Tag: MK 48

MK 48 or the Mark 48 is a lightweight machine gun. It is being manufactured by a division of FN Herstal named Fabrique Nationale Manufacturing Inc. since 2003. It was designed and developed in collaboration with the U.S. Special Operations Command (USSOCOM) and is being used by the USSOCOM and Canadian Special Operations Forces Command (CANSOFCOM). This gas operated and fully automatic machine gun is air cooled and fires 7.62×51mm NATO cartridges from a disintegrated belt of ammo. Its design was based upon MK 46 MOD 0 and after its inception it replaced MK 43 MOD 0 in efficiency.

This machine gun weighs 11.2 kg (24.7 lb) with 100 rounds of ammo and 8.2 kg (18.26 lb) when empty. It is 1000 mm (39.75 inches) long with a barrel length of 502 mm (19.75 inches). Its effective firing range is 800 m (~875 yd.) and maximum firing range is 3600 m (~3940 yd.). This open bolt action machine gun can fire up to 760 rounds per minute. And it has two variants – MK 48 MOD 0 and MK 48 MOD 1.

  • Ironclad Gloves – a Great Asbestos Glove Replacement for Barrel Changing

    Ironclad Gloves – a Great Asbestos Glove Replacement for Barrel Changing

    Ironclad Gloves – Easier and Nicer Looking

    In the old days, the soldier’s GI issue glove for changing out the barrel of the M240 Machine Gun (and other MGs) was the standard ugly-looking asbestos glove. Also the asbestos gloves of old are often no longer included in the crew served kits because of medical concerns. Units are finding themselves having to buy something else as a commercial off the shelf purchase.

    Barrel Change Asbestos Glove

    After experience in combat and based on military feedback, we have found that the Ironclad Gloves, also known as “Heatworx” are what crew-served weapons teams should use.  Here s a brief summary about why it is better:

    • Needed to replace asbestos gloves no longer included in Crew Weapon kits.
    • Provide essential heat protection and grip for safety during barrel changes on hot weapons.
    • Prevents burn injuries to Soldiers’ hand due to the dangerously unsafe heat created by after minimal firing of weapon.
    • Provides Intermittent Heat Resistance up to 600 Degrees F
    • Padded Knuckles, Full Finger, and 2 3/4 in cuff protection
    • Resistance to heat without sacrificing hand use
    • Breathable and 100% machine washable