being notably increased because of its ammunition.

Its manufacture, initially undertaken in Belgium, extended to other countries that include Australia, United States, Canada, South Korea, Italy, Greece, Taiwan and Japan.

The stock is fitted with a shoulder rest. The frame is of rectangular shape with the cocking lever on the right. The barrel can be easily replaced and is finished with a flash hider. The gas cylinder is located below. The moving parts are the piston, the bolt and its head. A folding bipod with telescopic legs is installed just behind the gas block. The stock, pistol grip and forend are made out of polymer. The frame and the heat shield are of sheet metal. The barrel, piston, bolt and its head, are of machined steel. The weapon receives a black finish.

The safety is ensured by a transverse push-button placed in top of the pistol grip, pushed from right to left, it allows shooting. It acts by blocking the trigger. There is no selector. The front sight, adjustable in height, is protected by a cover and the rear sight permits shooting from 200 1,200 meters. On the most recent versions, a Picatinny rail allows the assembly of an optic sight or any other device.

Feeding is possible by two means:

* Belt with metallic detachable links introduced of the left side. Their advance is ensured by a lever which moves a feeder. The belt can be placed in a box or bag.
* FNC or M16 magazines. No change is needed to use one or the other feeding methods because the bolt has two lugs to push the cartridges.

Since its appearance, this weapon has had many improvements. Now a Minimi MK 2 is manufactured, which has an ergonomic stock, a folding carrying handle, an optional hydraulic buffer installed, a stop for the cocking handle and the removal of the loading indicator.

Several models are available:

• MK 2, standard version without buffer
• MK 2 H, standard version with buffer (used in the United States as the MK 46)
• MK 2 Para, with short barrel, telescopic stock, without buffer
• MK 2 H Para, with short barrel, telescopic stock with buffer

Both models can receive a standard handguard or one with three rails.

Since 1980, the Minimi has been the subject of an adaptation in 7.62mm NATO. Initially received with little interest, the Minimi 7.62mm was adopted by U.S. SOCOM under the name of MK 48. This weapon takes the characteristics of Minimi MK 2 H and it is intended to bring to the soldier an increased firepower of short duration. Its practical range is approximately 800 m.

Other 7.62mm Minimi: variations are

• Standard version with fixed stock
• Para version with telescopic stock
• Three rail hand guard with fixed stock
• Three rails handguard with telescopic stock
• Both are fitted with a hydraulic buffer

The Minimi 5.56mm is light:, approximately 7 kg (approx. 15 lbs) with a 250-round cartridge bag. Although not having a selector, the flexibility of its trigger allows single shot shooting. Recoil is moderate and the shooting remains stable, even in standing position.

The Minimi 7.62mm is a little heavier, + 1 kg (2 lbs more) with a 100-round cartridge bag. The recoil, too, remains very reasonable regardless the position of the gunner.

MAG 58

MAG = Mitrailleuse à Gaz (Gas Machine Gun) ou Mitrailleuse d’Appui Général (General Purpose Machinegun).

At the request of Sweden, the research department of FN, under the direction of Ernest Vervier (1908-1986), developed in 1957 a general-purpose, simple and robust weapon. This particularly powerful model machine gun is a world success with more than 230,000 guns beings manufactured. It is built in Belgium, but also made in Sweden, United Kingdom, Israel, Brazil, India, United States, Argentina, Canada, Australia and Egypt. In 1977, it replaced several machine guns in service in the American Army where it is designated as the M240.

The fixed stock contains a buffer. The frame is made of two steel plates riveted on spacers and contains the piston, bolt, lock and the recoil spring. Above the receiver is the feeding device and under it the pistol grip with trigger and sear. The cocking lever is on the right. The gas cylinder is under the barrel, its gas block has an adjustable valve making it possible to vary the rate of fire (3 positions + 1 maxi). The barrel can be easily replaced and it is fitted with a handle to carry the gun or replace the barrel.

The safety is ensured by a transverse push-button placed in top of the pistol grip, pushed from right to left, it allows shooting. It acts by blocking of the trigger. There is no selector.

Sights are:

• Front sight with ears, adjustable; rear eyepiece tangent sight with cursor on steps (200-800 m) U notch and leaf
  (900-1,800 m)
• Most recent models have a Picatinny rail on the cover of the feed mechanism

This gun works with gas action, locked bolt and the bolt is opened before shooting. Locking is ensured by a mobile lock that drops under the action of the piston and takes support on a central hardened steel locking point. The striker is interdependent of the piston.

The weapon uses a collapsible bipod. It can also be fitted on a tripod or various other devices on vehicles, tanks, boats or aircraft.

The MAG undoubtedly represents one of the best of the universal machine guns since World War II: not too heavy, accurate, handy and easy to use. The regulator ensures its good performance under the worst of conditions. In spite of its power, the recoil remains very moderate. The firing device does not have a selector but short bursts of two rounds are possible. Its stability when shooting is remarkable.

40mm Grenade Launcher

We tested the 40mm grenade launcher as installed on the 5.56mm FN SCAR. The assembly of this accessory is carried out quickly and without tools. The locking points are conceived in such manner that no stress is imposed on the barrel. Loading is carried out by spiral rotation, then by advance of the barrel. Moreover, it can swivel to the right or left side for easy loading of extra long ammunition.

The trigger, in the shape of a ring, is located beneath the rifle’s trigger guard. Its opening is sufficiently broad to allow the firing with gloves.

The recoil impulse is slightly higher than that of shooting a ball cartridge. Shooting is very accurate with a probable hit in a one meter square target at 100 meters. The model that we tested was equipped with lateral left sights as chosen by the Americans. We find it is not very practical because the head position does not permit comfortable and quick shooting. FN has developed for its other customers another sighting system and proposes their Fire System Control (FCS) combining an optic sight, rangefinder and a device for programming of the explosion of grenades according to their trajectory.

Eurosatory 2008 was held at the Parc des Expositions, located outside of Paris, France on June 16 – 20, 2008. As one of the largest tradeshows in the world dedicated to the international arms trade, nearly 1.3 million square feet of exhibition space was filled by 1,180 exhibitors from 51 countries, including 127 exhibitors from the United States. Approximately 50,000 individuals from over 145 countries attended the show. Of note were several new product releases and market trends from well known and lesser known manufacturers.

Forjas Taurus S/A

Taurus S/A of Brazil (not to be confused with Taurus International, the U.S. based firearm company) introduced a new submachine gun manufactured under joint venture with FAMAE of Chile. Based upon technology from Swiss Arms AG (formerly SIG Arms AG) of Switzerland, the external profile borrows heavily from the SIG 550 series of firearms.

The model MT9 (chambered in 9mm) and the model MT40 (chambered in .40 S&W) utilizes a blowback design, and is capable of semiautomatic, burst, and fully automatic fire. The Taurus representatives indicated that the 9mm version has a cyclic rate of 1,300 rounds per minute, while the .40 S&W version fires at a claimed 1,200 rounds per minute. Both models utilize a 200 mm barrel (7.8 inches), and a 30-round magazine.

The receiver and internal components are reportedly manufactured by FAMAE of Chile, and imported into Brazil for the manufacture of barrels, magazines, and buttstocks prior to final assembly. Currently marketed to Brazilian law enforcement, the firearm appeared to be well designed and comfortable. Sales are currently limited to the South American market, and there are currently no plans to import either model into the United States. Additional information can be found at the Forjas Taurus S/A website, www.taurus.com.br.

ST Kinetics

ST Kinetics of Singapore introduced a new 9mm submachine gun called the Compact Personal Weapon. With a 7-inch barrel, the firearm utilizes delayed blowback operation, allowing a claimed cyclic rate of 900 rounds per minute. With a loaded 30-round magazine, the firearm weighs 2 kg (4.4 pounds). While not an overt copy of a Heckler and Koch MP-7, the CPW does appear to borrow heavily from the Heckler and Koch predecessor. Both utilize an outwardly similar design, with similar locations and layout of fire control mechanisms, and a similarly designed retracting stock.

Unlike the Heckler and Koch MP-7, the CPW claims caliber modularity, allowing users to change the caliber of the weapon by utilizing a different barrel and magazine. No caliber conversions were available for examination nor were specific caliber conversions specified.

ST Kinetics also introduced a single barreled, three-round 40mm grenade launcher allowing semi-automatic fire capability. The system is based upon the Metal Storm theory of operation, allowing all three rounds to be loaded within the barrel, yet allow each round to be fired individually. Adaptable to multiple applications, the launcher can be mounted under a combat rifle via M-1913 Picatinny rails, as a stand alone launcher, or grouped with multiple launchers and mounted on a heavy platform.

Reloading the 40mm grenade launcher is accomplished in two ways. According to ST Kinetics, individual rounds are loaded in a similar manner as conventional 40mm grenade launchers. Alternatively, a spent barrel can be removed and replaced with a pre-loaded barrel (loaded with three rounds per barrel) during the reloading process. ST Kinetics claims the new grenade launcher will act as a force multiplier, allowing an increased number of rounds down range in a shorter period of time, without increasing the number of weapons an individual soldier must carry. More information can be found at the Metal Storm website, at http://www.metalstorm.com.

FN Herstal

FN Herstal of Belgium announced that the SCAR family of rifles will be available for sale on the international market. Originally designed and developed for the U.S. Special Operations Command, the two highly adaptable modular rifles, the SCAR-L (chambered in 5.56x45mm), the SCAR-H (chambered in 7.62x51mm), and the FN40GL 40mm low velocity grenade launcher will presumably be available for international sale. No information was available from FNH, USA regarding a semiautomatic-only version for domestic U.S. sales. Additional information may be found on the FN Herstal website, located at http://www.fnherstal.com.

Martin Electronics, Inc.

Martin Electronics, Inc. (MEI) announced the introduction of the Mercury, a family of medium velocity 40mm grenades. Current low-velocity 40mm grenades have a maximum range of approximately 300 meters, while longer range high velocity 40mm grenades require a heavy firing platform, and are usually limited to vehicle or tripod mounted applications. The Mercury family of 40mm grenades can be launched from current low-velocity 40mm grenade launchers with only minimal increase in recoil, while extending maximum range to 800 meters.

Milkor South Africa

Milkor, most famously known for their 40mm Mk 1 multiple grenade launchers introduced a 40mm break action, single shot pistol for use with crowd control and less-lethal 40mm rounds. Developed from an existing Milkor-designed 37mm pistol, and equipped with a 130mm (5.1 inch) smooth bore barrel, the pistol is double-action only. Given the short barrel length, the effective range of the pistol is only 100 meters, but given the intended use as a riot control weapon, an extended range is not required. In terms of safety, high explosive 40mm rounds may be fired from the pistol, however the lack of barrel rifling will result in an HE round failing to arm. Why build a 40mm pistol? Representatives from Milkor indicated that in a riot control situation, the user would have the ability to fire less-lethal ammunition and holster the pistol. In this manner, the 40mm pistol would be less cumbersome that a larger rifle sized weapon of equal caliber. It is unknown as of press time whether Milkor-USA will offer the 40mm pistol to U.S. customers. Additional information may be found at the Milkor website, www.milkor.net.

Developments in 20mm rifles

Multiple man-portable 20mm anti-material rifles were present, with two worthy of note. First, Truvelo Manufacturing of South Africa introduced a 20mm x 110 (20mm Hispano-Suiza) caliber bolt action rifle. Known most notably as the manufacturer of the Neostad shotgun, Truvelo claims its rifle is accurate to within 2.5 minutes-of-angle, allowing users to hit a 15-inch radius target at 600 yards. Reportedly weighing in at 55 pounds, the rifle has a retail price of $36,000.

Similarly, the Republic of Croatia also introduced a partially recoilless 20mm x 110 caliber bolt action rifle. Weighing 17 kg (37.5 pounds) the rifle utilizes a gas port to vent and direct propellant gases to the rear of the shooter. Overall length totals 133 cm, (52 inches) and has a claimed maximum range of 2 km (1.24 miles). Additional information on this rifle was not available as of press time.

Tsniitochmash Central Institute of Precision Machinery

Tsniitochmash of Russia displayed a modified Russian PKM machine gun, re-named the Pecheneg Light Machine Gun. Like its PKM predecessor, the Pecheneg is chambered in 7.62x54R, but boasts a re-designed barrel equipped with cooling fins. According to Tsniitochmash representatives, the newly designed cooling fins are highly efficient, greatly increasing the number of rounds that can be fired, and eliminating the need for a spare barrel. The Pecheneg weighs 17 pounds empty, and is capable of firing 600 rounds per minute, and has an effective range of 1,500 meters.

Tsniitochmash also displayed the famed Russian SPP-1M underwater pistol and APS underwater assault rifle. Representatives explained that both models were again in production, and available for worldwide sale. See Small Arms Review Vol. 12, No. 2, November 2008 for an in-depth review on the Tsniitochmash underwater guns. Additional information can be found at www.Tsniitochmash.ru

Vinghog Simrad Optronics Group

Known for their light-weight weapon mounts, Vinghog AS of Norway demonstrated the IS2000, an integrated programmable range finder, ballistic computer, and weapon sight in a single package. Intended for 40mm AGL and .50 caliber weapon platforms, the weapon sight allows users to effectively compute distance to target, while automatically adjusting the aiming point for range, elevation, and lead angle correction. The system is night-vision compatible, with either 1-power or 3.5-power magnification. At 3.5 power magnification, the system provides an eleven-degree field of view. Datum for multiple types of ammunition is provided within the system, providing accurate aiming points for nearly any type of ammunition that may be encountered.

Demonstration of the unit confirmed the robust and accurate nature of the system. Mounted on an Mk-19 40mm automatic grenade launcher, the system effectively provided the range to a steel silhouette target placed approximately 350 meters from the firing line. With point of aim automatically adjusted within the sight, the aiming point was placed center of target, resulting in a first round hit on the silhouette. Recognizing that the Mk-19 is usually intended as an area target weapon, the Vinghog sight allowed for effective use of the Mk-19 in a point target application. Additional information may be found online at www.vinghog.com.

Pakistan Ordnance Factory

Pakistan Ordnance Factory (more commonly known in the U.S. as “POF”) introduced two new rifles for international sale. Each rifle appears to utilize a Heckler and Koch Model 91 type receiver, with magazines modified for each the appropriate caliber in each application. Both rifles claim parts commonality with the Heckler and Koch MP-5 and G-3 rifles.

The PK-7, chambered in 7.62 x 39 is a near copy of an early Heckler and Koch model 52. Equipped with a 10.5-inch barrel, the weapon utilizes a thirty-round curved magazine, with outward appearances to a Kalashnikov-based magazine. Both rifle and magazine appeared to be robust, with a claimed loaded weight of 8 pounds. The PK-7 utilizes a 30-round magazine, and has a 700 – 800 round per minute claimed rate of fire.

The PK-8 rifle is chambered in 5.56×45 NATO (.223 Remington), with a 700 round per minute claimed rate of fire. Unlike the Heckler and Koch Model 93 rifle, the PK-8 presents a novel approach to converting an existing G-3 type receiver to fire the smaller 5.56 round. From outward appearances, the PK-8 is very similar to the Heckler and Koch Model 93, complete with two push pins for disassembly. Upon closer examination, the PK-8 magazine is a unique magazine to the weapon system, utilizing a hybrid design of the G-3 upper magazine contour and the HK-93 lower magazine contour. Typical HK-93 magazines will not lock into place on the PK-8, while typical G-3 magazines will not reliably feed 5.56 rounds. While novel in approach, the new design is not a quick change caliber conversion. Rather, the PK-8 appears to allow the manufacture of a 5.56 rifle while utilizing existing tooling intended for the manufacture of the G-3 rifle.

Representatives from POF expressed an interest in exporting a semiautomatic version of both rifles to the United States, however at the time of the interview no U.S. imports were scheduled or planned.

Eurosatory 2008 was a great success, and offered a glimpse into the international arms market. Hosted on a biennial basis, the next show is scheduled for June 14 – 18, 2010, in Paris, France. Additional information regarding the show can be found at www.eurosatory.com.

There have been relatively few attempts to introduce new heavy machine gun cartridges since the end of the Second World War. The main reason for this is that many of the roles formerly carried out by these guns have been taken over by cannon of 20mm or larger calibre, while their remaining tasks can be adequately carried out by the existing rounds. However, that has not stopped several manufacturers from experimenting, usually with new technology which possesses some theoretical advantages. The first two considered here are, however, conventional: the BRG rounds from Fabrique Nationale of Herstal, Belgium.

15×115 FN

Having observed that armoured personnel carriers and other light AFVs were acquiring thicker armour as protection against .50/12.7mm AP rounds, FN decided to develop a more powerful HMG to give NATO an equivalent to the Russian 14.5mm KPV. The gun, designated the BRG-15, was a gasoperated, dual-feed design, and it was first chambered for a cartridge made by necking down the 20×110 Hispano case to create the 15×115. However, this experienced difficulties with barrel wear and inaccuracy, so it was decided to replace the cartridge with a new design; the 15.5x 106.

15.5×106 FN

For the new BRG-15 cartridge it was decided to abandon the conventional jacketed bullet design and replace it with slightly larger-calibre projectiles using a cannonstyle separate driving (rotating) band made of plastic. It was also decided to adopt an entirely new case, this time based on theRussian 14.5×114. This is wider than the Hispano case, so it was possible to shorten it while still retaining the same ballistics, resulting in the 15.5×106. Despite all of this work, the project was shelved in 1991.

Several attempts have been made to simplify ammunition and gun design in the postwar period. These have included various shapes of caseless rounds, and “folded” cartridges with the bullet alongside the propellant. Three of the more practical efforts are described below.

.50 Dardick Tround

This system was developed by David Dardick in the 1950s, and was aimed at simplifying the gun feeding mechanism. The basic idea was to push the cartridges sideways into an open chamber instead of lengthwise into a closed one. Three of these chambers were formed on the outside of a revolving cylinder; at any given moment, one round was being loaded, the second fired and the third ejected. The cylinder was partly surrounded by a fixed sleeve; this left two chambers open for loading and ejection, but supported the round being fired by providing the third side of the chamber.

This would not have worked with a conventional cartridge case, so each round was entirely surrounded by a plastic case with three slightly rounded sides. This not only provided a close fit with the supporting chamber walls, but also added strength to make up for the lack of a solid chamber. The description “triangular round” was shortened to Tround.

Most of the initial effort was in small arms with a few examples being made for commercial sale, but these were not successful and production stopped in the 1960s. However, interest in larger-calibre automatic versions continued, mainly because the short cartridge movements involved in chambering and ejection permit a very smooth action with an extremely high rate of fire. Experiments with a .50 calibre Tround MG continued into the 1990s, but did not result in a production gun.

.50 Hughes Lockless

A different approach to the same problem was tried by Hughes in the 1970s. They also developed a gun with a sideways-loading chamber, although in this case the chamber was fixed while the surrounding sleeve moved. The ammunition was in the form of a flat box, which was slotted into the chamber from the side; the shape led it to be dubbed the “chiclet”. Before firing, the loading and ejection ports were covered by a sliding sleeve to complete the chamber. The next round to be c h a m b e r e d pushed the fired case out of the ejection port. This layout led to a very simple gun mechanism, and ammunition was made in calibres from 5.56mm to 30mm, but again without any production being achieved.

The cartridge is interesting because it is of the “telescoped” type; the propellant is packed around the bullet instead of behind it, leading to a much shorter cartridge. Ignition takes place in two stages. The primer first ignites a small quantity of propellant; just enough to drive the bullet up into the bore and thereby seal the chamber. The movement of the bullet exposes holes connecting with the main body of the propellant, which then ignites to drive the bullet from the barrel. The expansion space left by the bullet on its initial movement means thatthe propellant can be packed in tightly, allowing the case to be very compact.

.50 ARES TARG

This was another telescoped round, although with a more conventional cylindrical shape and designed for a very different type of gun action. The TARG (Telescoped Automatic Revolver Gun) was of the conventional single-barrel revolving cylinder type, as the name suggests. The cylinder had four chambers and, as with the Hughes Lockless, ejection occurred when the next round to be chambered pushed the fired case out of the chamber. The project commenced in 1989 and resulted in a light and compact machine gun, but it was cancelled in the late 1990s when ARES was acquired by the AAI Corporation.

In HMGs, as with small arms, much work on producing designs to use advanced ammunition concepts has failed to result in any production contracts. However, it seems unlikely that this will always be the case. The US Army is experimenting once more with telescoped ammunition (both plastic cased and caseless) in the Lightweight Small Arms Technologies (LSAT) programme, while the British and French are bidding to introduce 40mm cased telescoped ammunition in the CTWS (Cased Telescoped Weapon System) for future use in light armoured fighting vehicles. We have not yet reached the end of the development of the heavy machine gun cartridge.

Small Arms Review gets an exclusive first look at Colt Defense’s three entries into the United States Special Operations Commands SCAR (Special operation forces Combat Assault Rifle) Program.

In Small Arms Review Vol. 8 No. 10, July 2005, SAR readers got the first in-depth look at the United States Special Operations Command new SCAR (Special operation forces Combat Assault Rifle) that is manufactured by FN Herstal, Belgium and soon to be produced in their Columbia, South Carolina facility. This weapon was but one of many that was tested in the competition. Some never made it through the minimum requirements and were eliminated prior to the first cartridge being fired.

The M4 has been, and remains to this day, the standard issue weapon for SOCOM. Complaints about the M4 surfaced within SOCOM and SOCOM conceded that they were using their M4s beyond the intent of the mil-standard, especially through extensive firing and lack of maintenance. Clearly these carbines were not meant to serve as a light machine gun or to have countless thousands of rounds fired through them without replacement of bolts and barrels. To complicate things further, the configuration of the M4A1 is controlled by the Army and not by SOCOM. This compromised the ability of Colt to make modifications to deal with SOCOM concerns due to the fact that the Army would have to authorize the changes. The Army was happy with the weapons and saw no need for changes. SOCOM clearly needed their own weapon where they were the customer and could modify and improve it at will at their own accord.

Solutions to the issues surrounding the alleged lack of lethality of the 5.56mm round include a heavier 5.56mm round or a new caliber. Whether in the M4A1 or SCAR (both have 14-1/2 inch barrels), the performance of the 5.56mm rounds will be the same. Reports indicate that the MK262 round is a significant improvement in accuracy and lethality over the M855 round, and, if adopted, would be a relatively easy fix and will function the same in either weapon.

As stated in the earlier article, SOCOM wanted an operator-envisioned weapon that would address these concerns. In September of 2003, an Operations Requirement Document was issued and the request was open to any contractor. In November the performance specifications were released by SOCOM. These called for two weapons. The first being the SCAR L (Light), a 5.56x45mm NATO caliber weapon and a SCAR H (Heavy), a 7.62x51mm weapon. Both models would have “future enhanced calibers” which would allow them to be adaptable to calibers such as 5.45x39mm, 7.62x39mm and possibly the 6.8 SPC, to just name a few.

Three of the finalists were submissions by Colt Defense. Information indicates that these weapons came in 2nd, 3rd and 4th in the competition. The reason(s) why one was picked over the others is unknown at this point due to SOCOM not publicly discussing other contractors’ weapons. SAR had the opportunity to visit Colt Defense and get a first hand look at their entries. The weapons observed were not museum grade weapons but the actual weapons used in testing. Traces of salt were visible from the salt water testing and the barrels were clearly worn. This in-depth look will be conducted in a two-part series. This first installment is on types A and B, Colt’s traditional direct gas impingement weapons. Part 2 will introduce Colt’s first piston driven weapon, the Type C.

Type A

The Type A SCAR rifle submitted by Colt utilized the traditional M16/M4 direct gas impingement operating system. Although it was pretty clear SOCOM was looking for a piston driven system, the combat proven direct gas system was a viable and reliable system for consideration.

The gas is tapped from the barrel under the front sight base and is bled off into a gas tube that runs back into the upper receiver directly into the bolt carrier. The expansion chamber is located in the rear of the bolt carrier between the rear of the bolt and the front of the inside of the carrier. This creates a hammer-like blow that drives the carrier rearward unlocking the bolt, extracting and ejecting the fired cartridge case. The spring loaded buffer is compressed on its rearward movement and then drives the bolt carrier group forward stripping a cartridge off the top of the magazine, feeding, chambering and finally locking the bolt into the barrel extension. This system lightens the weapon due to no heavy gas piston as well as increases the accuracy of the weapon by not impeding on the natural vibrations/harmonics of the barrel during firing. With the addition of a free-floating hand guard, the M16/M4 weapon systems are capable of match grade accuracy.

The Upper Receiver

The Type A rifle utilizes a Colt designed one-piece upper receiver. The Mil-Std 1913 rail runs from the rear of the receiver up to the front sight assembly. Additionally, rails run at 3, 6 and 9 o’clock on the hand guard. The barrel is left free floating to increase accuracy but, more importantly, to aid in cooling of the weapon. Accuracy is greatly improved due to nothing impeding on the barrel’s natural vibrations. During extensive fully automatic firing, the barrel is kept cooler longer and the use of vertical pistol grips and SOPMOD accessories such as optics will not put stress on the barrel causing it to droop or bend under extreme firing conditions. This one piece upper decreases the weight as well from using tradition rail systems such as the ARMS SIR system or the Knight Armament Company RAS systems and is also less bulky. The Colt upper receiver has a removable 6 o’clock rail for the installation of a grenade launcher and cleaning under the front of the upper receiver.

Both upper and lower receivers utilized a Kal-Guard finish in a “flat earth” or coyote brown finish as required in the specifications. The upper receiver utilizes the standard fired cartridge case deflector of the M16A2 and M4 family of weapons as well as the forward assist assembly. Also, the traditional ejection port dust cover is used to prevent unwanted dust and debris from entering the weapon.

The Backup Iron Sight

A universal component for Types A and C is the backup iron sight. This originally came from the M4 detachable carrying handle. The carrying handle is removed leaving only the rear sight. This sight looks similar to the Lewis Machine and Tool backup sight but is leaner and has less bulk. The backup iron sight has both windage and elevation adjustments. The elevation is adjustable from 3 to 600 meters. The flip-up “L” shaped aperture has two sights. One is for 0-200 meters and the other is for longer ranges.

The Folding Front Sight

The folding front sight assembly is mounted to the front sight base. This front sight assembly is universal on the Type A and B. Type C will utilize the same sight but a much different front sight base. The front sight is locked in place with a button on the left hand side. The front sight post is the standard square front sight that is adjustable for elevation only.

The Barrel

As per specification, two barrel lengths were required by SOCOM. The first is the standard 14-1/2 inch barrel and then a 10-1/2 inch CQC (Close Quarter Combat) barrel. Types A, B and C all came in two different barrel lengths. Due to the simplicity and cost, the Colt system changed barrels by simply popping open the rear and front takedown pins, pulling the complete upper receiver off and the replacing it with the other. This change is completed in seconds.

The barrels are both the mil-spec 1 turn in 7 inch twist button-rifled barrels. As per SCAR specs, the barrels all must be proof tested and then magnetic particle inspected for stress fractures and then marked accordingly on the barrel (C MP 5.56 NATO 1/7). Both barrels are heavy barrels all the way through. This was necessary to achieve the sustained fire rates requested by SOCOM and are very similar to the Rock Island designed M4A1 heavy barrel. The flash suppressor, as required by specification, is the Knight’s Armament Company Quick Detach compensator for the silencer. The barrels all have chrome lined bore and chambers. During the development stages, many barrel configurations were considered including stainless steel and hammer forged barrels. The barrels are finished in the same color as the receivers.

Modifications were made to the chamber to deal with the Over-The-Beach requirement. These were modifications that were proposed to the XM4 in the developing stages but not wanted by Rock Island Arsenal.

The Lower Receiver

The lower receiver assembly is the one component that is universal on Types A, B and C. There is no difference. The lower receiver, stock and buffer extension are painted in the required Flat Earth finish.

The chosen stock is manufactured by VLTOR and has two compartments, one on each side of the top of the stock that can hold batteries for optical sights. The standard buffer extension is used which allows four positions for the stock to extend. A sling mount plate is inserted between the buffer extension locking ring and the lower receiver, which allows a sling to be mounted to either the left or right side. The buffer utilized is Colt’s H2 buffer. This buffer contains one steel weight along with two tungsten weights. This was necessary due to the use of heavy barrels. This was a lesson learned when Rock Island Arsenal developed the heavy barrel for SOCOM and implemented the change without trial. The M4A1 carbines began malfunctioning in the field with light strikes caused by bolt carrier bounce. The change in the barrel affected the carbine’s dynamics and the solution was the replacement of one steel weight with one tungsten weight.

One of the most interesting changes to the lower receiver is the newly designed selector lever. Unlike the standard lever in which Safe is at 9 o’clock, Semi at 12 o’clock and Auto at 3 o’clock, the lever has been changed to where the Safe is at 5 o’clock, Semi at 3 o’clock and Auto at 1 o’clock. This was a change based on SOCOM’s requirement for the selector to operate over 90 degrees of travel (as opposed to the Colt standard of 180 degrees). In the end, this change was not liked. The selector lever is ambidextrous as per SOCOM specifications

The fire control selector is not the only ambidextrous part. The magazine release is the patented Norgon ambidextrous magazine release. Ambidextrous controls were required in the specifications. The charging handle in its original design is ambidextrous. The bolt catch remains on the left side only. Additional enhancement was that the hammer/trigger pins are made from stainless steel to increase service life.

The Bolt Carrier Group

The bolt carrier group on Type A and B are the same as the standard M4A1. As per SOCOM specification, the bolts were test fired with a 70,000 psi proof load and then magnetic particle inspected for stress fractures. The carriers are manganese phosphate finished and utilize the heavy extractor spring and buffer.

Type B

The Type B differs from Type A in two major ways. First, it uses a standard M4 upper receiver rather than the newly developed one-piece upper receiver. Second, is the addition of the ARMS, Inc. SIR (Selected Integrated Rail) system. The SIR system used was their #58-MOD.

The SIR system is a free-floating hand guard that attaches both to the barrel nut as well as the rail on top of the upper receiver. In essence, there is a protective sleeve that goes nearly all the way across the rail on the upper receiver. With nothing mounting to the barrel, the barrel is left to free float having the same effect in accuracy and heat control as the one-piece upper of Type A. This system provides a constant full-length rail from the rear of the receiver to the rear of the front sight assembly. Accessory rails may be mounted in various lengths to the left, right and bottom of the SIR system. The bottom grip of the SIR system may be removed for installation of a grenade launcher.

At the rear of the receiver is the ARMS, Inc. #40L back up sight which folds and has both long and short-range apertures. The sight is spring loaded and held closed by a lever. To engage the rear sight, one only need to pull rearward on the lever and the sight pops up and engages and immediately you are looking through the long-range sight. By flipping down the rear aperture, the larger short range aperture is engaged.

Due to the additional weight of the SIR system, the weight is slightly heavier on the Type B weighing in at 7.66 pounds in the carbine variation and 6.48 pounds in the CQC configuration.

Mechanical specifications are the same for Type A and B. The only departure was the use of the SIR system rather than a one-piece upper receiver. The only advantage to Type B is the ability to change out rail systems at will and parts commonality with the M4A1. The same front sight system is used as well as lower receiver and bolt group.

Conclusions

After careful inspection of both models in Colt’s model shop, Colt Product Development Engineer Art Daigle took me down to the engineering test range at Colt. Then he brought out a very large bin of loaded 30-round magazines. More than 500 rounds were fired between both models with no malfunctions of any sort encountered. The guns that were examined were guns that were actually tested by SOCOM during the trials. They were somewhat beat up and the remnants from the salt water testing was present. The rifling was quite worn and the guns were not clean nor was there any lubrication on them, due to Colt’s use of UCT Defense Ultra Chem. The ammunition used was Black Hills commercial 77-grain open tip match bullet; the commercial equivalent to the Mk262 MOD1 ammunition.

Coming up next month in Part 2 of the Colt SCAR program is Type C version. This is Colt’s submission of their own designed piston operated carbine. We will look closely at what might possibly become the next generation M4 carbine.

Although the Mk 46 Mod 0 superficially resembles FN’s Para and SPW Models, it is again different from these Minimi versions. The modifications to the Mk 46 Mod 0 reduced its weight by 3.9 lbs in comparison to a standard M249. The major differences between the Mk 46 Mod 0 and the standard M249 are as follows:

• The Mk 46 Mod 0 barrel is much shorter than that of the M249.
• The Mk 46 Mod 0 lacks the magazine feed of the M249.
• There is no provision for vehicle or tripod mounting.
• The gas regulation system has been eliminated and replaced with a simplified “monobloc” system.
• There are MIL-STD-1913 rails atop the receiver and a rail system is fitted to the handguard for mounting accessories.
• The Mk 46 Mod 0 flash suppressor is identical to that of the M4 SOPMOD Carbine. This flash suppressor accepts standard military issue noise suppressors (silencers).
• The carrying handle has been eliminated.
• The Mk 46 Mod 0 is Teflon coated for corrosion resistance and to provide dry lubrication.
• The rear sling attachment point has been moved forward to facilitate “across the chest” carry.

We visited FN Manufacturing in Columbia, South Carolina to test fire the Mk46 and were very favorably impressed with the latest addition to the US military’s small arms inventory. Eliminating the requirement for magazine feed apparently significantly increased the reliability of the FN light machine gun. We did not experience a single stoppage while firing approximately 1,000 rounds of ammunition. Changing belts was as simple as sliding a new container into place and positioning the new belt in the feed tray. As mentioned, there is no provision to manually remove the barrels; they will simply be dropped under operational conditions.

Firing the Mk 46 was uneventful and thus quite enjoyable, although muzzle blast was pronounced, as can be expected from any short barreled weapon. Since the Mk 46 is equipped to accept the Navy’s standard suppressor, (From Knight’s Armament Company), however, this probably will not be an operational problem, as the gun will almost certainly be deployed with suppressor in place. The Mk 46 was easy to control; bursts were easily kept in the five to seven round range and muzzle rise was minimal. Although fieldstripping is somewhat lengthy in terms of the number of steps involved, the task is actually quite simple in practice.

In sum, our time spent with the new Mark 46 version of FN’s MINIMI was a very pleasant experience. The gun was lightweight, simple and easy to use and absolutely reliable during our brief experience with it. It seems that the U.S. Navy has a winner!