XM312
General Dynamics Ordnance and Tactical Systems · Machine Gun · Prototype · 2005
Also known as: XM-312, ACSW machine gun variant
Overview
The XM312 is an American prototype heavy machine gun chambered in .50 BMG, developed by General Dynamics as a lightweight, low-recoil replacement for the aging M2 Browning. Weighing roughly 16 kg, it uses a hybrid gas-and-recoil operating system that fires at a deliberately slow cyclic rate of about 260 rounds per minute, yielding far less recoil than the M2 and allowing accurate suppressive fire out to 2,000 meters. It was designed to be convertible to the XM307 Advanced Crew Served Weapon 25 mm grenade launcher with only a small number of parts swapped in the field.
Specifications
| Weight (empty) | 16000 g (564.4 oz) |
| Action Type | Gas Operated |
| Firing Mechanism | Open Bolt |
| Magazine Type | Belt |
| Muzzle Velocity | 890 m/s (2920 fps) |
| Muzzle Energy | 16600 J (12244 ft·lbf) |
| Effective Range | 2000 m (2187 yd) |
| Rate of Fire | 260 rpm |
| Barrel Rifling | Right Hand |
| Frame Material | Steel |
| Barrel Material | Steel |
| Finish | Phosphate |
Calibers
- .50 BMG · primary · 12.7x99mm NATO — also known as 12.7x99mm, .50 Browning Machine Gun, 12.7 NATO
Features
- Firing modes: Full Automatic
- Feed systems: Belt Fed
- Features: Hybrid Gas Recoil Operation, Low Recoil, Lightweight Design, Convertible To Xm307, Quick Change Barrel, Tripod Or Vehicle Mounted
Service history
Operators
- United States Army
Production
Production years: 2005-2008
Prototype / developmental program; never mass-produced or fielded
Origin
Country of origin: United States
Designer: General Dynamics Armament and Technical Products
Discontinued: 2008
Notes
The slow cyclic rate and hybrid action gave the XM312 dramatically reduced recoil compared to the M2 Browning, enough to be fired accurately from a lightweight tripod. The program did not enter mass production; its goals were later pursued through the lighter XM806 (LW50), which was itself cancelled in 2012.
Background
The XM312 shared a common architecture with the XM307 25 mm Advanced Crew Served Weapon, so a single weapon could be converted between a .50-caliber machine gun and a 25 mm airbursting grenade launcher at unit level in a few minutes.