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Post by samSForce on Jan 1, 2008 7:10:11 GMT -5
"Navy SEALs use an extensive array of firearms of both U.S. and foreign manufacture, several of which have been specifically developed for them or U.S. SOF in general. SEALs have latitude, within designated parameters, in their selection of primary and secondary weapons. The highly-accurate and versatile M4A1 Carbine is the standard issue weapon for SEAL operators, while pistols are usually carried as backup weapons. Weapons choice is always mission-dependent and the SEALs have a wide array of firearms from which to select the precise ones. Following is a representative list of firearms that Navy SEALs currently use, within each class of weapon:"
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Post by samSForce on Jan 1, 2008 7:10:36 GMT -5
"MK23
The MK23 Mod O .45 cal SOCOM offensive handgun was developed by H&K specifically for U.S. Special Operations Command, and in 1996 was adopted as a service pistol under the designation MK23 Mod.0. This is a .45 caliber weapon with excellent knock-down power and accuracy, but its tradeoff is that it’s larger, heavier and less wieldy than the Sig Sauer P226 and P228. The MK23 gives shooters absolute match grade accuracy, while it also exceeds the most stringent USG operational requirements for a combat handgun. The MK23 passed the following tests to ensure it would stand up to rigorous Navy SEAL use:
* 30,000 round endurance firing test with + P ammunition * Extreme temperatures +73°C/-54°C (+ 160/-60 F) * 96 hours saline mist test * Sand, dust and sludge tests * 96 hour surf simulation * Harshest drop tests * Accuracy and the highest precision
The MK23 is extremely reliable. In environmental testing, an unlubricated pistol was exposed to two hours of seawater at 66 feet, and in surf, sand, mud, and icing conditions. In firing testing, all pistols averaged 6,000 rounds between stoppage (MRBS). And in more than 450 accuracy test firings from a precision firing fixture, MK23 pistols far exceeded the USG requirement, averaging under 37mm.
The MK23 has a special recoil-reduction system, which softens recoil forces to the components and shooter by 40%. It is a double/single-action pistol with a 12-round magazine. It is designed to attach a KAC Sound Suppressor, which is so effective that U.S. SOF say that all they can hear when the gun is fired is the sound of the action. The MK23 can also attach a high-tech Laser Aiming Module (LAM) which consists of a 3-dot system of white, self-luminous tritium dots. The LAM operates in one of 4 selected modes: visible laser only; visible laser/flashlight; infrared laser only; and infrared laser/illuminator. The MK23 is kept in the armories of both the SEALs and the Special Boat Teams. Specifications:
* Manufacturer: Heckler & Koch * Caliber: 45 ACP * Weight w/o magazine: 4.22 lbs. (w/suppressor) * Length: 9.65 in. (16.56 w/suppressor) * Barrel Length: 5.875 in. * Capacity: 12+1"
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Post by samSForce on Jan 1, 2008 7:10:56 GMT -5
"M11
The M11 Sig Sauer P-228 was introduced in 1989. It is a compact version of the Sig P-226, just 7.1 inches long and only 1.5 inches wide. The Navy SEALs and Special Boat Teams consider it a favorite, and use it as their standard carry pistol as it is small, light, durable, accurate and easy to conceal. The M11 is a recoil-operated, semi-automatic pistol that fires a 9mm NATO round in both single- and double-action modes from a 13-round magazine.
In 2004, SIGARMS of Exeter, NH released a limited edition of specially serialized P-226 pistols produced to the exact same specifications as those which have been the official sidearm of the Navy SEALs since 1986. Designated SIG P226-9-NAVY, this unique version includes special phosphate corrosion-resistant finish on internal parts, contrast sights, a slide engraved with an anchor to designate them as Naval Special Warfare pistols, a unique serial # starting with NSW 0001, and certificate of authenticity.
The manufacturer raised over $100,000 for the Special Operations Warrior Foundation through the sale of these NSW serialized pistols. Established in 1980, the Foundation provides support, primarily scholarships, to ensure that all the children of Special Operations personnel who have given their lives in service to our country, will be able to go to college.
Specifications:
* Manufacturer: Sigarms * Caliber: 9mm * Weight w/o magazine: 1.10 lbs. * Length: 7.1 in. * Barrel Length: 3.9 in. * Capacity: 13+1"
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Post by samSForce on Jan 1, 2008 7:11:32 GMT -5
"M4A1
The Colt M4A1 carbine is the primary weapon used by SEAL operators. A shorter, more compact version of the M16A2 rifle, it was specially designed for U.S. Special Operations Forces. In 1994, U.S. Special Operations Command (USSOCOM) and the Navy developed the Special Operations Peculiar (SOPMOD) M4A1 Accessory Kit to make this weapon exceptional in versatility, lethality, and effectiveness. The M4A1 is a high-tech, multiple-use assault rifle that can be configured by the operator with multiple combinations of advanced optics, lasers and lighting systems for rapid and accurate target acquisition in daylight or at night. It fires in both semi- and automatic modes, and is effective for both close-in engagements and long-range targets. The M4A1 excels in Close Quarters Battle and Counterterrorist operations. It fires a high-velocity 5.56mm round, essential when taking on terrorists wearing body armor or bullet-proof vests. This rifle can also be quickly and easily converted to a grenade launcher or shotgun.
Future Version
2005-2010 Integrated Carbine – The SOPMOD Block 3 upgrade will result in a more streamlined version of the M4A1 Carbine, designated the Integrated Carbine. It will incorporate all of the refinements for the M4A1 carbine by getting the optics and lasers off the weapon and into the weapon itself, and it will provide a thermal sighting device. Mode switches and buttons will be integrated into the vertical grip to activate lasers, thermal and other sights, and visible light. The thermal sighting component might very well have the ability to be linked to Joint Surveillance and Target Attack Radar System (JSTARS).
Specifications:
* Caliber: 5.56mm * Weight: 5.56 pounds without magazine or 6.65 pounds with loaded 30-round magazine * Length: 33.0 inches with stock extended, or 29.8 inches with stock retracted * Barrel Length: 14.5 inches * Muzzle Velocity: 3,020 ft/sec with M193 round or 2,900 ft/sec with M844 NATO round * Muzzle Energy: 1,113 ft-lbs with M193 round or 1,213 ft-lbs with MM855 NATO round * Maximum Effective Range: 600 meters w/ M193 round or 656 yds w/ M855/SS109 NATO round * Cyclic Rate of Fire: 700 to 950 rounds per minute * Fire Selection: Semiautomatic or full automatic
SOPMOD M4A1 Accessory Kit Block 1
This unique modification and accessory kit allows the operator to tailor his weapon for a specific operation or mission conditions. It consists of optical sights, night vision devices, laser aiming devices and/or lights that can be mounted on the weapon’s top or side rails. This kit also has barrel assemblies to convert the weapon to a grenade launcher or shotgun. Following are the accessories and their capabilities:
* Trijicon Reflex Sight – rapid acquisition on close targets, or when target or operator is moving * Aimpoint Comp-M – uses both-eyes-open with red-dot sighting system for target acquisition * Holographic Display Sight – instant target acquisition under any light situation * Visible Light Illuminator – provides white light when night-vision goggles are not sufficient * AN/PVS 14 Night Vision – night vision to locate, identify, and engage targets from 20-300 meters * AN/PEQ-2 Infrared Illuminator/Aiming Laser – allows M4A1 to be effectively employed to 300 meters with night-vision goggles, by amplifying the light capability. * ANPEQ-5 Visible Laser – fast and accurate means of aiming, primarily use in CQB/CRE. * Forward Handgrip – added support, or can be used as a monopod in a fixed shooting position * Crane Stock – redesigned collapsible stock with storage for batteries for accessory equipment * Quick-Attach Suppressor – sound suppressor that also minimizes muzzle blast * Back-up Iron Sight – provides aiming ability out to 300 meters Combat Sling – allows safe and ready cross-body or patrol carry and limits muzzle sweep * M203 Grenade Launcher – used as an anti-personnel or anti-light armor weapon, particularly useful in raids and ambushes. * 870P Masterkey – a Remington Model 870 Police 12-gauge shotgun that has been modified to attach to the underside of the M4A1 Carbine. It can use special breaching rounds for shooting off door hinges, as well as normal shotgun ammunition for room clearing."
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Post by samSForce on Jan 1, 2008 7:12:03 GMT -5
"M14
The M14 is a magazine-fed, gas-operated semi-automatic 7.62mm (.30-caliber) rifle still used by the Navy SEALs. It deploys a 20-round magazine, and has an effective range well beyond 500 meters at a rate of 750 rounds per minute. Operated from the shoulder, it is designed primarily for semi-automatic fire. It was developed from a long line of experimental weapons based on the M1 Garand of the 1940’s. It was planned to replace four weapons: the M1 Garand, M1 Carbine, M3 “Grease Gun,�� and M1918 Browning Automatic Rifle (BAR). However, it only excelled at replacing the M1 Garand, and the BAR was more effectively replaced by the M60 machine gun.
The U.S. Army selected the M14 rifle in 1957. Production was halted in 1964, by which time over 1 million units had been manufactured. The M14 served briefly as the primary infantry weapon in Vietnam until the late 1960’s. It had the disadvantage of being long and heavy, and unwieldy in thick brush. And while its powerful 7.62mm x 51mm round extended its range and penetrated cover, it also made the weapon virtually uncontrollable in full-automatic mode. The M14 was replaced by the M16A1 5.56mm assault rifle in 1966-1968 by direction of Secretary of Defense Robert McNamara.
Although the M14 was phased out in the 1960’s, M14 variants are still used in the U.S. military. Navy SEALs started using modified M14s as sniper rifles as early as Vietnam. They have used them in Afghanistan and Iraq, primarily as designated marksman and sniper rifles. Navy SEALs keep the M14 in inventory due to its excellent accuracy, effectiveness at long range, and strong takedown capabilities of the 7.62mm round. Specifications:
* Caliber: 7.62 * Weight (Empty): 8.7 lbs. * Length: 44.14 in. * Effective Range: 1500 ft. * Firing Rate: 750 rounds per min. * Muzzle Velocity: 2,800 feet per sec. * Feed: 20 rounds"
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Post by samSForce on Jan 1, 2008 7:12:26 GMT -5
"MK11 Sniper Weapon System (SWS)
The US Navy MK11 Mod 0 Sniper Weapon System (SWS) is based on the highly-accurate SR-25 automatic rifle. It was originally conceived and constructed to meet a requirement placed by the Navy SEALs. The MK11 is a highly accurate and durable, precision semiautomatic sniper rifle that operates like an M16 or M4A1, and can deliver a 7.62mm round out to 1,500 yards. Due to its high degree of accuracy, (.5 inch MOA), it is has won acceptance by U.S. Special Operations Forces as one of the finest semiautomatic sniper rifles in the world.
The MK11 system consists of the rifle, 20 round box magazines, QD scope rings, Leupold Vari-X Mil-dot riflescope, Harris swivel-base bipod on a Knight's mount, QD sound suppressor, and back up iron sights. The free-floating 20 inch barrel and free-floating Rail Accessory System allow for extreme accuracy. This weapon fires the 7.62 NATO round, and is not capable of fully automatic fire. Specifications:
* Caliber: 7.62 * Weight (Empty): 15.3 lbs. * Length: 45.5 in. * Effective Range: 1500 ft. * Firing Rate: 750 rounds per min. * Muzzle Velocity: 2,951.5 feet per sec. * Feed: 20/10/5 rounds"
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Post by samSForce on Jan 1, 2008 7:12:53 GMT -5
"M82A1 Heavy Sniper Rifle
The M82A1 is a high-powered heavy sniper rifle used primarily against targets like radar cabins, trucks, and parked aircraft. It is known as the “Light Fifty�� for its .50 caliber BMG (12.7 mm) load. The U.S. Military purchased significant numbers of M82A1’s during operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm in Kuwait and Iraq. It’s known as the SASR — "Special Applications Scoped Rifle", and is used as an anti-materiel weapon and Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) tool. This short-recoil, semi-automatic rifle has a long effective range, (record shot of 2,500 meters) and high energy. It also uses highly-effective ammunition, and can easily penetrate Type IV body armor, almost all building materials, hard armors, and level 8 ballistic glass (the strongest available). The Navy SEALs used the M82A1 extensively in Somalia in 1993 against enemy “technical�� vehicles filled with armed outlaws. Specifications:
* Weight: 31 lbs * Length: 48 or 57 inches * Barrel Length: 20 or 29 inches * Cartridge: 12.7 x 99mm, NATO * Caliber: .50 BMG * Action: Recoil operation, rotating bolt * Sights: 10x telescopic * Rate of Fire: Semi-automatic * Muzzle Velocity: 853 m/sec * Maximum Effective Range: 1,800 m * Maximum Range: 6,800 meters * Feed System: 10-round box magazine"
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Post by samSForce on Jan 1, 2008 7:13:17 GMT -5
"MP5
The Navy SEALs and many other elite counter-terrorist units around the world – to include the British SAS, Germany’s GSG 9, and Spain’s GEO -- use the compact submachine gun. What’s unique on this automatic machine gun is the roller-delayed blowback system which operates the weapon in a fully locked breach position. Where other automatic systems rely on the weight and velocity of the returning breach to seal the chamber the MP5 does this through a series of locks and cams.
The MP5 was first used by GSG-9 in action against terrorists who hijacked a Lufthansa aircraft on October 17, 1977 and flew it to Mogadishu, Somalia. It was also prominently displayed in pictures of the SAS takedown of the terrorist-held Iranian Embassy in 1980. The MP5 has also seen action in U.S. operations such as the Grenada and Panama invasions.
The MP5N Navy Model, developed by H&K especially for the U.S. Navy SEALs, fires from a closed and locked bolt in either the semiautomatic or automatic modes. This provides superior accuracy, especially critical on the first shot, which can mean the difference between life and death. The MP5 fires a 9mm parabellum round in single shot fire, three-round bursts, or full automatic at 800 rounds per minute. It has a retractable buttstock, a removable suppressor, and illuminating flashlight operated by a pressure switch that is custom-fitted to the pistol grip.
The SEALs primarily use the MP5 for Counterterrorism, Close Quarters Combat, hostage rescue, and personal protection operations. It is compact, concealable, durable, maneuverable and hard-hitting. It is easily controllable and the recoil is extremely smooth, allowing the shooter to obtain highly accurate shot placement. Depending on the mission, the MP5 may be operationally used in conjunction with the M4A1, for increased firepower. H&K has an MP5SD model for missions where stealth and secrecy require fully-integrated sound suppression. It also makes a version called the MP5K Machine Pistol, which weigh only 4.4 lbs, is less than 13 inches in length, and can be fired from inside a specially designed briefcase. This variant has three firing modes – semi, three-round burst, and full automatic.
Specifications:
* Caliber: 9x19 NATO * Weight: 6.47 lbs * Barrel Length: 8.85 in. * Overall Length: * Stock Extended: 27.25 in. * Stock Retracted: 21.00 in. * Cyclic Rate: 800 rpm"
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Post by samSForce on Jan 1, 2008 7:13:54 GMT -5
"M60E3 & MK43 Mod 0
The M60 machine gun is an air-cooled, gas-operated light machine gun that fires 7.62mm rounds from a disintegrating belt of M13 links. Introduced in 1957, the M60 is still used by all branches of the U.S. military, and continues to be manufactured. The Navy SEALs use two M60 variants: the M60E3 (a lightweight version) and the M60E4 (designated MK43 Mod 0) by the U.S. Navy. While the M60 is most effective when mounted on a tripod, an experienced operator can accurately fire it from the shoulder. Marine Corps doctrine states that it is capable of suppressive fire on area targets out to 1,500 meters if the gunner is highly skilled.
While the M60 was introduced to the U.S. military as a crew-served weapon, the Navy SEALs operated it as a squad automatic weapon in Vietnam. A single SEAL was designated the M60 man and carried both the machine gun and its ammunition. The Navy SEALs have continued to use and upgrade the M60E3, (which came out in the 1980’s), because of its portability and low weight for its caliber. The MK43 Mod 0 is an improved model that was developed for the U.S. Navy SEALs in the 1990’s to replace their existing stock of M60E3 machine guns fitted with shorter "assault barrels". It has extra rails for mounting accessories, and a quick-change barrel. The M60 machine gun is gradually being phased out in favor of the heavier M240 machine gun, which is more reliable. Specifications:
* Weight: 23.1 lbs * Length: 42 in. * Barrel Length: 22 in. * Cartridge: 7.62 x 51mm NATO * Caliber: 7.62mm * Action: gas-operated, open bolt * Rate of Fire: 550 rpm * Muzzle Velocity: 2,800 ft/sec. * Effective Range: 1,200 yd. * Maximum Range: 4,074 yd. * Feed System: Disintegrating belt"
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Post by samSForce on Jan 1, 2008 7:14:13 GMT -5
"M240 Machine Gun
The M240 is a highly reliable, belt-fed, gas-operated, air-cooled, 7.62mm machine gun, selected to replace the aging M60. It has an effective range of 1.1 miles, and fires 650 – 950 rounds per minute, controlled by three different settings. It is versatile weapon that can be mounted on the M122A1 tripod, a bipod, on vehicles, or on aircraft. The M240G has an “infantry modification kit�� for ground use, which consists of a flash suppressor, front sight, carrying handle for the barrel, buttstock, infantry-length pistol grip, bipod and rear-sight assembly. Although it is about six lbs heavier, the M240 series is superior to the M60 in reliability and maintainability. Specifications:
* Weight: 27.6 lbs * Length: 49 in. * Barrel Length: 24.68 in. * Cartridge: 7.62 x 51mm NATO * Action: Gas-operated, open bolt * Rate of Fire: 650–950 rounds/min. * Muzzle Velocity: 2,970 ft/sec. * Effective Range: 1,970 yd. * Maximum Range: 4,073 yd. * Feed System: 100-or 200-round disintegrating belt"
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Post by samSForce on Jan 1, 2008 7:14:39 GMT -5
"M4 Super 90
Navy SEALs use the Benelli M4 Super 90, Mossberg 590, and Remington 870 combat shotguns. The Benelli M4 Super 90, also known as the M1014 Joint Service Shotgun, is generally preferred. It was first delivered to the U.S. Marine Corps in 1999 after intense testing. The M4 Super 90 is a gas-operated, semi-automatic, magazine-fed 12-gauge shotgun with an extended buttstock. It features an entirely new “auto-regulating gas operated�� (ARGO) system that eliminates the need for complex mechanisms. The M4 Super 90 self-regulates for cartridges of varying lengths and power levels, firing 2.75 in. (70mm) and 3 in. (76mm) shells of differing power levels without any operator adjustments, and in any combination. This shotgun also has a Rail Integration System designed to attach scopes, laser illuminators, night vision sights, and flashlights.
The M4 Super 90 is built on a modular assembly basis, enabling it to be modified without any tools. This is especially useful in the field, in a changing tactical environment. This weapon is reliable and durable, and can operate for at least 2,500 rounds without having to replace any major parts. The M4 Super 90 (M1014) is planned for issue to all the U.S. military services. It replaces the Remington 870, Mossberg 590, and Winchester 1100/1200 tactical shotguns. The M4 Super 90 is durable, and reliable in all weather conditions. Specifications:
* Weight: 8.42 lb. * Length: 34.9 in. * Barrel Length: 18.5 in. * Caliber: 12 gauge * Action: Gas-actuate semi-automatic * Range: 40-50 meters with “00�� * Sights: Ghost rings"
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