SIG MG338
SIG Sauer Inc. · Machine Gun · In Production · 2020
Also known as: MG 338, SIG Sauer MG 338, SIG-MMG 338
Overview
The SIG MG338 is a belt-fed, gas-operated medium machine gun developed by SIG Sauer and chambered in .338 Norma Magnum. Designed to bridge the capability gap between 7.62x51mm NATO weapons such as the M240 and the heavier .50 BMG M2 Browning, it delivers .50-cal-class effective range with substantially lower weight and improved man-portability. The complete system weighs around 20 lb (9 kg) and uses a quick-change 24-inch barrel, a recoil-mitigation system, ambidextrous controls and a folding stock. It is convertible to fire 7.62x51mm NATO for lower-cost training. US SOCOM procured early examples in 2020 as part of its Lightweight Medium Machine Gun (LWMMG) effort.
Specifications
| Weight (empty) | 9070 g (319.9 oz) |
| Overall Length | 1300 mm (51.18") |
| Barrel Length | 610 mm (24.02") |
| Action Type | Gas Operated |
| Firing Mechanism | Open Bolt |
| Magazine Type | Belt |
| Muzzle Velocity | 810 m/s (2657 fps) |
| Effective Range | 1700 m (1859 yd) |
| Maximum Range | 5640 m (6168 yd) |
| Rate of Fire | 600 rpm |
| Barrel Rifling | Right Hand |
| Frame Material | Steel |
| Barrel Material | Steel |
Calibers
- .338 Norma Magnum · primary — also known as .338 NM, 338 Norma Magnum, 8.6x63mm
Features
- Firing modes: Full Automatic
- Feed systems: Belt Fed, Disintegrating Link Belt
- Safety mechanisms: Manual Safety
- Features: Quick Change Barrel, Ambidextrous Controls, Suppressor Ready, Folding Stock, Accessory Rail, Recoil Mitigation System, Convertible Caliber
Service history
Operators
- United States Special Operations Command · adopted 2020 · as MG338
Production
Production years: 2019-present
US SOCOM purchased an initial batch (reported around 10 second-generation units) to develop LWMMG requirements; broader procurement quantities not publicly disclosed.
Origin
Country of origin: United States
Designer: SIG Sauer
Notes
The MG338 platform can be reconfigured to fire 7.62x51mm NATO in addition to its primary .338 Norma Magnum chambering. Quoted system weight (~20 lb / 9 kg) is for the complete weapon; figures vary by source and configuration.
Background
The MG338 grew out of the SOCOM Lightweight Medium Machine Gun (LWMMG) concept, which sought a belt-fed weapon firing the .338 Norma Magnum cartridge to occupy the niche between the 7.62 NATO M240 and the .50 BMG M2. SOCOM's requirement called for a sub-24-pound, belt-fed gun with quick-change suppressed and unsuppressed 24-inch barrels, a 500-600 rpm rate of fire, and an area-target range out to roughly 2,000 meters, giving infantry near-.50-cal reach in a man-portable package.