How to Load an M240B Machine Gun

The M240B is the standard heavy weapon of a modern United States Army infantry platoon. The rather heavy and ungainly gun is a reliable and destructive weapon when handled and maintained well. Here are some tips to get you started loading your M240B.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• M240B medium machine gun
• Belt of linked 7.62mm ammunition

1. Pull the charging handle back and lock the bolt in the rear. Slide the charging handle back to the front.
2. Place the weapon on "safe" and open the feed tray. Cover and look on the feed tray and in the breech for blockages.
3. Place the ammunition on the feed tray. Allow the first cartridge to rest on the gap in the feed tray.
4. Use your left hand to hold the belt parallel with the tray, while keeping your fingers clear of the cover.
5. Close the feed tray cover with a sense of purpose.

Tips & Warnings

• The bolt can only be locked to the rear when the weapon is on "fire."
• When placing the belt into the feed tray be sure the open side of the links is down with the "Brass to the grass."
• Closing the feed tray cover with the bolt forward can cause damage to the feed lever.
• Don't let the first round in the belt move away from the cartridge stops, when closing the feed tray cover.
• Don't slam the feed tray cover so hard that you do damage; just close it hard enough to get the latches to catch.
• Don't have your fingers in the way of the feed tray cover when you close it. They will get crushed.
• Always point machine guns in a safe direction. Don't "flag" your buddies by pointing any weapon, loaded or unloaded, at them.
• Children should not operate machine guns.