The original design had some interesting features. The straight line layout allows the operating rod and buffer to run right back into the butt and reduce some of the overall length. The large forehand grip is most convenient for carrying at the hip and the folded bipod legs continue the hand protection almost up to the muzzle. The gun can be striped using a live round as a tool.

This weapon is the Army's general purpose machine gun which entered the service in the 50s. It is lightweight and easy to carry. The M-60 is considered to be a "crew served" weapon which means that it is operated by two soldiers: one the gunner and one the assistant. It produces a low "grunting" sound and is aptly called a "pig" by the Rangers.

		Cartridge: 7.62 X 51 mm NATO Operation: gas, automatic Locking: rotating bolt Feed: disintegrating link belt Weight: 11.1 kg Length: overall, 1.105 m Barrel: excl flash hider, 560 mm Rifling: 43 grooves, rh, 1 twist in 305 mm Sights: fore, fixed blade; rear, u-notch Sight radius: 540 mm Muzzle velocity: 853 m/s Rate of fire: cyclic, 500-650 rds/min; practical 200 rds/min Max range: 3,750 m; (effective) bipod, 1,100 m; tripod 1,800 m

		Saco Defense

Source(s): Jane's Infantry Weapons, 24th Edition 1998-99; Philadelphia Online: Blackhawk Down