What weapons do marines use?

What weapons do marines use?

When discussing weapons, people often think of precision-crafted firearms, and in the case of Marines, the question, What weapons do marines use?" becomes a fascinating topic! Marine Corps, being part of the Department of the Navy, has a diverse portfolio of weapons, ranging from assault rifles to heavy machines guns. In this article, we’re about to delve into the world of marine weapons, exploring which firearms, hand-to-hand combat tools, and crew-served weapons are authorized for use by the fighting men and women of the US Marine Corps.

Assault Weapons and Rifles

Marines can issue a variety of modern and reliable assault rifles in response to various combat operations:

• M27 Infantry Automatic Rifle (IMR): A more reliable and accurate version of the M4 carbine, the M27 IA Rifle is used by squads as a standard-issue light machine gun.
• M4 Carbine:** A versatile, portable firearm used by Marines with 5.56-millimeter ammunition.

  • M4 models: The M16/M4 series is reliable and accurate, with numerous accessory options for customization:

    • Fury variant: Incorporating a 14-inch free-float rail
    • Battle-Sight variant: Providing a folding front and flip-up rear sight, improving accuracy

  • M16A1/M16A2 Full-Size Rifle: Less used today, these vintage variants are still authorized.

Hand-to-Hand Combat Tools

Marine personnel are trained in numerous combat techniques, including: * M9/FDE Beretta Pistol

• Ka-Bar/Fuller Combat Utility/Wound Treatment Tool: Each Marine carries a Ka-bar or similar tool for bayonet use, cutting cords, and opening cans;

  • MACE M-1000 CS Tactical Pepper Spray: Protects against close-range targets by disorienting (10-15 seconds in hot weather, 17-20 seconds in windy/cold weather).

**Crew-served Weapons**

These heavy instruments require multiple personnel to be utilized effectively:

* **M249 SAW/MG**: A belt-fed 5.56 x 45mm machine gun providing suppressive fire within its effective range.
+ **M240-B LMG**: A family of 7.62x51mm NATO variants designed for squad-level weapon operations.
+ **M2HB.50 cal Heavy Machine Gun**
* **Mortar 60mm/81mm/120mm, Frag-12**: Marine squadrons and artillery outfits can employ these indirect-precision weapons to deliver indirect fires.

**Special weapons for specific roles**

Occasionally, Marines may make use of specialized weapons suitable for specific tasks:

**Sniping weapons

* ** Barrett.50 Cal M85 (M107)** for Anti-Materiel weapons operations
* ** SR 25 (Mk11/12)** for the Reconnaissance, Surveillance & Target Acquisition (RST)
* **M249-D SAW (Dragunov)** for enhanced capabilities

Suitable accessories and attachments

There is a wide range, although not exhaustive, among others:

* **Sound-suppressors**: Integrates with the M21 or M4A4

### **Specialized explosives for breaching and mines**