Video—I Have This Old Gun: M249 SAW Machine Gun

by
posted on May 26, 2017
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
Earlier this year, FN announced the M249S Para, a semi-automatic-only, closed-bolt version of the gun used by elite operators within the U.S. military. But the military's M249 SAW—Squad Automatic Weapon—introduced in 1984, is the Light Machine Gun of U.S. forces and many U.S. allies. It has seen action in every major conflict involving the United States since 1989. Firing the standard 5.56 mm NATO round, the M249 has stood the test of time due to its versatility and adaptability to circumstances. Learn more about the history and evolution of the FN M249 SAW in this "I Have This Old Gun" segment from a recent episode of American Rifleman TV








Latest

Savage 110 Trail Blazer rifle in 22 Creedmoor
Savage 110 Trail Blazer rifle in 22 Creedmoor

Review: Savage 110 Trail Blazer Rifle in 22 Creedmoor

Savage’s new 110 Trail Blazer rifle offers top-shelf performance at entry-level pricing.

I Carry: Springfield Armory Hellcat Pro 9 mm Pistol in a PHLster Holster

In this week's episode of "I Carry," we have a Springfield Armory Hellcat Pro 9 mm pistol with a Meprolight MPO Pro-S red-dot sight carried in a PHLster Skeleton kydex holster.

The Armed Citizen® Jan. 16, 2026

Read today's "The Armed Citizen" entry for real stories of law-abiding citizens, past and present, who used their firearms to save lives.

FN Releases New SCAR Rifles & QD Suppressors

FN made headlines when it announced it would discontinue its legacy SCAR rifle platform in 2025, but for 2026, the design is back and better than ever.

Review: KelTec SUB2000 GEN3 In 10 mm

At long last, KelTec has answered customer requests for a more potent version of their folding pistol-caliber carbine with its SUB2000 GEN3 chambered for the 10 mm Auto cartridge.

Lowering Decibels For Less: Lyman's New Sonicore Suppressor Lineup

As 2026 shapes up to be the "Year Of The Suppressor," firearm manufacturers are racing their new designs to market, and one of the most affordable options out of the gate is Lyman Products' Sonicore line of suppressors.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.