When was the M60 Made?
The M60 is a widely recognized and iconic machine gun, used by the United States military during the mid-20th century. Its development and production dates back to the 1950s, with a rich history that spans several decades. In this article, we will explore when the M60 was made, its development, production, and significant events associated with it.
Background and Development
The M60 was designed and developed by the United States Army in the early 1950s as a successor to the M1919 Browning machine gun. The Army recognized the need for a more modern, lightweight, and reliable machine gun that could keep up with the advancements in combat tactics and technology.
In 1950, the Army issued a request for proposal (RFP) for a new machine gun, which was designed to fire a 7.62mm cartridge. Several companies, including General Motors, Remington, and Fairchild, responded to the RFP with their own designs. The M60 was ultimately chosen for its reliability, durability, and ease of use.
Production and Introduction
The M60 began production in 1957, with the first units delivered to the United States Army in 1958. The initial production run of 10,000 M60s was manufactured by General Motors’ Hydramatic Division, under contract with the Army.
Key Features and Characteristics
The M60 is a gas-operated, air-cooled machine gun with a bolt action that cycles 450 rounds per minute. It features a hinged door on the right side, which allows for easy feeding and cleaning of the weapon. The M60 also has a folding carrying handle, making it more portable and easier to transport.
Table: Key Features and Characteristics of the M60
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Type | Gas-operated, air-cooled machine gun |
| Caliber | 7.62x51mm |
| Action | Bolt action |
| Rate of Fire | 450 rounds per minute |
| Hinged Door | Right side |
| Carrying Handle | Folding |
Combat History and Operations
The M60 was used extensively during the Vietnam War, where it saw action in a variety of roles, including ground support, reconnaissance, and search and destroy missions. The M60 was praised for its reliability and accuracy, and was used by infantry units, armor, and special forces.
Statistics and Production Numbers
Over 13 million M60s were produced during its production run, making it one of the most widely produced machine guns in history. The M60 saw service in several conflicts, including the Vietnam War, the Gulf War, and the War in Afghanistan.
Table: Production Statistics and Combat History
| Statistic | Value |
|---|---|
| Production Run | 13 million |
| Number of Conflicts | 3 |
| Notable Conflicts | Vietnam War, Gulf War, War in Afghanistan |
| Country of Origin | United States |
Legacy and Obsolescence
The M60 was eventually phased out of service in the early 2000s, replaced by more modern machine guns, such as the M249 SAW (Squad Automatic Weapon). Although the M60 is no longer in service with the US military, it remains a popular collector’s item and is still used by some law enforcement and civilian groups.
Conclusion
The M60 machine gun was made in 1957, with the first units delivered to the US Army in 1958. With a production run of over 13 million units, it remains one of the most widely produced machine guns in history. The M60 was used extensively during the Vietnam War and saw service in several other conflicts. While it is no longer in service with the US military, it remains an important part of military history and a testament to American innovation and ingenuity.
Timeline: Key Events and Milestones
- 1950: US Army issues RFP for new machine gun
- 1957: M60 begins production
- 1958: First M60s delivered to US Army
- 1960s: M60 sees extensive use during the Vietnam War
- 1980s: M60 begins to be replaced by more modern machine guns
- 2000s: M60 phased out of service with the US military
