Fear & Loading: Navy Looking to Quiet the Ma Duece

by
posted on August 22, 2019
m2-small.jpg

[DOD photo by Air Force Senior Airman Christopher Maldonado]

U.S. Naval Supply Systems Command issued a request for information on Aug. 20, “… seeking sources that manufacture a Suppressor compatible with the M2A1 .50 Caliber Machine Gun.” Specifications include a 95 percent or greater reduction in muzzle flash when compared to that produced without a flash hider and sound reduction to 140 dB or lower.

The posting also notes [PDF], “The suppressor must not affect the function of the weapon. The suppressor must be capable of operating in extreme environmental conditions (sand, dust, rain, snow, etc…).”

The machine gun it will be affixed to is a John Moses Browning design that joined the U.S. Armed Forces battery just after World War I. It didn’t take frontline troops and enthusiasts to label it “Ma Deuce,” and it continues to serve to this day in the Global War on Terrorism.

This week’s notice is yet another signal the military may soon put an end to the exclusive on suppressors once held by specialized units. Protecting the hearing of the men and women in uniform is one consideration, but there are combat advantages.

In 2017 the Marine Corps’ Bravo Company, 1st Battalion, 2nd Marines entered into a unit-wide, all-suppressed small-arms experiment. Maj. Gen. John Love explained months before the trial began that combat squads often disperse widely during maneuvers and engagement, which can make hearing and responding to commands during small arms fire a challenge—if not impossible. Suppressed fire, he said, should remedy the problem.

In one European live-fire exercise since then—in conjunction with other NATO troops—the unit’s squad leaders confirmed the General’s suspicions. The improvement was particularly notable when operating next to units with firearms wearing only flash hiders. Suppressors also reduce muzzle flash, an added bonus that reduces the risk of it betraying position during nighttime operations.

This month’s U.S. Naval Supply Systems Command request states, “All interested, responsible sources are encouraged to submit company and product literature, references and any other pertinent information for the Government’s review, including CAGE code and business status,” on or before Sept. 20.

 

Latest

Taurus Deputy Rifleman Review 1
Taurus Deputy Rifleman Review 1

Rifleman Review: Taurus Deputy

Recently, Taurus USA introduced a throwback in the form of its Deputy, a single-action revolver that would be more at home during the days of the Old West than in 2025.

New For 2025: Canik Mete MC9 Prime

Based on Canik's popular Mete MC9 concealed-carry pistol, the MC9 Prime is an entirely upgraded platform that incorporates modifications requested by U.S. consumers.

Rifleman Q&A: Argentinian Auction Piece

"I purchased this .22-cal., six-shot, double-action revolver with a very good bore at auction. The barrel is 1.5" long, octagonal and engraved. Can you tell me more about it?"

The Rifleman Report: Magnificent Milestones

The last major milestone that I remember marking our nation’s founding, the 1976 bicentennial, occurred when I was a high schooler, a year before I enlisted in a nearby military academy’s Junior ROTC program.

 

NRA Partners With Specialists To Enhance Hearing Health

Start Hearing and SoundGear have partnered with the NRA to promote hearing health, safety and protection among members.

Bill Bachenberg Elected NRA President, Doug Hamlin Unanimously Reelected as NRA Executive Vice President & CEO

Today, the Board of Directors of the National Rifle Association of America (NRA), elected Bill Bachenberg of Pennsylvania as President of the NRA and Doug Hamlin as NRA Executive Vice President & CEO.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.