The Most Popular Machine Gun, Ranked

Choose the machine gun you think is the most popular!

Author: Gregor Krambs
Updated on May 1, 2024 06:43
In assessing the efficiency and effectiveness of different machine guns, enthusiasts and experts often delve into detailed comparisons. Such assessments cover various aspects including rate of fire, accuracy, and reliability. These factors significantly impact the preference and popularity rankings among users and experts alike. By enabling a system where individuals can vote for their preferred machine gun, a clearer picture of general opinion is formed. This aids potential users in making informed decisions based on collective insights and experiences. Moreover, the dynamic nature of ongoing voting updates the rankings, providing current preferences at any given time.

What Is the Most Popular Machine Gun?

  1. 1
    12
    votes
    The AK-47 is one of the most popular machine guns in the world due to its reliability, durability, and simplicity. It is also relatively inexpensive to produce and maintain.
    The AK-47, also known as Avtomat Kalashnikova Model 1947, is a widely recognized carbine rifle that has gained legendary status among firearms enthusiasts. It is renowned for its durability, ease of use, and reliability even in adverse conditions.
    • Caliber: 7.62x39mm
    • Action: Gas-operated, rotating bolt
    • Fire modes: Safe, semi-automatic, fully automatic
    • Rate of fire: 600 rounds per minute
    • Effective range: 400 meters
  2. 2
    46
    votes

    M16

    The M16 is a popular machine gun used by the US military and is known for its accuracy, range, and versatility. It has been in use since the Vietnam War and has gone through several upgrades and improvements.
    The M16 is a highly popular military assault rifle renowned for its reliable performance and widespread use worldwide.
    • Type: Assault rifle
    • Manufacturer: Colt's Manufacturing Company
    • Caliber: 5.56x45mm NATO
    • Action: Gas-operated, rotating bolt
    • Effective firing range: 550 meters (point target), 800 meters (area target)
  3. 3
    33
    votes

    Uzi

    The Uzi is a compact submachine gun that is widely used by law enforcement and military forces around the world. It is known for its reliability, ease of use, and compact size.
    The Uzi is a compact submachine gun known for its high rate of fire and reliability. It has been widely produced and used by various military and law enforcement agencies worldwide.
    • Type: Submachine gun
    • Manufacturer: Israel Military Industries
    • Weight: 3.5 kg (7.7 lb) without magazine
    • Length: 650 mm (25.6 in)
    • Barrel Length: 260 mm (10.2 in)
  4. 4
    18
    votes

    M60

    The M60 is a belt-fed machine gun that has been in use by the US military since the 1950s. It is known for its reliability, durability, and firepower. It has been used in many conflicts around the world.
    The M60 is a belt-fed machine gun that has been widely used by various military forces around the world. It is a general-purpose machine gun known for its reliability and firepower.
    • Caliber: 7.62×51mm NATO
    • Weight: 10.5 kg (23.1 lb) (without tripod)
    • Length: 1,143 mm (45.0 in)
    • Rate of fire: 500-650 rounds per minute
    • Effective firing range: 1,100 m (3,600 ft)
  5. 5
    16
    votes
    PK Machine Gun
    MKFI · Public domain
    The PK Machine Gun is a belt-fed machine gun that has been in use by the Russian military since the 1960s. It is known for its reliability, accuracy, and durability. It has been used in many conflicts around the world.
    The PK Machine Gun, also known as the PKM, is a popular general-purpose machine gun designed in the Soviet Union.
    • Type: General-purpose machine gun
    • Place of origin: Soviet Union
    • Designer: Mikhail Kalashnikov
    • Manufacturer: Izhevsk Machine-Building Plant
    • Weight: 9.4 kg (20.7 lb)
  6. 6
    12
    votes
    FN MAG
    MathKnight and Zachi Evenor · CC BY 4.0
    The FN MAG is a belt-fed machine gun that has been in use by many militaries around the world since the 1950s. It is known for its reliability, durability, and accuracy. It has been used in many conflicts around the world.
    The FN MAG, also known as the FN M240, is a belt-fed, gas-operated machine gun designed for medium to long-range engagement. It has a reputation for reliability and effectiveness, earning it widespread adoption around the world.
    • Caliber: 7.62x51mm NATO
    • Weight: 10.8 kg (23.8 lbs)
    • Length: 1,245 mm (49 in)
    • Barrel Length: 627 mm (24.7 in)
    • Rate of Fire: 550-650 rounds per minute
  7. 7
    12
    votes
    The M249 SAW is a belt-fed machine gun that is used by the US military. It is known for its reliability, accuracy, and versatility. It has been used in many conflicts around the world.
    The M249 Squad Automatic Weapon (SAW) is a popular lightweight, gas-operated machine gun designed for squad-level support. It is commonly used by the United States military and other armed forces worldwide.
    • Caliber: 5.56×45mm NATO
    • Rate of Fire: 700-1,000 rounds per minute
    • Barrel Length: 18.5 inches
    • Weight (unloaded): 17 pounds
    • Overall Length: 40.75 inches
  8. 8
    8
    votes

    RPK

    The RPK is a belt-fed machine gun that has been in use by the Russian military since the 1960s. It is known for its reliability, durability, and accuracy. It has been used in many conflicts around the world.
    The RPK is a Soviet-designed light machine gun that is renowned for its reliability and endurance. It is an improved version of the AK-47 assault rifle, featuring a longer barrel and a bipod for increased stability. The RPK is widely considered one of the most popular machine guns in the world due to its ruggedness and versatility.
    • Caliber: 7.62x39mm
    • Barrel length: 23.2 inches (590 mm)
    • Weight: 15.2 pounds (6.9 kg)
    • Effective range: 800 meters
    • Rate of fire: 600 rounds per minute
  9. 9
    10
    votes
    The M240 is a belt-fed machine gun that is used by the US military. It is known for its reliability, accuracy, and durability. It has been used in many conflicts around the world.
    The M240 is a belt-fed, gas-operated machine gun designed for use by infantry forces. It is known for its reliability and versatility, and is widely used by various military organizations around the world.
    • Caliber: 7.62x51mm NATO
    • Weight: 27.6 lbs (12.5 kg)
    • Length: 49.7 inches (126.2 cm)
    • Rate of fire: 550-650 rounds per minute
    • Effective range: 1,800 meters
  10. 10
    2
    votes

    MP5

    The MP5 is a submachine gun that is widely used by law enforcement and military forces around the world. It is known for its reliability, accuracy, and compact size. It has been used in many conflicts around the world.
    The MP5 is a widely recognized submachine gun that was first introduced in the 1960s. It is renowned for its compact size, reliability, and versatility.
    • Caliber: 9x19mm Parabellum
    • Action: Delayed blowback
    • Rate of fire: 800 rounds per minute
    • Effective range: 100 meters
    • Barrel length: 225 mm

Missing your favorite machine gun?

Graphs
Discussion

Ranking factors for popular machine gun

  1. Reliability
    A machine gun should be able to withstand harsh conditions, dirt, and wear while still functioning properly. A popular machine gun is one that does not easily jam, misfire, or require constant maintenance.
  2. Accuracy
    A popular machine gun should provide accurate fire over long distances, enabling the user to engage targets effectively.
  3. Weight and Mobility
    The weight and size of a machine gun are also important factors, as they impact the operator's ability to move and maneuver in various environments and situations. A popular machine gun is typically lightweight, compact, and easy to carry and set up.
  4. Ease of Use
    A popular machine gun should be easy to operate, both in terms of handling and maintenance. The ease with which a machine gun can be assembled, disassembled, and repaired is a critical factor in its overall popularity.
  5. Versatility
    A popular machine gun should be able to adapt to various situations, including different mounting options, ammunition types, and accessories.
  6. Durability
    A popular machine gun should be able to withstand heavy use, harsh environments, and long periods without requiring constant repair or replacement of parts.
  7. Price and Availability
    The cost of owning and maintaining a machine gun can factor into its popularity. A machine gun that is affordable, widely available, and has a low cost of ownership will likely be more popular.
  8. Historical and Cultural Significance
    Machine guns with notable historical or cultural significance, such as those used in significant wars or conflicts, may generate interest and increase popularity.
  9. Reputation
    A machine gun's reputation among military and law enforcement agencies, as well as within the gun enthusiast community, can significantly impact its popularity and desirability. A positive reputation for performance, reliability, and effectiveness can greatly increase the demand for a particular machine gun.

About this ranking

This is a community-based ranking of the most popular machine gun. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or machine gun is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!

Statistics

  • 1380 views
  • 167 votes
  • 10 ranked items

Movers & Shakers

Voting Rules

A participant may cast an up or down vote for each machine gun once every 24 hours. The rank of each machine gun is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.

More information on most popular machine gun

Machine guns have been a critical part of military operations for over a century, and they continue to play a vital role in modern warfare. These weapons can fire rounds rapidly and accurately, providing a significant advantage in combat situations. One of the most popular machine guns in the world is the AK-47. This weapon has become a symbol of warfare and revolution, used by armed forces and guerrilla fighters alike. It's renowned for its reliability and durability, making it a go-to weapon for many soldiers. Another popular machine gun is the M16. This firearm is the standard issue rifle for the United States military, and has been used in conflicts around the world since the 1960s. Its lightweight design and accuracy make it a favorite among soldiers. Other notable machine guns include the FN Minimi, the M249 SAW, and the M60. Each of these weapons has its own unique features and advantages, making them popular choices for various military operations. Overall, machine guns play a critical role in modern warfare, and their popularity reflects their significance in combat situations.

Share this article