A&K M249 Para

Brief History

M249 or Light Machine Gun represents the American version of the Belgian squad machine gun FN Minimi. The initial model was designed from the beginning to provide military troops with a modern squad machine gun, lighter than existing ones, with excellent performance and reliability. The FN Minimi model was designed in 1976, and the Americanized version appeared in 1984, which is still actively used today with success. The performance of this machine gun approaches that of an assault weapon in terms of accuracy but with much greater firepower. In case of necessity, this machine gun is capable of operating with standard M4 magazines. This machine gun has made its mark in all of America's military actions since 1989. The version to be presented is called Para, from Paratrooper. It is intended for airborne troops. It is smaller and lighter to improve maneuverability.

Exterior of the Replica

The replica closely resembles the real weapon. The weight and materials used convey a sense of authenticity. The replica is primarily made from pressed steel plate, riveted and welded. The result is a compact and solid body. Even though we are talking about the "Para" version, the 6.5 kg weight does not allow this replica to have enviable maneuverability, but it does not need to. The firepower provided compensates for any shortcomings. The outer barrel of the replica can be removed relatively easily compared to the real weapon, allowing quick access to the inner barrel and hop-up chamber. The top handle does not serve for transporting the replica but only for supporting the outer barrel during disassembly. The foregrip of the replica serves as a compartment for the battery. On the upper part of the body of the replica, there is a standard rail that allows the mounting of advanced sighting devices. The stock of the replica is retractable, allowing for a reduction in length to improve maneuverability. Great care must be taken when extending the stock; after extension, it must be rotated to lock. The replica is equipped with a front bipod for easier support, allowing for a comfortable position for an extended period. Caution is advised with the bipod as it is very fragile in certain situations.

Interior of the Replica

The gearbox of the replica is specially designed for this model. Its design allows for good reliability over time, regardless of the power of the installed spring. The spring guide can be easily removed to allow for the replacement of the spring with the gearbox installed. The gears, piston, cylinder, piston head, and cylinder are standard V2/3, allowing for potential upgrades. The motor is of the short type. The bearings are special, with rollers. The electrical system is particularly simple due to the lack of semi-automatic function. This replica, like the real weapon, can only operate in fully automatic mode. The contact of the replica is solid, designed for high currents. The replica has a speed of approximately 120-125 m/s measured with 0.20g BBs. The hop-up chamber is made of metal and allows for easy adjustment of the hop-up adjustment.

Power Supply

The package includes a 9.6V 1100 mAh NiMH battery and a charger for this battery. It is recommended to use NiMH batteries of a maximum of 9.6V and LiPo of 7.4V. The space for storing the battery is inside the foregrip. Disassembling the foregrip is relatively simple, by pulling it forward and down. It is recommended to use high-quality BBs weighing 0.25g or 0.28g. Reusing BBs or using low-quality BBs is not recommended as it may damage the replica.