M 249 LIGHT MACHINE GUN.

LESSON NO. 1.

a. General description
b. Safety precaution
c. Stripping and assembling

AIM: To describe the weapon, teach the safety precautions and how to strip and assemble
the gun.

TIMING. Two (2) forty minute periods.

METHOD. A basic instructional period

STORES AND AIDS

M249 light machine gun - 1 per three soldiers

Drill rounds belted - 20 per gun minimum
Ammunition boxes - 1 per gun
Tables. 1.8288m.(six feet) - 1 per gun

PREPARATION

a. Position a gun, and scraper tool on each table

b. Carry out the following actions on the gun selected for demonstration

(1) Check the retaining pin on the rear of the receiver if is a captured pin it is not to be
removed.

MISCELLANEOUS

a. Number the squad in groups of three and allocate one group per gun prior to normal
safety.

b. Place one drill round by each gun after NSP.

c. Use initial order for the commencement of each practice stage ,(ie) normal
safety precautions-no#1's out and thereafter call out change , explain this system of control
prior to the first practice stage.

d. Emphasize the drill for checking for an obstruction in the barrel assembly.

e. Ensure that as parts are stripped they are put in a clean place.

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f. When handling the various parts, the instructor is to name them and their purpose.
However, at this stage, the soldier is not expected to memorize all names.

g. Emphasize that stripping and assembling should be carried out with reasonable care
and never practiced against time.

PRELIMINARIES

SAFETY PRECAUTIONS - Inspect all Guns, Belts, Drill Rounds and Pouches.

REVISION - NIL

INTRODUCTION -

EXPLAIN : The M249 light Machine Gun is the main fire support of the infantry man's
section . A knowledge of the gun, its associated parts and Safety Procedures provide the
soldier with the basics required to understand all that is taught to him regarding the gun.
The soldier is tested in his ability to strip and assemble the gun as for daily cleaning.

DESCRIPTION

EXPLAIN

a. The 5.56 mm Machine Gun is primarily used as a light machine gun fired from a
Bipod. It has a Tripod with a T & E mechanism and a spare barrel.

b. It is fully automatic , belt and magazine-fed, gas operated weapon that fires from the
open bolt position. It is simple in construction, easy to learn and fire. Stoppages are rare
and can easily and quickly remedied.

c. The weapon is air cooled.

d. The belts are of disintegrating split links, factory filled packed in 200 round belt boxes
and belted one tracer to four ball.

e. Ammunition is fed into the weapon from a 200-rounds ammunition box.

f. As an emergency means of feeding, the M249 can use a 20 or 30 round M16 rifle
magazine, but this will increase the chance of stoppages.

g. The Bipod legs can be folded and locked.

h. The maximum range is 3,600 metres.

i. Barrels must not be interchanged with those from other M249s unless the
headspace has been set for that weapon by an armourer.

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j. It can be fired from the shoulder, hip or underarm position.

SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

EXPLAIN AND DEMONSTRATE

Open the top cover latches, cock the gun by pulling the cooking handles fully to the
rear, then push forward until a distinctive click is heard, lift the Feed Tray. Inspect:

(1) The feed pawls assembly and inspect the chambers.

(2) The feed tray assembly.
(3) Lift the feed tray assembly and inspect the chamber.
(4) Check the space between the bolt assembly and chambers
(a) Insert two fingers of the left hand in the magazine well to extract any
ammunition or brass.

(b) Lower the feed tray and close the top cover , hold the cocking handle press
the trigger and allow the working part to go forward under control.
(c) These action are always to be carried out before the weapon is stripped.

Confirm by practice

STRIPPING AND ASSEMBLING THE BUTTSTOCK, BUFFER ASSEMBLY

GROUP AND OPERATING ROD

EXPLAIN AND DEMONSTRATE

To strip -The Butt stock and buffer assembly group.

Test the gun to make certain the working parts are forward. Pull the upper restraining
pin at the rear of the receiver to the left. Allow the Butt stock to pivot downward and
place it on a surface to support the weapon for disassembly.

(a) Operating Rod group. To release the operating rod assembly from the
positioning grooves inside the receiver hold the weapon with one hand and butt stock
assembly and use the thumb of the other hand to push in and upward on the rear of the
operating rod assembly.

(b) Pull the operating rod and spring from the receiver group and separate the
parts.

(c) Hold the Butt stock assembly with your left hand to stabilize the weapon.
With your right hand pull the cocking handle to the rear to lock the bolt. Return the
cocking handle to the rear to lock the bolt. Return the cocking handle to the forward
position. Place a finger on the face of the bolt and push until your finger makes contact

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 with the bridge at the end of the receiver. This leaves the piston, slide and bolt
assemblies exposed.

(d) Hold the slide assembly while pulling the moving parts out of the rear of the
receiver.

(e) To separate the operating rod group, hold the piston assembly in one hand,
Place your other hand on the bolt assembly, and rotate the bolt to disengage the bolt
from the slide assembly. Remove the firing pin spring from the firing pin, but be
careful not to break the spring. If the spring sticks rotate it clockwise to free it. The
weapon will function without the spring however this weakens the firing action . To
separate the slide assembly from the piston, press the retaining pin at the rear of the
slide assembly to the left and lift the slide assembly . To complete removing the butt
stock and buffer assembly use a cartridge or the spring guide rod to push the lower
most restraining pin on the rear of the receiver to the left it is a captured pin, it is not
removed. Remove the butt stock and shoulder assembly by pulling it rearward while
supporting the trigger mechanism.

TO ASSEMBLE

The Operating Rod Group: Hold the piston in one hand with the face of the piston
facing outwards and the sear notches piston facing downwards. With the other hand,
place the slide assembly onto the rear of the piston with the firing pin towards the front of
the piston (Check the slide assembly retaining pin to make sure it is out).

1. Push the slide assembly retaining pin to the right. This locks the piston
assembly and slide assembly together.

2. Put the firing pin spring on the firing pin of the slide assembly. Place the bolts on
the slide assembly, aligning the driving lug of the belt with the slot of the slide assembly.
Apply pressure to the faces of the bolt to compress the firing pin spring. Then, rotate
the bolt to hook the driving lug into the slide assembly. Open the cover assembly on
the receiver . Insert the face of the piston into the receiver, aligning the bolt lug unto
the receiver rails. Pull the trigger and push the moving parts forward until the bolt is
seated in the chamber.

3. Place the operating rod tip into the operating rod spring, then, insert the free end
of the operating rod and spring into the rear of the piston. Depress the rear of the
operating rod assembly until the two lugs on the buffer are positioned in the receiver
grooves.

4. Pivot the Butt stock upward into position and push the upper retaining pins to the
right, locking the butt stock to the receiver.

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 To Test- Always, after assembly, test the gun for correct assembly by cocking it and
pressing the trigger easing the bolt forward to prevent it from slamming into the
chamber area and damaging the face of the bolt.

STRIPPING AND ASSEMBLING THE BARREL GROUP

Explain and Demonstrate(To Strip)

1. The barrel group consists of barrel, heat shield ,flash suppressor, front sight,
gas regulator, and gas regulator collar. To remove the barrel from the receiver,
close the cover and feed mechanism assembly. Depress the barrel locking lever
with your left hand, lift the carrying handle using your right hand to push the barrel
forward. To remove the heat shield facing away from your body, place the index
fingers of each hand inside the chamber use your thumb to push up on the top clip.

2. Raise the feed cover

3. To remove the gas regulator and collar, rotate the collar pin out of the notch.
Place the tip of the scraper with the concave side facing the pin of collar inside
the notch (be careful not to use too much pressure , so as not to break the tip of the
scraper) Rotate the collar counter clockwise over the concave portion of the tip on
the scraper and past the notch until the collar slides off.

TO ASSEMBLE

The Gas Regulator . Insert the gas regulator into the gas block and align the notch on the
gas regulator with the notch of the gas block. With the gas regulator Installed and
supported on a firm surface place the gas regulator collar onto the protruding end of the
body and align the spring with the stud. Push the gas regulator collar downwards firmly
and rotate it until it slips into place.

The Barrel- Depress the barrel locking lever to the rear with your left hand, while
holding the carrying handle with your right hand, pull the barrel rearwards and push
downwards , align the gas regulator with the gas cylinder and lock it, by releasing the
barrel locking lever. Check the barrel to ensure it is locked into the receiver by pulling or
lifting on the carrying handle. Check the barrel locking lever. Check the barrel to
ensure it is locked into the receiver by pulling or lifting on the carrying handle. Replace
the heat shield by pacing the hook end of the heat shield under the front sight post and
press down until the clamps lock on the barrel.

STRIPPING THE HAND GUARD GROUP

The Hand Guard Group consists of the hand guard , retaining pin, and cleaning equipment
retaining clip. Push the hand guard retaining pin to the left using a cartridge or a spring
guide rod; then pull the hand guard down.

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TO ASSEMBLE

Place the hand guard on the receiver from the bottom and push it to the rear until it stops.
Using the guide rod push the hand guard retaining pin to the right, which locks the hand
guard into position, push the hand guard down to make sure it is locked.

STRIPPING THE TRIGGER MECHANISM GROUP

To separate the trigger group push in on the lowermost retaining pin.

TO ASSEMBLE.

Align the trigger mechanism with the slot on the bottom of the receiver hold the trigger
mechanism in position to accomplish the next step.

STRIPPING THE GAS CYLINDER GROUP

To remove the gas cylinder from the receiver grasp the cylinder at the top of the bipod legs
turn it to the left or right to release the locking spring, and then pull it away from receiver.

TO ASSEMBLE

Push the gas cylinder through the bipod yoke into the receiver. Push the cylinder to the
rear while countering the pressure of the locking spring and guiding the end of the cylinder
into the receiver with the other hand applying downward pressure. Position the recess in
the cylinder near the spring, turn the cylinder until the spring clicks into the recess at the
rear of the gas cylinder

STRIPPING THE BIPOD GROUP

Once the gas cylinder is removed, remove the bipod group by pulling it away from the
receiver. Once the bipod is removed, the part remaining is the receiver group, and
disassembly is complete.

TO ASSEMBLE.

Place the bipod group on the receiver group with the bipod legs open and pointed
downward.

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CONFIRM BY PRACTICE

NB. The gun is now stripped sufficiently for cleaning purposes. Carry out further
practice, leaving the gun assembled.

EXPLAIN AND DEMONSTRATE . In battle when the tactical situation permits, if the
gun is normally stripped completely for cleaning, but for other purposes, such as renewal
of broken parts, especially when the tactical situation requires immediate readiness it is
possible to strip the barrel without taking out the piston group. When this is done the gun
is to be cocked to prevent damage to the face of the breech block.

(a) The trigger group without stripping any other part.

NB Normal Safety Precaution must be carried out before any part of the gun is stripped.

CONCLUSION

a. Question to and from squad on the entire lesson

b. Confirm by question and practice
c. NSP
d. Pack Kit
e. Summary to include the following:

1. The importance of always carrying out safety precautions prior to stripping the
Gun.
2. A forecast of the squad's next lesson in this subject.

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 LESSON # 2 DAILY CLEANING

AIM. To teach how to clean the gun under both normal and adverse conditions.

TIMINGS- Two 40 minutes period.

METHOD : A basic instructional period

STORES:
M249 1 per soldier
Drill rounds 1 per gun
Spare parts wallet, complete 1 per gun
Tables 1 per gun

FLANNELETTE:
50 mm (2 inches) by 50 mm(2 inches) 1 piece per gun
50 mm (2 inches) by 40 mm (1 3/4 inches) 1 piece per gun
100 mm(4 inches) by 150 mm (6 inches ) 1 piece per gun
100 mm ( 4 inches) by 100 mm 9( 4 inches) 1 piece per gun
Oil Cleaning Rags.

PREPARATION:

a. Check contents of each wallet.

b. Layout gun, spare parts wallet and drill round on each table
c. Lay out 1 piece each size flannelette by each gun .

MISCELLANEOUS:

a. Guns should be left stripped down ready for the next stage of the lesson.
b. When teaching cleaning in adverse conditions relate to soldiers' knowledge of
The SLR whenever possible to extract detail from them.

PRELIMS

NORMAL SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

REVISIONS: Revise stripping and assembling, Leave gun stripped.

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INTRODUCTION

EXPLAIN - The M249 is a thoroughly reliable under extreme condition of heat cold rain,
and sand. It is important that the soldier knows how to maintain the gun, even in the most
extreme conditions so that it does not let him down in battle.

DAILY CLEANING

Explain and Demonstrate - The M249 should be cleaned immediately after firing. It
should be disassembled into its major groups before cleaning. After it has been cleaned
and wiped dry a thin coat of cleaning lubricant and petroleum (CLP) is applied by rubbing
with a piece of flannelette. This lubricates and preserves the exposed metal parts during
all normal temperature ranges. When not in use, the M249 should be inspected weekly
and cleaned and lubricated when necessary.

CLEANING

All metal components and surfaces that have been exposed to powder fouling should be
cleaned using (CLP) on a piece of flannelette sizes 50 mm by 150 mm. The same
procedure is used to clean the receiver. NB. When using CLP, no other type cleaner can
be used.

1. Cleaning the bore and chamber using CLP and fresh flannelette.

2. Clean the gas regulator with the special tool (scraper). Remove all carbon and dust.
DO NOT USE CLP ON THE COLLAR, GAS BLOCK BODY.

CLEAN THE GAS VENT HOLE

a. Clean the central hole with appropriate part of the scraper by turning it
clockwise and pushing it inward to the bottom of the housing.
b. Use the protruding tips of the scraper to clean the two grooves of the
body.

3. CLEAN THE GAS CYLINDER AND PISTON WITH SPECIAL TOOL

(SCRAPER). DO NOT USED CLP ON THE GAS CYLINDER OR PISTON.

a. Clean the front interior of the gas cylinder (repositioned in receiver with
bipod in place) by inserting and turning the flat side of the scraper in 360 degree
circular motion.

b. Clean the internal grooves of the front side of the gas cylinder the same as
in paragraph (a), except insert the scraper farther into the gas cylinder.

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 c. Clean the three grooves of the piston by inserting and turning using a 360
degree circular motion. Remove all carbon dust from the piston inside and out.

d. Clean the hole in the front of the piston by inserting and turning the flat
side of the scraper in a 360 degree circular motion.

5. CLEAN CARBON AND DIRT FROM ALL OTHER PARTS OF THE

WEAPON.
NB. A cloth saturated in CLP is used on exterior surfaces to prevent corrosion.

c. LUBRICATION . The moving parts are lubricated with CLP. After

lubricating rub the components by hand to spread the CLP.

1. Operating rod group, use CLP on the operating rod and spring, the slide
assembly, the feed roller and bolt -locking lug.

2. Barrel Group-Use CLP on cam surface of the bolt-locking lugs, the heat shield
and along the outer surfaces of the barrel clamp.

3. Receiver Group - Use CLP on all moving parts of the cover assembly and the
receiver rails.

NB. CLP is the only lubricant to use on the M249 .

1. Extremely hot - use CLP, grade 2

2. Damp or salty air - Use CLP, grade 2. Clean and apply frequently.

3. Sandy or Dusty Conditions -Use CLP. Grade 2 clean and apply frequently remove
excess with a rag after each application.

4. Assemble the gun and test the recoil mechanism to ensure correct functioning

COFIRM BY QUESTION

CONCLUSION

END OF LESSON

a. Question to and from squad on the entire lesson

b. Confirm by question and practice
c. NSP
d. Pack Kit
e. Summary to include the following:

1. The importance of maintaining the gun in a clean condition.

2. A forecast of squads next lesson in subject.

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 LESSON # 3
LOADING AND UNLOADING, SIGHT SETTING AND MAKING SAFE

AIM - To teach How:

a. To make up an ammunition belt
b. To set sights
c. To load and unload the gun.
d. To make safe and clear the gun individually or as a member of a two man team.

TIMINGS - 2 x 40 mins periods

Method. A basic instructional period.

STORES :

M2249 1 per 3 soldiers

Drill rounds loose 10 per soldier and 5 for instructors
Links 10 per soldier and 5 for instructor
Landscape target 01 per gun

PREPARATION

a. Check drill rounds and links for damage.

b. Lay out guns facing landscape target.
c. Lay out a belt of ten drill rounds for each soldier
d. Lay out own belt of five(05) drill rounds in position selected for demonstration.

MISCELLANEOUS

a. Carry out all demonstrations on the gun farthest from landscape target.
b. Number the squad in groups of three and allocate one group per gun prior to
normal safety precaution .
c. During practice control the team by using numbers ie. " No 2 out change" etc.
d. Joining belts make soldier link their belts together and lay them by guns ready for
loading.
e. At the end of the sights setting demonstration, point out the cartridge stop to the
soldiers in preparation for the loading demonstration.
f. Give ranges before each practice of make- safe.
g. When demonstrating two man team, use a soldier from the squad to act as the
No. 2.

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PRELIMINARIES

Safety Precautions Normal

Revision - Nil

Introduction

Explain - Is is essential that the soldier is capable of maintaining the gun in a state of
readiness under battle conditions. A knowledge of the action he is to carry out on
receiving commands helps to achieve the objective

AMMUNITION:

Explain and Demonstrate where applicable.

a. Ammunition is supplied in belts of 200, the belts are of metal disintegrated links
and can be readily broken or joined to give belts of any length. Belts may be issued as
follows, four ball and one tracer ( 1 in 5) this is standard issue. Finally belts of all ball
ammunition for use when tracer is forbidden i.e on the 30 meter ranges .

1. To separate the belts- Hold the round on each side of the point at which it is
desired to separate the belt, twist them in opposite direction, the links at that point will
become disengage.

2. To join two belts fit the projection at the end link of one belt into the gap of the
Other making sure that they are the same way up. If there is a round in position, press the
projection so that it snap into place over the cartridge case. If no round is in position,
insert one as described in pars 59 C (2).

b. The links are only to be re-used with drill and inspection rounds. The only
exception to this rule is in battle and then only in an emergency.

c. Drill belts are purely a training expedient and can be broken down or made up
as follows.

1. To break down a belt. Remove any round from the belts as required by pushing
the nose of the rounds firmly against a solid surface thus releasing the rounds
from the detent, it can be withdrawn. Do the same with any adjoining round and so on

2. To make up a belt take two links, both the same way up, and place them so that the
projection of one fits into the gap of the other. Then interlock them by inserting the nose
of a round through both links and press the round forward till the projecting detent of the
clip clicks into place in the grooves at the base of the round at the base of the rounds.
Connect further links and rounds in the same way.

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SIGHT SETTING

EXPLAIN AND DEMONSTRATE

a. The M249 has a hooded and semi-fixed front sight. The rear sight assembly mounts
on the top of the cover and feed mechanism assembly. The elevation knob drum has range
settings from 300 metres to 1000 metres. Range changes are made on M 249 sight by
rotating the elevation knob to the desired range setting, rotation of the rear sight aperture
(Peep Sight) is used for changes in elevating or range adjustment, such as during zeroing.
Each click of the Peep sight is equal to one-half mil change in elevation, which is .5 cm at 10
m. The sight adjust for windage by rotating the windage knob. Each click of windage
adjustment also equals a one-half-mil-change, which is .5 cm at 10 metre.
There is also a windage sliding scale marked with index lines for centering the rear sight
aperture.

CONFIRMATION BY PRACTISE

Loading and Unloading -

Explain and Demonstrate.

a. Loading Position. On the command 'LOAD' Lie down straight behind the gun, legs
together and heels uppermost. Hold the small of the butt with the left hand in an
overhand grip and pistol grip with the right hand, the fore finger lying outside the trigger
guard. This is known as the loading position

b. Loading. Tilt gun to the right and open the Top cover. Take up the ammunition
belt and check that the links are not loose or damaged. Position the belt on the feed tray
with the links uppermost and first round against the cartridge stop. Hold the belt in
position with the left hand and close the top cover. Return the hands to the correct position
on the butt and pistol grip and the gun to the upright position .

c. Unloading - On the command "UNLOAD" raise the Butt into the shoulder and
cock the gun. Lower the butt, raise the top cover and remove the belt. Clear the
feed tray of empty links, close the top cover, raise the butt into the shoulder ,
first ensuring that the Safety Catch is set on fire, align the sights roughly on target,
press the trigger. Lower the butt close the ejection opening cover and stand up.

d. Clearing the Gun - If the order unload-clear gun is given, the soldier is to unload as in
Para c. Then he is to raise the top cover to its upright position, stand up and in a clear
voice report "Gun Clear".

Confirm By practise leaving guns loaded.

Action on range being ordered and making safe.

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Explain and Demonstrate

When the range is ordered, set the sights, lift the Butt into the shoulder and cock the gun.
The right hand holds the pistols pistol grip with the forefinger on the trigger. The left
hand holds the small of the butt in the overhand grip. It is often common to return a gun,
which as been loaded and cocked, to a state in which it is loaded but safe. The command
use for this is make safe and on receiving it the soldier is to.

1. Unload as taught
2. Reload (with new belt, if necessary)
3. Return his hand to the Butt and Pistol Grip.
4.
Confirm by Practise leave guns loaded.

Loading and unloading -Two man gun Team

Explain and demonstrate

a. The gun can be handled and fired by the Gunner alone, but there maybe
situations when he must be assisted in handling the gun by No. 2, who may be either the
gun control or a Rifleman from the Section. The No. 2 is to lie on the left of the gun close
the to the Gunner.

b. During the action of loading when the gunner raises the top cover, the No. 2 is
to position the belt on the feed tray, ensuring that his fingers are clear before the Top
cover is closed.

c. During the action of unloading , the No. 2 is to remove the belt from the feed
Tray.

Confirmation by Practise

Conclusion
End of lesson Drill

a. Question to and from squad on the entire lesson

b. Confirm by question and practice
c. NSP
d. Pack Kit
Summary to include the following:

1. The importance of checking the ammunition belt before loading.

2. A forecast of the squads next lesson in this subject.

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 LESSON 4 - HOLDING AND FIRING
INSTRUCTORS NOTES

AIM - To teach how to hold, aim and fire the gun at stationary and moving targets.
To Teach- The rates of fire, lengths of bursts and actions to be carried out receiving the
commands "STOP AND GO ON".

TIMINGS. Two 40 minutes periods.

METHODS A basic Instructional Period.

STORES

M 249 1 per three soldiers

Drill Rounds, Belted 15 per Gun
Eye Discs 1 per gun
Landscape Target 1 (minimum requirement)

PREPARATIONS

a. Prepare arc of fire and select reference points

b. Layout guns and belts.
c. Where possible use one identical landscape target per gun positioned centrally
in front of the Gun's position.
d. Prepare fire control orders using different methods of indication. Check that
all selected targets can be engaged from the gun positions.
e. Check the bipod ; eg adjusting latch on each gun.

MISCELLANEOUS

a. DRILL ROUNDS ARE NOT TO BE USED IN CONJUNCTION WITH EYE

DISCS.

b. The squad should be numbered off in groups of three and one gun allocated to
each group prior to NSPs being carried out.

c. During practice control the squad by using their numbers, ie No. 2

out………change etc.

d. If the soldier suffers discomfort through pressing the mouth against the
knuckles of the left hand gripping the small of the butt in an overhand grip then he should
be encourage to try the under handgrip.

15
e. Soldiers will understand more easily if it is explained that the firing drill learnt
in firing a single shot with a rifle are applied, though the hold and follow through are
extended to cater for the rounds in a burst.

f. Give practice as individual and as teams.

g. During practise firing, order "STOP - MAKE SAFE prior to changing gun numbers.

h. Use an eye disc to check sight alignment

PRELIMINARIES.

NSP, normal indication or Arc of fire, and reference point

Revision-Revise loading, action of range being ordered, and make safe. Leave gun
loaded.

INTRODUCTION

Explain - In order to bring effective fire down on the enemy, the soldier must know how
hold, aim and fire the gun using the best length of burst against both stationary and
moving targets.

HOLDING AND AIMING

Explain and demonstrate

a. When a range is ordered, act as already taught.

b. Aiming is as for the rifle.

c. When a target is indicated, use the left hand under the gun to move it as
necessary and line up the gun, body and the target , open the legs and lay the heels flat on
the ground.

d. Sight adjustment for height can be made by moving the elbows inwards or
outwards until the position is correct. If a large adjustment is required apply the safety
catch, lower the butt and push up in on the bipod leg catch and pull down.

e. Move the whole of the body up to the gun until the right shoulder is firmly in
contact with the butt.

f. Pull the butt backwards and downwards with an overhand or under hand
GRASP of the left hand, the left elbow being placed on the ground level with the right
elbow so that the shoulders remain square to the front.

16
g. Hold the pistol grip firmly with right hand, forefinger running along the trigger guard
and pull the gun backwards and upwards into the shoulder.

h. Lock the holds by turning the wrist inward and rest the cheek on the left hand if
using the over head hand grip or on the small of butt if using the underhand grip.

i. Test the hold by rocking backwards and forwards slightly. The foresight should
move directly up and down on the point of aim.

Confirmation by practice Order 'Make Safe'.

Firing.

Explain and Demonstrate

a. On the command fire, when the hold and aim are correct, the trigger should be
pressed long enough to fire a burst of two or three rounds and then should be fully
released to allow it to go forward.

b. Observation of the burst is of utmost importance. The moment the trigger is released
the left eye should be opened and the area of the target observed to ascertain the strike of
the shots.

c. Any necessary alterations to the sights or aim should be made and then continue
firing at the normal rate of about 25 rounds per minute. If rapid fire is ordered, increase
the rate to about 200 rounds per minute.

d. On the order stop, cock the gun, put the safety catch to safe with the left hand
and then lower the butt. If the belt has only a few rounds left connect another belt to it.

e. On the order GO ON, re-align onto the target , test the hold, and continue holding and
firing.

f. On the order STOP - 'MAKE SAFE', act as already taught.

g. If a No. 2 is present it is his task to see that there is always a supply of

ammunition for the gun. This he is to do by clipping on further belts as necessary. It is
not necessary for the No.2 to hold the belt during firing, but he may be required to
straighten the belt to assist correct feed.

CONFIRM BY PRACTICE

LENGTH OF BURST AND RATE OF FIRE.

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Explain

a. A burst of 3 to 5 rounds is necessary to observe the strike of shots and correct errors in
range and wind allowances. Tracers is filled one in four in each belt. This is to assist in
observation of strike, however, the length of burst will determined by the type of target, the
range to the target and skill of the soldier

b. A burst of eight to ten rounds spreads more but gives a better chance of hitting a
moving target and may be necessary at very short ranges against a mass attack.

c. The longer burst can also be extremely effective when firing at the front of the
AFV particularly if aimed at devices which assist crew vision, such as periscope, light or
infra-red equipment.

d. Rapid fire is the fastest rate at which the soldier can maintain his accuracy and
is only to be used when the target warrants it i.e a large number of enemy in the open at a
short range, or may be used for short periods when providing covering fire for an attack
by our own troops.

e. Normal rate of fire will not overheat the barrel but rapid rates and long bursts for any
length of time will. The soldier must use his common sense and regulate his rate of fire
and length of burst to the tactical situation remembering that over heating quickly wears
out the barrel and affects its accuracy.

f. If possible during a lull in firing the gun should be unloaded, action cocked and
The top cover raised so that the gun may cool down after sustained rapid fire.

g. In training the maximum permissible rate of fire is 85 rounds per minute using
sustained 3 rounds burst. This rate is never to be exceeded since any faster rate is likely to
cause overheating of the barrel and apart from the effect already discussed, could lead to
the occurrence of dangerous stoppages and waste of ammunition. No gun is to fire more
than 200 rounds continuously through the same barrel. This is to avoid overheating and
consequently dangerous stoppages. Barrels are to be changed after every 200 rounds and
not used again until hand cooled.

Confirmation by Question

Moving Targets.

Explain. Select a point of aim well in front of the line of advance of the moving target.
Aim at it and when the target is two width from that point of aim, fire a long burst of eight
to ten rounds. The most lively targets are soft-skinned vehicles and unbattened AFVs.

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Confirmation by practice

Conclusion
END OF LESSON DRILL

a. Question to and from squad on the entire lesson

b. Confirm by question and practice
c. NSP
d. Pack Kit
e. Summary to include the following:

1. The importance of testing the hold before firing a burst.

2. A forecast of squads next lesson in this subject.

19
 LESSON 5 - IMMEDIATE ACTION AND GAS STOPPAGES
STOPPAGES DRILL
(Instructors notes)

AIM - To teach how the gun works, the immediate action to be carried out if it stop firing
and the stoppages drill.'

TIMINGS - 2 x 40minutes periods.

METHOD A basic instructional period

STORES

M 249s 1 Per three soldiers

Drill Rounds, belt 1 per Gun
Landscape target 1 (minimum requirement)

PREPARATION:

a. Prepare arcs of fire and select reference points

b. Lay out gun and drill belts.
c. Where possible use identical landscape target per gun, position centrally in front of
he gun position.
d. Prepare fire control orders to selected targets and check that the target can be
engaged from each gun position.

MISCELLANEOUS

a. Number the squad in groups of three and allocate one group per gun prior to normal
safety precautions.

b. During practice, control the squad by using their numbers, i.e No. 2 out changes
etc.

c. Give practice also in two man gun teams.

d. Emphasize after any stoppage, that the gun must be held firmly and re-aligned
unto the target before pressing the trigger.

e. Before changing teams for practice on the guns , order "STOP".

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CONDUCT OF THE LESSON

Preliminaries

Safety Precautions - Normal. Indicate arc of fire and reference points

Revision - Revised firing drill, Leave guns loaded.

INTRODUCTION

Explain - If the gun is correctly cleaned and prepared for firing, stoppages will seldom
occur. However, should the gun stop firing it is important that the soldier knows how to
remedy it with a minimum loss of time. A knowledge of how the gun works will assist in a
quick understanding of the reason behind the stoppage.

HOW THE GUN WORKS.

Explain - The gun is loaded by hand and cocked. The firing mechanism works on gas
pressure created as a fired round passes through the barrel. The gasses drive the bolt
assemly to the rear, ejecting the empty case. The return spring then drives the piston
assembly forward, loading a fresh round, which is then fired. This action goes on as long
as the trigger is kept pressed and there are rounds in the belt. The M 249 is loaded, fired,
unloaded, and cleared from the open bolt position.

Confirm by Question.

IMMEDIATE ACTION (IA)

Explain and Demonstrate - If the gun stops or fail to fire

a. Cock the gun

b. Lower the Butt
c. Open the top cover, clear the feed tray and close the top cover as quickly as
possible.
d. Raise the butt into the shoulder and align the sight unto the target, press the
trigger.
e. Lower the butt, reload, raise the butt into the shoulder and cock the gun
Re-align onto the target again and continue firing.

CONFIRM BY PRACTISE.

STOPPAGES REMEDIED BY APPLYING IA

Explain - The following causes of stoppages will be remedied by applying IA

a. Failure to feed - Live round partly fed due to damages link

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b. Failure to fire - Misfired round
c. Failure to extract - Hard extraction
d. Failure to chamber - Expended belt
e. Failure to eject .

Confirm By Question

Gun cannot be cocked

Explain and demonstrate

a. On attempting to carry the IA, if the cocking handle cannot be pulled fully to
the rear, hold it as far back as possible and lower the butt.

b. Open the Top Cover clear the Feed tray and close the top cover.

c. Raise the butt into the shoulder and complete the cocking action. Align the sight
unto the target, press the trigger, lower the butt, reload, raise the butt into the shoulder
and cock the gun, re-align onto the target again and continue firing.

d. The gun could not be cocked due to a damaged link jamming the feed pawls

CONFIRM BY PRACTISE (The squad are to assume that the gun won't fully cock).

GAS STOPPAGES DRILL

Explain : The setting of the gas collar has no effect on cyclic rate. However if cyclic rate
slows down or weapon becomes sluggish ; clear, clean and lubricate weapon.

CONCLUSION.

END OF LESSON DRILL

a. Question to and from squad on the entire lesson

b. Confirm by question and practice
c. NSP
d. Pack Kit
e. Summary to include the following:

1. The importance of correct firing Drills after clearing a stoppage.

2. A forecast of the squad next lesson in this subject.

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 LESSON 6 - OTHER STOPPAGES
INSTRUCTOR' S NOTES

AIM: To teach the soldier the causes of stoppages and how to remedy them.

TIMINIGS: Two 40 minute periods

METHOD: A Basic instructional period

STORES
M249s - 1 per three soldiers
Drill rounds belted-1 per gun
Landscape target- 1 (minimum requirement)

PREPARATION

a. Prepare arcs of fire and select reference points.

a. Lay out guns and drill belts.

b. Where possible use one identical landscape target per gun, positioned centrally in
front of the gun position.

c. Prepare fire control orders onto selected targets and check that targets can be
engaged from each position.

MISCELLANEOUS:

a. Number the squad in groups of three and allocate one group per gun prior to N. S. P.'s

b. During practice, control the squad by using their numbers ie. No.2 out change etc.

c. Give practice also in two man gun teams.

d. Only a qualified armourer is allowed to manufacture a separated case, subject to

existing EMERS and unit permission to use the cartridge case of an expired round.

CONDUCT OF LESSON

PRELIMINARIES
SAFETY PRECAUTION : Normal indicated arcs of fire and reference points.
REVISION : Revise IA. Leave gun loaded.
INTRODUCTION :
EXPLAIN : Although stoppages caused by broken parts or
obstructions are rare, the soldier must be able to recognise and remedy such causes quickly

23
in order to get the gun firing again. In this lesson the stoppages will be taught in a set
sequence but in reality they may occur in any order.

OTHER STOPPAGES:

Explain and Demonstrate. If after applying the immediate action the gun will not fire.

a. Unload but do not close the ejection opening cover, or lower the butt.

b. Cock the gun, lower the butt, open the top cover, raise the feed tray and inspect the
interior of the body.

c. Subsequent action will depend on what you see in the body.

OBSTRUCTION IN THE BODY:

If you see an obstruction in the body (jammed live rounds or empty cases or both) remove
it by hand or, if necessary, by using a tool. When the obstruction is clear inspect the
chamber. If the chamber is clear or there is a live round present close the top cover, place
the butt in the shoulder, aim in a safe direction and press the trigger (a round may be
fired ). Ensure the working parts are forward, reload, raise the butt, cock the gun, aim
and carry on firing.

CONFIRM BY PRACTICE:

EMPTY CASE IN THE CHAMBER.

Explain and Demonstrate. If on initial inspection or after removing an obstruction from

the body you see an empty case in the chamber (caused by a broken extractor or spring)
close the top cover, put the butt in the shoulder and press the trigger. Strip the gun and
replace the broken part. Reassemble the gun, raise the butt, cock the gun, press the
trigger and cock the gun again to ensure the empty case is extracted from the chamber.
Press the trigger, reload, raise the butt, cock the gun, aim and carry on firing.

CONFIRM BY PRACTICE

OBSTRUCTION IN THE BARREL OR SEPARATED CASE. If on looking into

the body and chamber there is no visible obstruction, remove the barrel and inspect it for
an obstruction or a separated case. If there is:

a. An obstruction: The barrel is not to be used until the obstruction is

removed. Obtain the assistance of an armourer if necessary.

b. A separated case. Replace the barrel, remove the clearing plug, screw up
the base and insert it into the chamber. Put the butt in the shoulder and press the
trigger, cock the gun and check that the separated case is on the extracted clearing

24
 plug. Press the trigger, reload, raise the butt, cock the gun, aim and carry on firing.
The separated case should be removed from the clearing plug.

CONFIRM BY PRACTICE:

DAMAGED OR BROKEN PARTS.

Explain. If after carrying out the immediate action and stoppage drill, the gun still will not
fire, the following actions should be carried out:

a. Unload and strip the gun.

b. Examine the gun and ejected ammunition for the following signs and replace
damaged or broken parts: (If necessary obtain the assistance of an armourer)

(1) Cartridge not struck (broken firing pin).

(2) Cartridge not properly struck (weak return spring).

(3) Repeated failure to eject (broken ejector).

CONFIRM BY PRACTICE:

FEED PAWL AND SPRINGS.

Explain and Demonstrate. After applying the immediate action, if the gun will not fire and
you cannot fully cock the gun, act as previously taught but before reloading open the top
cover and examine the feed pawls and springs. If the feed pawls are not working freely,
clean and oil them. Load, raise the butt, cock the gun and continue firing.

CONFIRM BY PRICTICE. (Squad to assume gun won't cock).

LEAVE GUNS MADE SAFE.

RUNAWAY GUN

Explain and Demonstrate. A mechanical fault may cause the gun to fire after the trigger
has been released. If this happens:

a. Hold the gun firmly in the shoulder.

b. Twist the belt at the point of entry into the feed-way, thus breaking the belt or
jamming the feed.

c. When the gun stops, clear the gun, clean the gas cylinder. Raise the butt, cock the
gun and carry on firing.

25
CONFIRM BY PRACTICE. LEAVE GUNS MADE SAFE.

CONCLUSION

END OF LESSON DRILL:

a. Question from the squad on the entire lesson.

b. Confirm by question and practice.
c. N. S. P.
d. Pack kit.
e. Summary. To include the following:

(1) The importance of correct firing drills after clearing a stoppage.

(2) A-forecast of the squad's next lesson in this subject.

26