FN Mk 48
FN Herstal · Machine Gun · In Production · 2003
Also known as: Mk 48 Mod 0, Mk 48 LWMG, FN Mk 48 LMG
Overview
The FN Mk 48 is a Belgian-American 7.62x51mm NATO light machine gun developed by FN Herstal's US subsidiary FN Manufacturing for United States Special Operations Command. Introduced in 2003, it is a gas-operated, air-cooled, belt-fed weapon firing from an open bolt, derived from an early 7.62mm prototype of the FN Minimi and effectively a scaled-up version of the 5.56mm Mk 46. The Mk 48 was created to give special operations units a hard-hitting yet portable medium machine gun, weighing far less than the M240 / FN MAG while delivering the longer range and penetration of the 7.62mm cartridge. It feeds from disintegrating M13-link belts, has a quick-change chrome-lined barrel, an integral folding bipod, and Picatinny rails for optics and accessories. The improved Mk 48 Mod 1 added an enhanced feed system, rail handguard, and refinements for reliability. It serves with US SOCOM and several allied special operations forces.
Specifications
| Weight (empty) | 8200 g (289.2 oz) |
| Overall Length | 1000 mm (39.37") |
| Barrel Length | 502 mm (19.76") |
| Action Type | Gas Operated Long Stroke |
| Firing Mechanism | Hammer Fired |
| Trigger Type | Automatic Only |
| Magazine Type | Belt |
| Muzzle Velocity | 850 m/s (2789 fps) |
| Muzzle Energy | 3441 J (2538 ft·lbf) |
| Effective Range | 800 m (875 yd) |
| Maximum Range | 3725 m (4074 yd) |
| Rate of Fire | 710 rpm |
| Barrel Rifling | Right Hand |
| Rifling Twist | 305 mm (12.01") |
| Number of Grooves | 4 |
| Frame Material | Steel |
| Barrel Material | Steel |
| Stock Material | Polymer |
| Finish | Phosphate |
Calibers
- 7.62x51mm NATO · primary · 7.62mm NATO — also known as .308 Winchester, 7.62x51mm, .308 Win
Features
- Firing modes: Full Automatic
- Feed systems: Belt Fed Disintegrating
- Safety mechanisms: Manual Safety Selector
- Features: Quick Change Barrel, Chrome Lined Barrel, Gas Regulator, Picatinny Rail, Bipod, Open Bolt, Belt Fed, Folding Stock, Carrying Handle
Variants
- FN Mk 48 Mod 1 - Improved
Service history
Operators
- United States Special Operations Command · adopted 2003 · as Mk 48
- Australian Defence Force
- Italian Armed Forces
Conflicts
- War in Afghanistan (2001-2021)
- Iraq War (2003-2011)
Production
Production years: 2003-present
Procured by US SOCOM and allied special operations units; total production figures not publicly disclosed
Origin
Country of origin: United States
Designer: FN Manufacturing
Notes
Often designated Mk 48 Mod 0 (original) and Mk 48 Mod 1 (improved). Sometimes referred to as the Mk 48 LWMG (Light Weight Machine Gun).
Background
The Mk 48 filled a niche between the 5.56mm Mk 46 and the heavier 7.62mm M240, giving SOF gunners a belt-fed weapon they could carry on foot patrols while still reaching out with full-power rifle ammunition.