machinegun

A machine gun is a fully automatic, rapid-fire firearm designed to expel numerous rounds in a single burst or continuously by a single pull of the trigger. Machine guns typically operate by harnessing the energy of the fired cartridge to eject the spent casing, chamber a new round, and cock the firing mechanism. They are distinguished from semi-automatic firearms, which require a separate trigger pull for each shot, and from assault rifles, which are typically select-fire (capable of both semi-automatic and automatic fire) but are generally smaller and lighter than machine guns.

The development of the machine gun began in the late 19th century, with notable early examples including the Gatling gun and the Maxim gun. These weapons revolutionized warfare by providing unprecedented firepower on the battlefield. Modern machine guns come in various forms, including light machine guns, medium machine guns, and heavy machine guns, differing in size, weight, caliber, and intended role. Light machine guns are often crew-served or can be operated by a single soldier, providing mobile support. Heavier variants are typically mounted on tripods or vehicles and are used for sustained suppressive fire or anti-materiel roles. Ammunition is usually supplied from belts or large magazines.