DFX TECHNOLOGY M240 The M240 is the American version of the classic MAG (Mitrailleuse d'Appui General = General Purpose Machinegun), which had been developed by the famous Belgian company FN Herstal in the 1950s, as a true universal machine gun, that could be used as a light MG on bipod, as a medium MG on tripod or as a vehicle-mounted and coaxial MG on helicopters, armored cars and tanks. The basic design of the MAG is no more than a time-proven Browning action, taken from the M1918 BAR automatic rifle, turned upside down and adopted for belt feed. The basic design used as many steel stampings and pressings as possible to save the labor and costs, and the final gun had an angular, but very business-like appearance. By no way a beauty, it is extremely reliable and proven design, that has seen widespread service, being adopted by several tens of armies around the world, including Belgian, British, Australian, Canadian, USA and many other armies. It is fitted to various vehicles, helicopters, tanks etc. So far it is one of the most popular GPMG's in the world. The M240 is a gas operated, belt fed, air cooled automatic weapon. It uses a long piston stroke gas system with the gas regulator located below the barrel. The bolt is locked using a swinging shoulder that engages the cut in the floor of the receiver. The air-cooled barrel is quick-detachable, with the carrying handle attached to it to help handling of the hot barrel. The receiver is made from steel stampings. The M240 is fed using disintegrating steel belts of various lengths. The rate of fire can be selected between "low" (~650 rpm) and "high" (~950 rpm), depending on the tactical situation, and the gun can be fired in full auto only. Links Manufacturer