Which weapon is heavier, the M240B or the M249?

Which weapon is heavier, the M240B or the M249?

• A. M249
• B. Both weigh the same
• C. M240
• D. M4

Answer: (C)

The weight difference comes from the design and purpose of the two weapons. The M240B fires a larger 7.62mm round, has a sturdier, longer receiver, and uses a belt-feeding system built for sustained, mounted fire. All of these factors add significant mass, even when the weapon is unloaded. By contrast, the M249 is a lighter 5.56mm squad automatic weapon with a smaller, lighter receiver, a shorter barrel, and lighter feed options, designed for portable, individual use. Because of these design choices, the M240B weighs noticeably more than the M249. The M4 is much lighter still, being a carbine. So, the heavier weapon in this pair is the M240B.

The weight difference comes from the design and purpose of the two weapons. The M240B fires a larger 7.62mm round, has a sturdier, longer receiver, and uses a belt-feeding system built for sustained, mounted fire. All of these factors add significant mass, even when the weapon is unloaded. By contrast, the M249 is a lighter 5.56mm squad automatic weapon with a smaller, lighter receiver, a shorter barrel, and lighter feed options, designed for portable, individual use. Because of these design choices, the M240B weighs noticeably more than the M249. The M4 is much lighter still, being a carbine. So, the heavier weapon in this pair is the M240B.