COMFIRMATORY TEST OF MACHINE GUN, CALIBER .50, FIXED, M85
Abstract:
T e M85 machine gun weighs 63 lbs. and is 55 in. long, 6 in. high, and 5 in. wide. It incorporates a high nd a low rate of fire and can be fired electrically or manually. The low rate of fire is achieved by means of a time delay mechanism which causes a delay in the start of the counter-recoil stroke of the bolt assembly. The ammunition feed direction can be changed by repositioning component parts. Throughout testing, the weapon was stored outdoors and exposed to ambient temperatures ranging from 40 F to -66 F. Cold-soak periods ranged from 8 hours to 50 days. Ambient temperatures during firing ranged from 30 F to -56 F. Throughout all tests, tank crewmen were dressed in arctic winter clothing. The test machine gun was satisfactory with respect to weapons and ammunition functioning, accuracy, barrel life, comfort, compatibility with related equipment, maintena ce and durability and reliability. It was concluded that the 50 cal. M85 machine gun is suitable for army use under arctic winter conditions.