View source for M60 machine gun

{{Short description|American military machine gun deployed 1960}}
{{other uses|M60 (disambiguation)}}
{{Use mdy dates|date=May 2017}}
{{Infobox weapon
| name               = Machine Gun, Caliber 7.62&nbsp;mm, M60
| image              = M60.jpg
| image_size         = 300
| alt                = 
| caption            = M60 machine gun with bipod extended
| type               = [[General-purpose machine gun]] <br />[[Medium machine gun]]
<!-- Type selection -->
| service            = 1960–present
| wars               = {{plainlist|
* [[Vietnam War]]
* [[Laotian Civil War]]
* [[Dominican Civil War]]<ref>{{cite magazine |url=https://content.time.com/time/subscriber/article/0,33009,898727,00.html |title=Dominican Republic: The Coup That Became a War |magazine=TIME |date=1965-05-07 |access-date=September 30, 2022 |archive-date=October 25, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231025192049/https://content.time.com/time/subscriber/article/0,33009,898727,00.html |url-status=live}}</ref>
* [[Cambodian Civil War]]
* [[Moro conflict]]
* [[The Troubles]]
* [[Lebanese Civil War]]
* [[Cambodian–Vietnamese War]]
* [[Sino-Vietnamese War]]<ref name="浴火重生——对越自卫反击战对我国轻武器发展的影响">{{cite web |title=浴火重生——对越自卫反击战对我国轻武器发展的影响 |url=https://m.fx361.com/news/2014/0923/3130795.html |date=23 Sep 2014 |access-date=11 Nov 2022 |archive-date=June 5, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230605042836/https://m.fx361.com/news/2014/0923/3130795.html |url-status=live}}</ref>
* [[Salvadoran Civil War]]
* [[Operation Urgent Fury]]
* [[Operation Just Cause]]
* [[Gulf War|Persian Gulf War]]
* [[Operation Gothic Serpent]]
* [[War in Afghanistan (2001–2021)|War in Afghanistan]]
* [[Iraq War]]
* [[Cambodian–Thai border stand-off]]
* [[Colombian armed conflict (1964–present)|Colombian armed conflict]]
* [[Insurgency in the Philippines]]
* [[Bougainville conflict]]
* [[Myanmar civil war (2021–present)]]<ref>{{cite web |last1=Noir |first1=War |title=x.com |url=https://x.com/war_noir/status/1758883374490370424 |website=X (formerly Twitter) |access-date=7 June 2024}}</ref>
* various others
}}
<!-- Production history -->
| designer           = 
| number             = 
| length             = {{convert|1105|mm|in|abbr=on}}
| action             = [[Gas-operated reloading|Gas-operated]], short-stroke gas piston,<ref name="m60modfire">{{cite web |title=Modern Firearms – M60 |url=http://world.guns.ru/machine/usa/m60-e.html |access-date=March 6, 2012 |date=2010-10-27 |archive-date=April 26, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160426062209/http://world.guns.ru/machine/usa/m60-e.html |url-status=live}}</ref> [[open bolt|opened]] [[rotating bolt]]
| origin             = United States
| is_ranged          = yes
<!-- Service history -->
| used_by            = See ''[[#Users|Users]]''
| design_date        = 1952–1957<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.forgottenweapons.com/light-machine-guns/t52e3-an-m60-prototype/ |title=T52E3 – An M60 Prototype |work=Forgotten Weapons |date=March 14, 2012 |access-date=July 17, 2016 |archive-date=January 30, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210130215044/https://www.forgottenweapons.com/light-machine-guns/t52e3-an-m60-prototype/ |url-status=live}}</ref>
| manufacturer       = {{plainlist|
*[[Saco Defense]]
*[[U.S. Ordnance]]}}
| unit_cost          = US$6,000 (M60E3)<ref name=fasM60page />
| production_date    = 1957–present
| variants           = See ''[[#Variants|Variants]]''
<!-- General specifications -->
| weight             = {{convert|10.5|kg|lb|2|abbr=on}}
| part_length        = {{convert|560|mm|abbr=on|1}}
<!-- Ranged weapon specifications -->
| cartridge          = [[7.62×51mm NATO]]
| caliber            = 7.62&nbsp;mm (0.308 in)
| rate               = 550–650 rounds/min<ref>{{Cite web |title=M60E3 7.62mm Machine Gun |url=https://fas.org/man/dod-101/sys/land/m60e3.htm |access-date=2021-03-10 |website=fas.org |archive-date=October 7, 2000 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20001007185147/http://fas.org/man/dod-101/sys/land/m60e3.htm |url-status=live}}</ref>
| velocity           = 2,800 ft/s (853 m/s)
| range              = 1,200 yd (1,100 m)<ref name=fasM60page />
| max_range          = {{convert|4073|yd|m|abbr=on}}<ref name=fasM60page />
<!-- Standardizing "feed" description w/ that of M60, M240, and Mk 48 Mod 0 -->
| feed               = Disintegrating [[Belt (firearm)|belt]] with [[M13 Link]]s
| sights             = [[Iron sight]]s
}}

The '''M60''', officially the '''Machine Gun, Caliber 7.62&nbsp;mm, M60''', is a family of American [[general-purpose machine gun]]s firing [[7.62×51mm NATO]] [[Cartridge (firearms)|cartridges]] from a disintegrating [[Belt (firearms)|belt]] of [[M13 link]]s. There are several types of ammunition approved for use in the M60, including [[Full metal jacket bullet|ball]], [[Tracer ammunition|tracer]], and [[Armor-piercing shell|armor-piercing]] rounds.<ref name=fasM60page>[http://www.fas.org/man/dod-101/sys/land/m60e3.htm The M60] {{Webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20001007185147/http://www.fas.org/man/dod-101/sys/land/m60e3.htm |date=October 7, 2000}}. Federation of American Scientists.</ref>

It was adopted in 1960 and issued to units beginning in 1960. It has served with every branch of the [[United States Armed Forces|U.S. military]] and still serves with the armed forces of other nations. Its manufacture and continued upgrade for military and commercial purchase continues into the 21st century, although it has been replaced or supplemented in most roles by other designs, most notably the [[M240 machine gun]] in U.S. service.<ref name="Polmar2005">{{cite book |author=Norman Polmar |title=The Naval Institute guide to the ships and aircraft of the U.S. fleet|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=8MwyTX-iA2wC&pg=PA500 |access-date=November 2, 2011 |date=January 15, 2005|publisher=Naval Institute Press |isbn=978-1-59114-685-8 |page=500}}</ref>

==Overview==
{{more citations needed|section|date=April 2021}}
[[File:M60 machine gun DA-ST-84-04992.jpg|thumb|left|A camouflaged infantryman armed with an M60 machine gun.]]

The M60 is a belt-fed machine gun that fires the [[7.62×51mm NATO]] cartridge (similar to [[.308 Winchester]]), which is commonly used in larger rifles, such as the [[M14 rifle|M14]]. It is generally used as a [[crew-served weapon]] and operated by a team of two or three individuals. The team consists of the gunner, the assistant gunner (AG), and the ammunition bearer. The gun's weight and the amount of ammunition it can consume when fired make it difficult for a single soldier to carry and operate. The gunner carries the weapon and between 200 and 1,000 rounds of ammunition depending on strength and stamina. The assistant carries a spare [[Gun barrel|barrel]] and extra [[ammunition]] and reloads and spots targets for the gunner. The ammunition bearer carries additional ammunition and the [[tripod#Firearms|tripod]] with associated traversing and elevation mechanism, if issued, and fetches more ammunition as needed during firing.{{citation needed|date=June 2024}}

[[File:DF-ST-90-04665.jpg|thumb|left|A U.S. airman firing an M60 from the standing position during the Defender Challenge competition in 1988.]]
The M60 can be accurately fired at short ranges from the shoulder thanks to its design. This was an initial requirement for the design and a hold-over in concept from the [[M1918 Browning Automatic Rifle]]. It may also be fired from the integral bipod, [[M2 tripod|M122 tripod]], and some other mounts.<ref name="m60manual">{{cite web |url=https://savannaharsenal.files.wordpress.com/2012/01/m60-machinegun.pdf |title=OPERATOR'S MANUAL FOR MACHINE GUN, 7.62-MM, M60 W/E (1005-00-605-7710) (EIC:4AJ) AND MACHINE GUN, 7.62-MM, M60D W/E (1005-00-909-3002) (EIC:4A8), April 1998 |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20220124232630/https://savannaharsenal.files.wordpress.com/2012/01/m60-machinegun.pdf |archive-date= January 24, 2022}}</ref>

M60 ammunition comes in a cloth [[bandolier]] containing a cardboard box of 100 pre-linked rounds. The M60 uses the M13 ammunition link, a change from the older M1 link system with which it was not compatible. The cloth bandolier is reinforced to allow it to be hung from the current version of the feed tray. Historically, units in Vietnam used B3A cans from [[C-ration]]s packs locked into the ammunition box attachment system to roll the ammunition belts over for a straighter and smoother feed to the loading port to enhance reliability of feed. The later models changed the ammunition box attachment point and made this adaptation unnecessary.<ref>{{cite book |last1=Dockery |first1=Kevin |title=The M60 Machine Gun |date=2012 |publisher=Osprey Publishing |pages=30}}</ref>

The M60 has been adopted by various military agencies around the world. It also has been updated and modernized throughout the years to meet modern military requirements.{{citation needed|date=June 2024}}

==History==
{{more citations needed|section|date=July 2009}}
[[File:T44.jpg|thumb|left|The experimental T-44 machine gun developed from the German [[FG 42]] and [[MG 42]] machine guns.]]

The M60 machine gun began development in the late 1940s as a program for a new, lighter 7.62&nbsp;mm machine gun. It was partly derived from German guns of World War II (most notably the [[FG 42]] and the [[MG 42]]),<ref>Military Small Arms of the 20th Century. Ian Hogg & John Weeks. Krause Publications. 2000. p. 379.</ref><ref>Weapons: An International Encyclopedia From 5000 B.C. To 2000 A.D. Diagram Visual, p. 217. {{ISBN|0-312-03950-6}}.</ref> but it contained American innovations as well. The final evaluation version was designated the T161E3. It was intended to replace the [[M1918 Browning Automatic Rifle]] and [[M1919 Browning machine gun#M1919A6|M1919A6 Browning machine gun]] in the squad automatic weapon role, and in the medium machine gun role. One of the weapons tested against it during its procurement process was the [[FN MAG]].

The [[United States Army|U.S. Army]] adopted the T161E3 as the M60 in 1957.<ref>{{cite magazine |magazine=Popular Science |author=Bonnier Corporation |title=Army's Newest Machine Gun Shoots from the Shoulder |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=Ci0DAAAAMBAJ&pg=PA122 |date=September 1957 |publisher=Bonnier Corporation |pages=122–123}}</ref> The decision to adopt the M60 instead of foreign designs, like [[T24 machine gun|modified versions]] of the proven German MG 42 or the still-unproven FN MAG, was largely due to Congressional requirements that preference be given to the designs of U.S. arms manufacturers primarily to avoid licensing fees, but also to support U.S. firms.

=== Vietnam War ===
[[File:Soldiers Laying Down Covering Fire.jpg|thumb|An M60 machine gun being used during the [[Vietnam War]] in 1966.]]

Many U.S. units used the M60 during the [[Vietnam War]] as a [[squad automatic weapon]]. Every soldier in the rifle squad would carry an additional 200 linked rounds of ammunition for the M60, a spare barrel, or both. The up-gunned [[M113 armoured personnel carrier|M113 armored personnel carrier]] added two M60 gunners beside the main .50-caliber machine gun while the [[Patrol Boat, River]] had one in addition to two .50-cal mounts.<ref>{{cite book |last1=Dockery |first1=Kevin |title=The M60 Machine Gun |date=2012 |publisher=Osprey Publishing |pages=48}}</ref>

The M60 received the nickname "The Pig" due to its bulky size and appetite for ammunition.<ref name="ShermanSherman2011">{{cite book |author1=M. Zachary Sherman |author2=Zachary M. Sherman |title=Fighting Phantoms |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=-tCRtxz2ohUC&pg=PT41 |access-date=May 2, 2011 |date=January 1, 2011 |publisher=Capstone Press |isbn=978-1-4342-2560-3 |page=41}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.militarytimes.com/off-duty/gearscout/irons/2020/01/02/how-the-m60-earned-the-beloved-nickname-of-the-pig/ |title=TBT: How the M60 earned the (Beloved) nickname of 'The Pig' |date=January 2, 2020 |access-date=May 24, 2021 |archive-date=May 24, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210524191322/https://www.militarytimes.com/off-duty/gearscout/irons/2020/01/02/how-the-m60-earned-the-beloved-nickname-of-the-pig/ |url-status=live}}</ref> Vietnam's tropical climate harshly affected weapons, and the M60 was no exception. Its light weight led to it being easily damaged and critical parts like the bolt and operating rod wore out quickly. Even so, soldiers appreciated the gun's handling, mechanical simplicity, and effective operation from a variety of firing positions. [[United States Navy SEALs]] used M60s with shorter barrels and no front sights to reduce weight. Some SEALs had feed chutes from backpacks to have a belt of hundreds of rounds ready to fire without needing to reload.<ref name="sadj">[http://sadefensejournal.com/wp/?p=164 "Life and Times of the M60"] {{Webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131029204421/http://sadefensejournal.com/wp/?p=164 |date=October 29, 2013}}. ''Small Arms Defense Journal'', 10 August 2011.</ref>

Many incidents demonstrated the effectiveness of the M60 in combat. In 1966, [[Medal of Honor]] recipient [[Lance Corporal#Marine Corps|Lance Corporal]] [[Richard A. Pittman|Richard Pittman]], a Marine with 1/5 (1st Battalion/5th Marine Regiment), used the M60 to engage superior elements of the 324th North Vietnamese Army (NVA) Division, defeating two enemy machine gun positions and suppressing enemies in his immediate vicinity, then advancing another 50 meters into the face of more attacking NVA.<ref>{{Cite news |url=https://www.recoilweb.com/m60-machine-gun-99865.html |title=M60 Machine Gun: 3 Interesting Facts to Know |work=RECOIL |language=en-US |access-date=March 5, 2020 |archive-date=August 3, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200803094540/https://www.recoilweb.com/m60-machine-gun-99865.html |url-status=live}}</ref>

[[File:Marine M-60 machine gun team fighting in the Citadel.jpg|thumb|left|Marine fires his M60 machine gun at an enemy position during the [[Battle of Huế]] in Vietnam War.]]
In the 1980s, the Army partially replaced the M60 by the [[M249 light machine gun|M249 Squad Automatic Weapon]] within infantry squads. Their new doctrine reduced the [[general-purpose machine gun]] role in favor of portability and a greater volume of fire. However, many disliked the M249, which was less reliable, accurate, and long-ranged,<ref>{{cite book |last1=Ford |first1=Matthew |title=Weapon of Choice: Small Arms and the Culture of Military Innovation |date=February 2017 |publisher=Oxford University Press |pages=161}}</ref> and fired a [[5.56×45mm NATO|5.56&nbsp;mm]] round that was lighter than the M60's 7.62&nbsp;mm round. The M60 was retained in the vehicle-mounted and the general-purpose roles due to its greater power and range.<ref name="sadj" />

The [[United States Marine Corps|U.S. Marine Corps]], which became concerned about the M60's reliability, weight, and the high round counts, adopted the M60E3 to replace most original M60s in infantry units. The M60E3 was five pounds lighter than the original M60. It included a forward pistol grip and had the bipod mounted to the receiver rather than the barrel. The weapon still was not durable and its performance was reduced.<ref name="sadj" />

In the early 1990s, [[Saco Defense]] addressed Navy Special Warfare requirements to develop a retrofit parts package for the machine gun. Called the M60E4, it was more reliable and durable than the M60E3, had a "duckbill" flash suppressor, and a shorter and thicker positive lock gas cylinder extension. The first NAVSPECWAR units received it in late 1994, when it was designated the Mk 43 Mod 0.<ref name="sadj" />

[[File:Spops2004afghanm60.jpg|thumb|A [[19th Special Forces Group]] soldier mans an M60 machine gun on a [[Humvee]] in Afghanistan in March 2004. An [[AT4]] anti-armor recoilless gun can be seen in the foreground.]]
In January 1994, the U.S. Army began the Medium Machine Gun Upgrade Kit program. The only two competitors were M60 and [[M240 machine gun|M240]] versions. Saco offered an "enhanced" M60E3 with improved parts, and FN offered the M240 variant of its MAG; both weapons were upgrade kits of weapons already in service. Eighteen guns of each were tested until December 1995. There were two main performance areas: mean rounds between stoppages (MRBS-jams) and mean rounds between failures (MRBF-parts breaking). 50,000 rounds were fired through both guns. The M240 had 2,962 MRBS and 6,442 MRBF, compared to the M60's 846 MRBS and 1,669 MRBF. As a result, the M240 was declared the winner and accepted into infantry service. Although the M60 was lighter, had better balance, was more controllable, and there were many in the inventory, it did not work reliably enough.<ref name="sadj" /> Starting with Ranger battalions, the U.S. Army began adopting and modifying M240 variants to replace their remaining M60s in the early 1990s.

The M60, though largely phased out, continued to be used in the 21st century by [[United States Navy SEALs|U.S. Navy SEALs]]. It was the main 7.62&nbsp;mm machine gun used by some [[United States Special Operations Command|U.S. special operations forces]] to the late 1990s. As of 2005 it was used by the [[United States Coast Guard|U.S. Coast Guard]], U.S. Navy, and some reserve units.

In 2015, the Danish Army adopted an M60E6 variant from [[U.S. Ordnance]] to replace their aging [[MG3 machine gun|MG3]]s in infantry roles.{{citation needed|date=August 2024}}

==Design==
{{more citations needed|section|date=July 2009}}
[[File:Thomas with M60 Machine Gun.jpg|thumb|A British Royal Air Force officer handles an M60 during a demonstration for Combined Joint Task Force Exercise (CJTFEX) in 2004.]]
The M60 is a [[gas-operated]], [[air-cooled]], belt-fed, [[Automatic firearm|automatic]] machine gun that fires from the open-bolt position and is chambered in 7.62×51mm NATO. It has a cyclic rate of fire of around 500–650 rounds per minute (RPM). Ammunition is usually fed into the weapon from a 100 or 250-round disintegrating, metallic split-link belt.

The design drew on many common concepts in firearms manufacture of the period, such as stamped sheet metal construction, belt feed (a modified mechanism for belt feed from the [[MG 42]] with a single pawl), quick barrel replacement, a [[pistol grip]] and [[Stock (firearm)|stock]], and a [[semi bullpup]] design similar to the [[FG 42]] (much of the action occupies the weapon's stock). The M60's operating system of an operating rod turning a [[rotating bolt]] was inspired by the FG 42, which was based on the much earlier [[Lewis Gun]]. The M60 was even constructed with a secondary assisting firing pin spring that is used in the FG 42 in semi-automatic mode even though it is actually unnecessary in the M60, which operates only in full automatic mode. The M60's gas operation is unique, and drew on technical advances of the period, particularly the White "gas expansion and cutoff" principle also exploited by the M14 rifle. The M60's gas system was simpler than other gas systems and easier to clean.

The M60 was designed for mass production, like the MG 42 it was based on. While the M1919 required much machining for its large, recoil-operated internal mechanisms, the M60's stamped sheet receiver had a gas-operated, carrier-cammed bolt mechanism; the same type of mechanism was used on the Lewis machine gun.<ref name="sadj" /> The straight-line layout allowed the operating rod and buffer to run directly back into the buttstock and reduce the overall length of the weapon.

[[File:030104-N-7676W-058 - M60E3 live fire exercise.jpg|thumb|left|A navy sailor fires an M60E3 machine gun during a live-fire exercise at the [[Guantanamo Bay Naval Base|Mobile Inshore Underwater Warfare Site]] (MIUW) at [[Guantánamo Bay, Cuba]] in 2003.]]
As with all such weapons, it can be fired from the shoulder, hip, or underarm position. However, to achieve the maximum effective range, it is recommended that a bipod-steadied position or a tripod-mounted position be used, and the gun fired in bursts of 3–5 rounds.<ref>{{cite book |last1=Dockery |first1=Kevin |title=The M60 Machine Gun |date=2012 |publisher=Osprey Publishing |pages=29}}</ref> The weapon is heavy and difficult to aim when firing without support, though the weight helps reduce the felt recoil. The large grip also allowed the weapon to be conveniently carried at the hip. The gun can be stripped using a live round of ammunition as a tool.{{Definition needed|This seems like very interesting and special information, but it lacks any explanation. I don't understand it - it seems to be saying the rifle can be broken down into its components using only a live cartridge as a tool? I don't dispute this but the question 'how is that possible?' needs to be answered.|date=November 2024}}

The M60 is often used with its own integrated bipod or with the [[M2 tripod|M122 tripod]].<ref name="m60manual"/> The M60 is considered effective up to 1,100 meters when firing at an area target and mounted on a [[tripod]]; up to 800 meters when firing at an area target using the integral [[bipod]]; up to 600 meters when firing at a point target; and up to 200 meters when firing at a moving point target. [[United States Marine Corps]] [[doctrine]] holds that the M60 and other weapons in its class are capable of [[suppressive fire]] on area targets out to 1,500 meters if the gunner is sufficiently skilled.

Originally, an experimental M91 tripod was developed for the M60, but an updated M2 tripod design, which became the M122, was selected over it. The M122 was replaced in the 2000s (decade) by a new mount, in time for the M60 to also be used with it.

===Ammunition===
[[File:M60firingfromboat1.jpg|thumb|M60 machine gun fired during a small arms familiarization exercise aboard [[USS Blue Ridge (LCC-19)|USS ''Blue Ridge'' (LCC-19)]]; November 2004.]]

The M60 family of weapons are capable of firing standard NATO rounds of the appropriate caliber. Most common in U.S. use are M61 [[Armor-piercing bullet|armor-piercing]], M62 [[Tracer ammunition|tracer]], and M80 Ball. For training purposes, M63 Dummy and M82 [[Blank (cartridge)|blanks]] are used.<ref>{{cite book |last1=Dockery |first1=Kevin |title=The M60 Machine Gun |date=2012 |publisher=Osprey Publishing |pages=71}}</ref> Newer [[tungsten]]-cored M993 Armor-piercing rounds may also be fired in the M60, though they did not enter the inventory until after the M60 was withdrawn from service in active-duty units.

When firing blanks, the M13 or '''M13A1''' [[blank-firing adaptor]] (BFA) is necessary in order to produce enough gas pressure to cycle the weapon with blanks. All ammunition must be fixed in a NATO standard M13 disintegrating metallic split-link belt to feed into the weapon.

The standard combat ammunition mix for the M60 consists of sequences of four ball (M80) [[Cartridge (weaponry)|cartridges]] and one tracer (M62) in belts of 100 rounds. The four-to-one ratio theoretically allows the gunner to accurately "walk" the fire into the enemy. Tracer bullets do not fly quite the same trajectory as ball, and the weapon's sights must be used for accurate fire—particularly at ranges in excess of 800 meters, where [[7.62×51mm NATO]] tracer bullets usually burn out and are no longer visible. This is a problem for all weapons in this caliber using this tracer round.

===Design flaws===
At the time of the M60's development, other designs, like the Belgian [[FN MAG]] and the German [[Rheinmetall MG 3]] (MG42 derivative), had yet to enter production. In Army tests, the M60 proved fairly effective, but in the jungles of Southeast Asia, it displayed a number of troubling issues.

[[File:M60 machine gun barrel change DF-ST-90-04667.jpg|thumb|left|The M60 machine gun crew member responsible for hot barrel changes uses protective [[asbestos]] gloves to prevent burns to the hands.]]
A common complaint was the weapon's weight; though the M60 was among the lightest 7.62&nbsp;mm machine guns of the era, the weapon was poorly balanced and thus awkward to carry for long periods. The single most common complaint was that the M60 was unreliable in extreme conditions and prone to jamming and other malfunctions during heavy firing, especially when it was dirty. Sometimes spent casings would fail to extract and stay stuck inside the chamber, forcing a barrel change before it could be fired again.<ref>{{cite book |last1=Dockery |first1=Kevin |title=The M60 Machine Gun |date=2012 |publisher=Osprey Publishing |pages=58}}</ref>

Due to the rotating bolt design, the M60 required stoning of burrs or roughness on the lugs, which could increase headspace, occasionally causing cartridge case stretching and head separation. This required replacement of the bolt.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.usord.com/content/docs/manuals/usord_m60d_technical_manual-2.17.pdf|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20180712172219/http://www.usord.com/content/docs/manuals/usord_m60d_technical_manual-2.17.pdf|url-status=dead|title=M60D Technical Manual|archivedate=July 12, 2018}}</ref>{{verify source|reason=Source doesn't say it's a design flaw, just part of maintenance|date=August 2019}} The M60 sometimes (depending on the version) tore off the rims from fired cartridge cases during the extraction cycle, causing a jam that required a cleaning rod to be rammed down the barrel to extract the torn cartridge, a potentially deadly procedure while under fire in combat. The barrel latch mechanism (a swinging lever) could catch on the gunner's equipment and accidentally unlatch, causing the barrel to fall out of the gun. On new M60s, the lever was replaced with a push button mechanism that was less likely to be accidentally released, but few of the older M60s were modified due to expense, with many of the extant weapons still bearing them.

The grip/trigger housing assembly is held in place with a rather fragile leaf spring clip instead of the captive pins used in other designs. The spring clip has been known to be prone to breakage since the first trials at Aberdeen Proving Ground. Duct tape and cable ties have been seen on M60s in the field, placed there by their crews in case the spring clip breaks. The [[Sear (firearm)|sear]] in the trigger mechanism gained a reputation for wearing down, and a malfunction could cause the gun to "run away".<ref>''The World Encyclopedia of Rifles and Machine Guns'', pp. 93, 196.</ref> A second sear notch was eventually added to the operating rod to reduce the chance of this happening.

==Variants==
{{more citations needed|section|date=July 2009}}
[[File:M60maintenance2002.jpg|thumb|A Gunner's Mate 3rd Class cleans and performs preventative maintenance on an M60 machine gun on the {{USS|Constellation|CV-64}}, December 2002.]]
[[File:M60 101st Airborne Division Exercise 1972.jpg|thumb|right|A member of the [[101st Airborne Division (United States)|101st Airborne Division]], armed with an M60 machine gun, participates in a field exercise in 1972.]]

The nomenclature ''M60'' describes either the first adopted variant or, generically, the family of weapons were derived from it. Major variations include the '''M60E1''' (an improved variant that did not enter production), the '''M60E2''' (a variant designed to be used from fixed mounts as a [[Coaxial weapon|co-axial]] for armored vehicles or in helicopter armament systems), the '''M60E3''' (a lightweight variant) and the '''M60E4''' (another improved variant, designated as the '''Mk 43 Mod 0''' by the [[United States Navy|U.S. Navy]]).

The M60C was adopted for use on fixed mounts on aircraft. It was characterized by the use of an electric solenoid to operate the trigger and a hydraulic system to charge the weapon. The M60D differed from the base model by employing spade grips, a different sighting system, and lacking a forearm. It was typically employed as a door gun on helicopters or as a pintle-mounted weapon as on the [[K1 Type 88|Type 88 K1]] tank.

There are many smaller variants among each type, between makers of the firearm, and over time.

===Variant summary===
*'''T161''': The M60's developmental designation before it was type-classified in the 1950s.
*'''M60''': The basic model, type-classified in 1957.
*'''M60E1''': An improved variant that did not enter production. The primary difference was the handle fixed to the barrel and the removal of the gas cylinder and bipod from the barrel assembly.
*'''M60E2''': Used in vehicles as a coaxial machine gun; electrically fired.
*'''M60B''': Used in helicopters in the 1960s and 1970s; unmounted.
*'''M60C''': Used in fixed mounts in aircraft in the 1960s and 1970s; electrically fired and hydraulically charged.
*'''M60D''': Replaced the M60B; a pintle-mounted variant used especially in armament subsystem for helicopters, but also some other roles.
*'''M60E3''': An updated, lightweight variant adopted in the 1980s.
*'''M60E4 (Mk 43 Mod 0/1)''': An improved variant of the 1990s that looks similar to the M60E3, but has many improvements. It has subvariants of its own and is also used by the U.S. Navy (as the Mk 43 Mod 0/1). The Mk 43 Mod 1 is a specialized variant with additions such as extra rails for mounting accessories.
*'''M60E6''': A lightened and improved variant of the M60E4.

===M60===
[[File:M60 Medium Machine Gun (7414626098).jpg|thumb|M60 with bipod extended]]
[[File:M60 machine gun.jpg|thumb|M60 on the deck of [[CVN 71|USS ''Theodore Roosevelt'' (CVN-71)]] in 2006.]]
{{See also|U.S. helicopter armament subsystems}}

The initial variant was officially adopted by the U.S. Army in the late 1950s, though at this time it was only intended for the infantry. It was known as the T161 before it was adopted (specifically the T161E3) and was chosen over the competing T52 during testing in the 1950s.<ref>{{cite book |last1=Dockery |first1=Kevin |title=The M60 Machine Gun |date=2012 |publisher=Osprey Publishing |pages=28}}</ref> They both used a similar feed and were both gas-operated, but the T161 was easier to produce and its different internals performed better. The model that won the competition was the T161E3.

The model was type-classified in 1957 and entered production. It saw its first heavy use in the 1960s. The basic design has undergone some smaller changes and has been produced by different manufacturers.

===M60E1===
The M60E1 was the first major variant of the original M60. It did not go into full-scale production, though many of its features were included in the later E3 and E4 variants. Some of its features were also incorporated into the existing M60 production. This mainly changed how the gas cylinder, the barrel, and the bipod were connected in the first iteration. The M60 and the M60E1 are two different versions. Opinions vary on whether the M60E1 was officially adopted.

One of the more noticeable changes on the M60E1 is that the bipod attachment point was moved to the gas tube rather than the barrel (like on the later M60E3). It did not, however, have a forward pistol grip, as was added on the E3 variant.

===M60E2===
[[File:Us m60e2 01.jpg|thumb|An M60E2 machine gun, intended for co-axial use. Note the gas tube extension and the lack of a pistol grip.]]

The M60E2 is used on [[armored fighting vehicle]]s, such as the M48A5, later [[M60 Patton]] tanks and the [[K1 Type 88]]. It lacks many of the external components of the standard M60, including stock and grips. The M60E2 was electrically fired, but had a manual trigger as a backup, as well as a metal loop at the back for [[Cocking handle|charging]]. The gas tube below the barrel was extended to the full length of the weapon to vent the gas outside the vehicle. This version achieved a mean time between failures of 1,669 during testing in the 1970s.

The M60E2 is used on the South Korea's [[K1 Type 88]] tank as a [[Coaxial weapon|co-axial weapon]], along with an M60D on a [[Weapon mount#Pintle|pintle mount]].

===M60B===
The M60B was a short-lived variant designed to be fired from helicopters, with limited deployment made in the 1960s and 1970s. Nicknamed the "Free Gun" by aircrew door gunners,<ref>{{Cite web |last=Stoner |first=Bob |date=2005 |title=Ordnance Notes: M60 7.62mm Machine Guns (All Versions) |url=https://www.warboats.org/stonerordnotes/M60%20GPMG%20R5.html |website=www.warboats.org}}</ref> it was not mounted, just held, and was soon replaced by the pintle-mounted M60D. The 'B' model differed most noticeably in that it had no bipod and featured a different rear stock than the regular model. It still had a pistol grip (as opposed to spade grips). The M60B's advantage over pintle-mounted variants was that it had a wider and much less restricted field of fire.

An unusual arrangement of the M60B was done by [[HA(L)-3]] squadron aircrew by removing the sights, shortening the barrel inline to the gas block, removing the stock to shorten the receiver as the shorter buffer spring increased the rate of fire, an improvised side mounted grip was installed on the handguard. This arrangement allowed the door gunners easier movement of the weapon as well as firing sideways improved the belt feed performance.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.arcforums.com/forums/air/index.php?/topic/316472-novel-m60-door-gunner-configuration/ |title=Novel M60 Door Gunner Configuration |date=February 15, 2021}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.reddit.com/r/ForgottenWeapons/comments/1bfx21c/m60b_free_gun_field_modified_to_be_held_sideways/?rdt=61936 |title=M60B "Free Gun" field modified to be held sideways as a door gun on US Navy Huey helicopter gunships operating during the Vietnam War |date=March 16, 2024}}</ref>

===M60C===
[[File:M60cmg.png|thumb|An M60C machine gun with no iron sights, pistol grip or bipod]]

The M60C is a variant of the standard M60 for aircraft mounting, such as in [[US helicopter armament subsystems|helicopter armament subsystems]]. It lacks things like the bipod, pistol grip, and [[iron sights]]. The main difference between the standard M60 and the "C" variant is the electronic control system and the hydraulic swivel system used. It could be fired from the cockpit by the pilot or co-pilot. It is an electronically controlled, hydraulic-powered, air-cooled, gas-operated, belt-fed weapon system. It used the [[U.S. Helicopter Armament Subsystems#OH-13 Sioux and OH-23 Raven|M2]], [[U.S. Helicopter Armament Subsystems#UH-1 Iroquois|M6]], and [[U.S. Helicopter Armament Subsystems#UH-1 Iroquois|M16]] armament subsystems and was mounted on the [[OH-13 Sioux]], the [[OH-23 Raven]], the [[UH-1 Iroquois|UH-1B Huey]], and comprised the standard fixed armament of the [[OV-10 Bronco]]. M60C production was on the order of several hundred. It was also used in the [[U.S. aircraft gun pods|XM19]] [[gun pod]].

===M60D===
[[File:M23 Gunner.jpg|thumb|upright|An M60D machine gun on the M23 Armament Subsystem.]]

The M60D is a mounted variant of the standard M60. It can be mounted on boats, vehicles and as a pintle-mounted door gun in helicopters. When used in aircraft, it differs from the M60C in that it is not controlled by the pilot—rather, it is mounted in a door and operated by a member of the crew. Like the rest of the M60 family, it is an air-cooled, gas-operated, belt-fed weapon. Unlike other models, however, the M60D normally has spade grips and an aircraft ring-type sight or similar, as well as an improved ammunition feed system. A canvas bag is also affixed to the gun to capture ejected casings and links, preventing them from being sucked into the rotor blades or into an engine intake. The M60D was equipped on the UH-1B Huey (using the M23, XM29, M59, and the Sagami mounts), the [[CH-47 Chinook]] (using the M24 and M41 mounts) in both door and ramp locations, the ACH-47A "Guns-A-Go-Go" variant of the Chinook (using the XM32 and XM33 mounts), and on the [[UH-60 Black Hawk]] (using the M144 mount). The M60D is also used by the British on Royal Air Force Chinooks. In US service, the M60D has been primarily replaced by the M240H. The M60D is still manufactured by [[U.S. Ordnance]] and still used on the [[Sikorsky SH-60 Seahawk|SH-60 Seahawk]].

===M60E3===
[[File:M60 machine gun DN-ST-88-00621.jpg|thumb|Navy SEAL team member fires an M60E3 from the shoulder during a field training exercise in 1987.]]

The M60E3 was fielded c. 1986 in an attempt to remedy problems with earlier versions of the M60 for infantry use. It is a lightweight, "improved" variant intended to reduce the load carried by the gunner. Unlike its predecessors, the M60E3 has several updated modern features. It has a bipod (attached to the receiver) for improved stability, ambidextrous safety, universal sling attachments, a carrying handle on the barrel, and a simplified gas system. However, these features also caused almost as many problems for the weapon as they fixed. There were different types of barrels used, but the lightweight barrel was not as safe for sustained fire at 200 rounds per minute as heavier types. Despite this, some personnel claim to have witnessed successful prolonged firing of the weapon. The [[stellite]] superalloy barrel liner makes it possible, but the excessive heat generated by this process may quickly render the gun unusable. There were two main barrels, a lightweight barrel and another heavier type—the former for when lighter weight was desired, and the latter for situations where more sustained fire was required.

[[File:M60 machine gun DM-ST-90-01312.jpg|thumb|A recruit pulls back the bolt of an M60E3 machine gun during a weapons familiarization class. The weapon is mounted on a tripod with a traversing and elevation mechanism attached.]]
The reduced-weight components also reduced the durability of the weapon, making it more prone to rapid wear and parts breakage than the original. Most [[infantry]] units in the U.S. Army and Marine Corps have now switched over to the [[M240 machine gun|M240]] as their [[general-purpose machine gun]], which is more reliable (particularly when dirty) and seems to be well liked by the troops for its ruggedness, despite the fact that it weighs 27.6&nbsp;lb (12.5&nbsp;kg) compared to the standard M60 at 23.15&nbsp;lb (10.5&nbsp;kg).

U.S. Navy SEALs continued to use the "CAR-60" (M60E3) version due to its lighter weight and slower rate of fire, which allows a more effective duration of fire with allowable levels of ammunition carried.

The [[U.S. Air Force Security Forces]] received the M60E3 from 1988 to 1989. All USAF M60E3s were withdrawn from general issue by 1990, because it did not meet the vehicle mount requirements of the [[Cadillac Gage Ranger]] and due to overheating problems. The M60E3 did remain in the Air Force as weapons converted back to M60 configuration with the E3 X-stamped via locally installed kits issued from depot. The Air Force cut the barrel change times, sustained fire 100 rounds per minute change barrel every 10 minutes (M60) to five minutes (M60E3), and rapid fire 200 rounds per minute change barrel every five minutes to two minutes.

===M60E4/Mk 43 Mod 0/1===
The M60E4 or Mk 43 is a 7.62×51mm NATO general-purpose machine gun. Evolved from the M60 machine gun series, it has several improvements over the originals. The M60E4/Mk 43 series includes the Mod 0 and Mod 1 configurations.

It is the primary light machine gun used in some [[NATO]] countries and other U.S. Government export-approved countries. The Mk 43 machine gun currently is manufactured solely by [[U.S. Ordnance]] (USORD). USORD has produced it since 2000.

The M60E4/Mk 43 is one of the modernized variants in the generations of the old M60 family and incorporates a number of improvements over past versions. Externally, it looks somewhat like the M60E3, but it has many internal changes and improvements that modernize the effectiveness and reliability of this weapon. In general it is a more reliable weapon than all previous M60s. Externally, it features a different forward grip, iron sights, butt stock and bipod. The M60E4/Mk 43 has higher pull for the belt, and is available in a variety of configurations. Older M60 models can be upgraded with a conversion kit manufactured by U.S. Ordnance to the M60E4/Mk 43. The M60E4/Mk 43 were primarily developed in the 1990s and have continued to be redeveloped in the 2000s (decade). Early Mk 43s had some distinct differences from the E4 (such as a duckbill flash suppressor), though by the 2000s these distinctions seemed to have ended.

[[File:M60iraq2003.jpg|thumb|A mounted Mk 43 Mod 0 (M60E4) (later model) is crewed by a [[Seabee (US Navy)|Seabee]] of [[NMCB]]-15 (Naval Mobile Construction Battalion), on a convoy in Iraq in May 2003.]]
The Navy has designated this weapon as the Mk 43 Mod 0. It was developed for the U.S. Navy SEALs to replace their existing stock of M60E3 machine guns fitted with shorter "assault barrels". These weapons are identical to standard M60E4s, with the exception of the barrel length, and can be used either as suppressive fire or direct fire weapons. The Mk 43 Mod 1 adds significantly more rail attachment points to the weapon's receiver cover and handguard.

[[U.S. Ordnance]]'s website states in their FAQ, as of 2005, that the "M60E4 and the Mk 43 are the same weapon system". The M60E4 and Mk 43 variants in the past were roughly similar, although they are part of the same family. While it might be fair to say that the Mk 43s are a type of M60E4, there are technical differences between any given M60E4 model. Early Mk 43s have certain differences over M60E4 from the same period, the most obvious being the duck-bill flash hider and different handguard. This difference is no longer seen on the current Mk 43s still manufactured by U.S. Ordnance.

In Army trials during the 1990s the M60E4 produced by Saco Defense was pitted against the M240E4 (then called) produced by FN for a new medium machine gun to be used by the infantry. The competition was to replace the decades-old M60s. The M240E4 won, and was then classified as the [[240 Bravo|M240B]]. While the M240B had been more reliable in the tests, it was noted to be a heavier weapon than the M60E4.

The M60E4/Mk 43 is a modern update to the entire series, such that it is also available in many of the previous configurations, such as a co-axial weapon. Kits are offered to convert older models to the E4 standard.

*'''M60E4''' (light machine gun):
**Short barrel: weight: 22.5&nbsp;lb (10.2&nbsp;kg); length: 37.7 in (95.8&nbsp;cm)
**Long barrel: weight: 23.1&nbsp;lb (10.5&nbsp;kg); length: 42.4 in (108&nbsp;cm)
**Assault barrel: weight: 21.3&nbsp;lb (9.66&nbsp;kg); length: 37.0 in (94.0&nbsp;cm)
**Width: 4.8 in (12.2&nbsp;cm)
*'''M60E4''' (mounted):
**Length: 43.5 in (110&nbsp;cm)
**Width: 5.9 in (15.0&nbsp;cm)
**Weight: 22.7&nbsp;lb (10.3&nbsp;kg)
*'''M60E4''' (co-axial):
**Length: 42.3 in (107&nbsp;cm)
**Width: 4.8 in (12.2&nbsp;cm)
**Weight: 21.2&nbsp;lb (9.62&nbsp;kg)

====Design details====
The M60E4/Mk 43 is a gas-operated, disintegrating-link, belt-fed, air-cooled machine gun that fires from an open bolt. It is the newest, upgraded variant of the M60 series machine guns.<ref name="jane's">Jane’s Infantry Weapons, Sept. 2009</ref> It fires a 7.62×51mm NATO cartridge, which offers accuracy, reliability, and stopping power. It fires at a cyclic rate of around 500 to 600 rounds per minute, with an effective distance of 1200 yards (1100 meters). The weapon's controllable, yet lethal, rate of fire allows for accurate firing in the standing, kneeling and prone positions.

The M60E4/Mk 43 is ambidextrous, and shares its parts with all previous M60 configurations, including vehicle mounts. The adjustable front sight allows for zeroing of the primary and spare barrel, the chrome and induction hardening lengthens service life, and the ammunition is now mounted on the receiver, preventing damage, and thereby feed failure. The machine gun's light weight—20 to 21 pounds (9 to 10 kilograms)—and compact design make it easy to carry long distances and maneuver in tight spaces. It also allows for the weapon to be fired from the shoulder accurately.{{citation needed|date=July 2020}}

The M60E4/Mk 43 Mod 0, typically used as an infantry machine gun, features an injection-molded composite handguard. The weapon system's quick-change barrel is crucial for safety and efficiency, particularly when the operator is under fire. With the lightweight bipod mounted to the receiver, the barrel can be changed without removing the bipod.{{citation needed|date=July 2020}}

The M60E4/Mk 43 Mod 1 has multiple [[M1913]] rail mounting points for mounting optics, aiming lasers, and accessories for around-the-clock capability. It mounts directly or adapts to all standard NATO tripod and vehicle mounts.{{citation needed|date=July 2020}}

Barrels are [[stellite]] lined for sustained fire and extended barrel life. They are available in short, long and heavy fluted configurations for use in various applications. All major components of the M60E4/Mk 43 directly interchange with other M60 configurations. U.S. Ordnance manufactures a conversion kit that upgrades older M60s to its M60E4/Mk 43 model.<ref>{{cite news |title=M60E4/MK43 U.S. Ordnance machine gun |work=Army Recognition |date=26 November 2018 |url=https://www.armyrecognition.com/united_states_us_army_light_and_heavy_weapons_uk/m60e4/mk43_machine_gun_us_ordnance_data_sheet_specifications_information_description_intelligence_id.html |access-date=July 3, 2020 |archive-date=August 16, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220816013731/https://armyrecognition.com/united_states_us_army_light_and_heavy_weapons_uk/m60e4/mk43_machine_gun_us_ordnance_data_sheet_specifications_information_description_intelligence_id.html |url-status=live}}</ref>

===M60E6===
[[File:Machine gun M60E6.JPG|thumb|An M60E6 machine gun adopted by the Danish Army, designated as the ''LMG M/60'' with C79 LMG Optic]]

The M60E6 is an improvement on the M60E4 and the latest M60 variant. It won against the [[HK121]] in the [[Royal Danish Army|Danish Army's]] GPMG replacement program to replace the [[Rheinmetall MG 3|M/62]] in March 2014. The weight has been reduced to {{convert|9.27|kg|lb|abbr=on}}, {{convert|2.23|kg|lb|abbr=on}} lighter than the M/62. Its rate of fire of around 500–650 rounds per minute (RPM)<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.usord.com/weapons/m60e6|title=M60E6 {{!}} Weapons {{!}} US Ordnance|website=www.usord.com|language=en|access-date=2017-10-15|archive-date=February 1, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150201033713/http://www.usord.com/weapons/m60e6|url-status=live}}</ref> is significantly less than the Danish M/62's 1,200 RPM, but it allows for better control, greater accuracy, more conservation of ammunition, more versatile firing positions, and less risk of collateral damage from losing control while shooting.<ref>{{Cite web | title=The Rise of the M60 to the M60E6 {{!}} thefirearmblog.com | url=https://www.thefirearmblog.com/blog/the-rise-of-the-m60-to-the-m60e6-44819839 | access-date=2025-06-24 | website=www.thefirearmblog.com| date=May 20, 2025 }}</ref> The M60E6 features a redesigned quick-change barrel assembly with an offset barrel handle, which is also used to carry the weapon and allows for the replacement of a hot barrel without using protective gloves. Changes to the rail system and bipod have been made, and a significant number of internal improvements have also increased reliability.<ref name="krigeren.dk">{{cite web|url=http://krigeren.dk/haerens-nye-let-maskingevaer-lmg-m60-e6/|title=Hærens nye let maskingevær (LMG) : M60 E6|author=KrigerenDK|work=krigeren.dk|access-date=December 23, 2014|date=2014-03-07|archive-date=December 24, 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141224005111/http://krigeren.dk/haerens-nye-let-maskingevaer-lmg-m60-e6/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.usord.com/weapons/m60e6|title=M60E6 – Weapons – US Ordnance|access-date=December 23, 2014|archive-date=February 1, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150201033713/http://www.usord.com/weapons/m60e6|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>[http://www.thefirearmblog.com/blog/2014/03/12/danish-army-adopts-m60e6-7-62-gpmg/ Danish Army Adopts M60E6 7.62 GPMG] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171017123957/http://www.thefirearmblog.com/blog/2014/03/12/danish-army-adopts-m60e6-7-62-gpmg/ |date=October 17, 2017}} – Thefirearmblog.com, 12 March 2014.</ref>

==== Danish C79 LMG Optic ====
The Danish military uses a 3.4×28 optical sight mounted on top of the receiver which can be set from {{convert|300|to|800|m|yds|0|sp=us}} in {{convert|100|m|yds|0|sp=us}} increments on their M/60E6. What sets the Danish C79 LMG Optic designated as M/98 apart from the standard [[C79 optical sight]] is its unique reticle of a chevron with a height of 12,5 TS and two TS line left and right with a length of 7,5 TS beginning 2,5 TS away from the tip of the chevron. The sight is designated as M/99 also available in a night vision configuration.<ref>{{Cite journal |last=Hjemmeværnet |title=HRN-111-007 |url=https://www.yumpu.com/da/document/read/17634649/hrn-111-007-762-mm-maskingevaer-m-62-hjemmevaernet |journal=Hæren |pages=H-11 |access-date=October 5, 2023 |archive-date=December 8, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231208224712/https://www.yumpu.com/da/document/read/17634649/hrn-111-007-762-mm-maskingevaer-m-62-hjemmevaernet |url-status=live}}</ref>

===Civilian variants===
A number of [[Semi-automatic firearm|semi-automatic]] only variants have been produced for the civilian market in the United States. The internals have been extensively modified to make it essentially impossible to convert them to fire in fully automatic. If the design is approved by the U.S. [[Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives]] (BATFE), they are treated as belt-fed semi-automatic rifles; however, individual state and local regulations still apply.

The U.S. Ordnance company is the current maker authorized by Saco to produce [[Defense Standard|mil-spec]] M60s and M60 parts. The company had charged $8,000 for a new semi-automatic M60.

The Desert Ordnance company is a current maker of M60s and M60 parts. The company charges between $13,000–$14,000 for a new semi-automatic M60, depending on the model.{{Clarify|reason=Both U.S Ordance & Desert Ordance are stated as "currrent maker".|date=April 2024}}

There are a variety of M60 models, some that have been upgraded to the current M60E4 configuration, on the market as well, but they are heavily regulated and restricted by the [[National Firearms Act]], and they cost over $40,000, with some models, such as a Maremont/SACO upgraded to M60E6 configuration costing as much as $65,000.

==Users==
<!-- READ FIRST: This section is for cited entries only. Please do not add entries into this list without a citation from a reliable source. All entries without a citation will be removed. Thank you. -->
[[File:M60 machine gun Users.png|thumb|Map of M60 users in blue]]
[[File:070328-M-3378S-004.jpg|thumb|[[South Korea]]n soldiers with an M60 conduct combined amphibious landing during [[Foal Eagle|Foal Eagle 07]]. ]]
[[File:MILF militant lying prone.jpg|thumb|[[Moro Islamic Liberation Front]] militant lying prone with an M60.]]
[[File:Cadillac Gage V-150 do Exército português.jpg|thumb|[[Portuguese Army]] [[Cadillac Gage Commando|V-150 Commando]] armed with an M60D.]]
[[File:M60 machine gun DF-SD-04-09905.jpg|thumb|U.S. airman with an M60, assigned to the 52nd Security Forces Squadron (SFS), at Spangdahlem Air Base (AB), Germany.]]
[[File:Soldat sénégalais muni d'une mitrailleuse M60 en 2016.jpg|thumb|Senegalese Marine with an M60 in 2016.]]

*{{flag|Algeria}}<ref name= 'bicc'>{{cite web|title=M60|url=https://salw-guide.bicc.de/en/weapon/view/33|website=SALW Guide: Global distribution and visual identification|author1=Bonn International Center for Conversion|author-link1=Bonn International Center for Conversion|author2=Bundeswehr Verification Center|access-date=August 28, 2018|archive-date=November 12, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211112020717/https://salw-guide.bicc.de/en/weapon/view/33|url-status=live}}</ref>
*{{Flag|Australia}}:<ref name="worldpolicy2000">{{cite web|url=http://www.worldpolicy.org/projects/arms/reports/smallarms.htm|title=Profiling the Small Arms Industry|author-first1=Frida|author-last1=Berrigan|author-first2=Michelle|author-last2=Ciarrocca|publisher=World Policy Institute|date=2009-11-13|access-date=February 3, 2010|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171011093831/http://www.worldpolicy.org/projects/arms/reports/smallarms.htm|archive-date=October 11, 2017|url-status=dead}}</ref> Replaced by the [[FN Minimi]] (light roles) and [[FN MAG|FN MAG58]] (general-purpose roles).
*{{Flag|Bolivia}}<ref name="jones2009">Jones, Richard D. ''Jane's Infantry Weapons 2009/2010''. Jane's Information Group; 35 edition (January 27, 2009). {{ISBN|978-0-7106-2869-5}}.</ref>
*{{Flag|Bosnia and Herzegovina}}<ref name="jones2009" />
*{{Flag|Brazil}}<ref name="jones2009" />
*{{Flag|Cambodia}}<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.smallarmssurvey.org/files/sas/publications/w_papers_pdf/WP/WP4_Cambodia.pdf|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20060811051132/http://www.smallarmssurvey.org/files/sas/publications/w_papers_pdf/WP/WP4_Cambodia.pdf|url-status=dead|archive-date=August 11, 2006|title=Small Arms Survey – Working Papers|date=November 8, 2012|access-date=December 23, 2014}}</ref>
*{{Flag|Chile}}<ref name="jones2009" />
*{{Flag|Colombia}}<ref name="jones2009" />
*{{Flag|Costa Rica}}<ref name="jones2009" />
*{{Flag|Czech Republic}}: The M60E4 is used in small numbers by specialized units of the [[Military of the Czech Republic|Czech Army]].<ref>{{Cite web | url=http://www.army.cz/assets/files/9334/zbrane_definit.pdf | title=Ruční zbraně ačr | language=cs | trans-title=Small arms and ammunition | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120229001255/http://www.army.cz/assets/files/9334/zbrane_definit.pdf | archive-date=February 29, 2012}}</ref> Known to be in use by the [[601st Special Forces Group]] in 2006 to replace the [[Uk vz. 59|UK-59L]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.601skss.cz/english/clickmap/m60_en.html|title=601st Special Forces Group Official Website|access-date=December 23, 2014|archive-date=June 7, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130607224049/http://www.601skss.cz/english/clickmap/m60_en.html|url-status=live}}</ref>
*{{Flag|Democratic Republic of the Congo}}<ref name="jones2009" />
*{{Flag|Denmark}}: Starting 2015, the Danish Army will receive 600+ M60E6s.<ref name="krigeren.dk" />
*{{Flag|Dominican Republic}}<ref name="jones2009" />
*{{Flag|El Salvador}}<ref name="gander1995">Gander, Terry J.; Hogg, Ian V. ''Jane's Infantry Weapons 1995/1996''. Jane's Information Group; 21 edition (May 1995). {{ISBN|978-0-7106-1241-0}}.</ref>
*{{flag|Egypt}}<ref name= 'bicc'/>
*{{Flag|Fiji}}<ref name="jones2009" />
*{{Flag|Ghana}}<ref name= 'bicc'/>
*{{Flag|Greece}}<ref name="jones2009" />
*{{Flag|Haiti}}<ref name="jones2009" />
*{{Flag|Honduras}}<ref name="jones2009" />
*{{Flag|Italy}}<ref name= 'bicc'/>
*{{Flag|Indonesia}}: M60, M60E2 used by the army; M60C by the air force; M60E6 by the navy.<ref name="jones2009" /><ref>{{Cite web |date=2021-02-05 |title=Uji Kemampuan Menembak di Laut, Unsur Patkamla Lanal Tanjung Balai Asahan Laksanakan Latihan Menembak di Pulau Salahnamo |url=https://www.reportasejakarta.com/2021/02/06/uji-kemampuan-menembak-di-laut-unsur-patkamla-lanal-tanjung-balai-asahan-laksanakan-latihan-menembak-di-pulau-salahnamo/ |access-date=2022-03-08 |language=id-ID |archive-date=March 8, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220308065358/https://www.reportasejakarta.com/2021/02/06/uji-kemampuan-menembak-di-laut-unsur-patkamla-lanal-tanjung-balai-asahan-laksanakan-latihan-menembak-di-pulau-salahnamo/ |url-status=live}}</ref>
*{{Flag|Jordan}}<ref name="jones2009" />
*{{Flag|Lebanon}}<ref>{{cite web|url=http://lebanon.usembassy.gov/pr_040214.html|title=Ambassador Hale Reaffirms U.S. Commitment to the Lebanese Army at Humvee Handover Ceremony|year=2014|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140407082214/http://lebanon.usembassy.gov/pr_040214.html|archive-date=April 7, 2014|df=mdy-all}}</ref>
*{{Flag|Liberia}}<ref name="jones2009" />
*{{Flag|Lithuania}}: Received a grant of 75 M60s in 2002 from the US [[Defense Logistics Agency]].<ref name="dsca.mil">{{Cite web| url=http://www.dsca.mil/sites/default/files/EDA_053013c.xlsx | title=EDA list | format=XLSX | access-date=2014-03-05 | url-status=dead | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140218121738/http://www.dsca.mil/sites/default/files/EDA_053013c.xlsx | archive-date=February 18, 2014}}</ref>
*{{flag|Luxembourg}}:<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.mnhm.lu:80/pageshtml/virtualmuseumtour.php|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20110126105021/http://www.mnhm.lu/pageshtml/virtualmuseumtour.php|url-status=dead|title=Virtual Museum Tour|first=Gaul|last=Roland|archivedate=January 26, 2011|website=www.mnhm.lu}}</ref> In service 1957–1972; replaced by [[FN MAG]].
*{{Flag|Malaysia}}: M60E1 is used by the [[Malaysian Army]] ''[[Grup Gerak Khas]]''.<ref name="Thompson, Leroy December 2008">{{cite web |url=http://www.tactical-life.com/online/special-weapons/malaysian-special-forces |title=Malaysian Special Forces |author=Thompson, Leroy |date=December 2008 |publisher=Special Weapons |access-date=2010-05-20 |archive-date=December 30, 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20091230203307/http://www.tactical-life.com/online/special-weapons/malaysian-special-forces/ |url-status=live}}</ref>
*{{flag|Mexico}}<ref name= 'bicc'/>
*{{Flag|Morocco}}<ref name="jones2009" />
*{{Flag|Nicaragua}}<ref name="jones2009" />
*{{Flag|Panama}}<ref name="jones2009" />
*{{flag|Papua New Guinea}}<ref name=Capie>{{cite book|last=Capie|first=David|title=Under the Gun: The Small Arms Challenge in the Pacific|date=2004|pages=63–65|publisher=Victoria University Press|location=Wellington|isbn=978-0864734532}}</ref>
*{{Flag|Peru}}<ref name="jones2009" />
*{{Flag|Philippines}}<ref name="jones2009" />
*{{Flag|Portugal}}: [[Portuguese Army]] uses M60E and D mounted on [[Cadillac Gage Commando|V-150 Commando]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.areamilitar.net/DIRECTORIO/ter.aspx?NN=99&P=77|title=LAV-150 – Textron Marine & Land / Portugal|access-date=December 23, 2014|archive-date=September 30, 2009|archive-url=http://arquivo.pt/wayback/20090930114625/http://www.areamilitar.net/DIRECTORIO/ter.aspx?NN=99&P=77|url-status=usurped}}</ref>
*{{flag|Saint Vincent and the Grenadines}}<ref name="jones2009" />
*{{Flag|Senegal}}: Received a grant of 2,500 M60s in 2002 from the US's [[Defense Logistics Agency]].<ref name="dsca.mil" />
*{{Flag|South Korea}}:<ref name="worldpolicy2000" /> Produced under license since 1974.<ref>{{cite web|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110428220328/http://www.dtic.mil/cgi-bin/GetTRDoc?AD=ADA323767&Location=U2&doc=GetTRDoc.pdf|archive-date=2011-04-28|url=http://www.dtic.mil/cgi-bin/GetTRDoc?AD=ADA323767&Location=U2&doc=GetTRDoc.pdf|title=South Korean Foreign Military Sales Program|date=September 1984|author=William Shaw|publisher=Library of Congress|url-status=dead|page=9}}</ref>
*{{flag|Spain}}<ref name= 'bicc'/>
*{{Flag|Sudan}}<ref name="jones2009" />
*{{Flag|Taiwan}}: Produced locally.<ref name="worldpolicy2000" /><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.thefreelibrary.com/Personal+infantry+weapons%3A+old+weapons+or+new+hardware+in+the+coming...-a09037642|title=Personal infantry weapons: old weapons or new hardware in the coming decades?|access-date=December 23, 2014|archive-date=September 25, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130925055138/http://www.thefreelibrary.com/Personal+infantry+weapons%3A+old+weapons+or+new+hardware+in+the+coming...-a09037642|url-status=live}}</ref>
*{{Flag|Thailand}}<ref name="jones2009" />
*{{Flag|Trinidad and Tobago}}<ref name="jones2009" />
*{{Flag|Tunisia}}:<ref name="jones2009" /> M60E4 used by [[Unité Spéciale – Garde Nationale]].<ref>{{Cite web|title=International Glocks: Fighting Terror in Tunisia|url=https://www.tactical-life.com/lifestyle/military-and-police/glocks-fighting-terror-in-tunisia/|website=Tactical Life|date=March 18, 2016|access-date=February 17, 2021|archive-date=April 12, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210412180448/https://www.tactical-life.com/lifestyle/military-and-police/glocks-fighting-terror-in-tunisia/|url-status=live}}</ref>
*{{Flag|Turkey}}
*{{Flag|Uganda}}<ref name="jones2009" />
*{{Flag|United Kingdom}}: Used by the [[Royal Air Force]]; mounted on the [[Boeing Chinook (UK variants)|Chinook]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.raf.mod.uk/equipment/chinook.cfm|title=RAF – Chinook|access-date=December 23, 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150102170915/http://www.raf.mod.uk/equipment/chinook.cfm|archive-date=January 2, 2015|url-status=dead|df=mdy-all}}</ref>
*{{Flagu|United States}}: Used by the [[U.S. Army]],<ref name="miller2001">Miller, David (2001). ''The Illustrated Directory of 20th Century Guns''. Salamander Books Ltd. {{ISBN|1-84065-245-4}}.</ref> the [[U.S. Navy SEALs]],<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.navyseals.com/m60e3-mk43-mod-0|title=M60E3 & MK43 Mod 0|work=Navy SEALs|access-date=December 23, 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121214214707/http://www.navyseals.com/m60e3-mk43-mod-0|archive-date=December 14, 2012|url-status=dead}}</ref> the [[Los Angeles Police Department]]<ref>{{Cite web |last=Moore |first=Michael R. |date=April 26, 2022 |title=USE OF EQUIPMENT COVERED BY CALIFORNIA ASSEMBLY BILL 481 - ESTABLISHED; AND, CALIFORNIA ASSEMBLY BILL 481 EQUIPMENT REPORT 2022 |url=https://lapdonlinestrgeacc.blob.core.usgovcloudapi.net/lapdonlinemedia/2022/04/NEW-CA-ASSEMBLY-BILL-481-EQUIPTMENT-REPORT-2022.pdf |access-date=August 8, 2022 |website=lapdonline.org |page=37 |archive-date=May 29, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220529110107/https://lapdonlinestrgeacc.blob.core.usgovcloudapi.net/lapdonlinemedia/2022/04/NEW-CA-ASSEMBLY-BILL-481-EQUIPTMENT-REPORT-2022.pdf |url-status=live}}</ref> and the [[Los Angeles Sheriff's Department]].<ref>{{cite web |url= https://lasd.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Transparency_Military_Equipment_List_070623.pdf |title = Transparency Military Equipment List |date = 6 July 2023 |website = Los Angeles Sheriff's Department |publisher = LASD |access-date = 28 August 2024}}</ref>
*{{Flag|Venezuela}}<ref name="jones2009" />
*{{Flag|Vietnam}}: Used by the [[People's Army of Vietnam|PAVN]] and former [[ARVN]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://kienthuc.net.vn/quan-su/tai-sao-viet-nam-nen-dung-lau-dai-sung-may-m60-my-788630.html#p-10|title=Tại sao Việt Nam nên dùng lâu dài súng máy M60 Mỹ?|date=2016-12-06|archive-date=December 5, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161205234500/http://kienthuc.net.vn/quan-su/tai-sao-viet-nam-nen-dung-lau-dai-sung-may-m60-my-788630.html#p-10|url-status=live|publisher=kienthuc |access-date=2016-12-05|language=vi}}</ref>

===Non-state operators===
* {{Flagicon image|Flag of the Amal Movement.svg|size=23px}} [[Lebanese Resistance Regiments|Amal Movement]]<ref>Samuel M. Katz and Ron Volstad, ''Arab Armies of the Middle East Wars 2'', Men-at-arms series 194, Osprey Publishing Ltd, London 1988, p. 46, Plate G3. {{ISBN|0-85045-800-5}}</ref>
* {{Flagicon image|Lebanesearmyfirstflag.png|size=23px}} [[Army of Free Lebanon]] (AFL){{citation needed|date=March 2018}}
* {{flagdeco|Bougainville}} [[Bougainville Revolutionary Army]] (BRA){{citation needed|date=March 2018}}
* {{Flagicon image|Lebanesearmyfirstflag.png|size=23px}} [[Lebanese Arab Army]] (LAA){{citation needed|date=March 2018}}
* {{Flagicon image|Forces Libanaises Flag.svg|size=23px}} [[Lebanese Forces (militia)|Lebanese Forces]]{{citation needed|date=March 2018}}
* {{Flagicon image|Flag of the FARC-EP.svg|size=23px}} [[Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia]] (FARC){{citation needed|date=March 2018}}
* {{Flagicon image|Flag of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front.svg|size=23px}} [[Moro Islamic Liberation Front]] (MILF)<ref>{{cite web |title=MILF has yet to yield SAF guns |url=http://www.philstar.com/headlines/2015/05/18/1455979/milf-has-yet-yield-saf-guns |date=May 18, 2015 |author=Cecille Suerte Felipe |work=[[The Philippine Star]] |access-date=August 30, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160923210451/http://www.philstar.com/headlines/2015/05/18/1455979/milf-has-yet-yield-saf-guns |archive-date=September 23, 2016 |url-status=dead |df=mdy-all}}</ref>
* [[Contras|Nicaraguan Contras]]<ref>Carlos Caballero Jurado, Nigel Thomas and Simon McCouaig, ''Central American Wars 1959–89'', Men-at-arms series 221, Osprey Publishing Ltd, London 1990, p. 45, Plate G1. {{ISBN|9780850459456}}</ref>
* {{Flagicon image|Flag_of_the_Progressive_Socialist_Party.svg|size=23px}} [[Progressive Socialist Party]]/[[People's Liberation Army (Lebanon)|People's Liberation Army]] (PLA) of Lebanon{{citation needed|date=March 2018}}
* {{flagdeco|Ireland}} [[Provisional Irish Republican Army]]<ref>{{cite book |title=The Terrorists: Their Weapons, Leaders, and Tactics |author1=Christopher Dobson |author2=Ronald Payne |year=1982 |pages=[https://archive.org/details/terroriststheirw0000dobs/page/119 119–120] |isbn=978-0871966681 |publisher=Facts on File |url=https://archive.org/details/terroriststheirw0000dobs/page/119}}</ref>
* {{flagicon image|Flag red yellow 5x3.svg}} [[Lord's Resistance Army]]<ref name ='SAS 2007 10'>{{cite book|url=http://www.smallarmssurvey.org/publications/by-type/yearbook/small-arms-survey-2007.html|chapter-url=https://www.smallarmssurvey.org/sites/default/files/resources/Small-Arms-Survey-2007-Chapter-10-EN.pdf|chapter=Persistent Instability: Armed Violence and Insecurity in South Sudan|title=The Small Arms Survey 2007: Guns and the City|publisher=[[Cambridge University Press]]|year=2007|author=[[Small Arms Survey]]|page=325|isbn=978-0-521-88039-8|access-date=August 29, 2018|archive-date=August 27, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180827001033/http://www.smallarmssurvey.org/publications/by-type/yearbook/small-arms-survey-2007.html|url-status=live}}</ref>

==In popular culture==
*M60 was depicted in the American war action films ''[[First Blood]]'' and ''[[Rambo: First Blood Part II]]''.<ref>{{cite book |title=Challenging the Prison-Industrial Complex: Activism, Arts, and Educational Alternatives |date=2011 |publisher=University of Illinois Press |isbn=9780252035821 |page=56 |editor=Stephen J. Hartnett}}</ref><ref>{{cite book |title=Action Movies: The Cinema of Striking Back |date=2012 |publisher=Columbia University Press |isbn=9780231850223 |page=48 |author=Harvey O'Brien}}</ref>
*M60 appeared in the American crime drama show ''[[Breaking Bad]]''. It was first revealed in its season 5 premiere "[[Live Free or Die (Breaking Bad)|Live Free or Die]]" and later used in the show's finale "[[Felina (Breaking Bad)|Felina]]", attached to the trunk of a car and remotely activated.<ref>{{cite book |author1=Dave Trumbore |author2=Donna J. Nelson |title=The Science of Breaking Bad |date=2019 |publisher=MIT Press |isbn=9780262537155 |page=219}}</ref> The use of the gun as depicted in ''Breaking Bad'' was tested in the science entertainment show ''[[MythBusters]]'', determined as plausible.<ref>{{cite web |title= SR Pick: MythBusters Takes On the Breaking Bad Finale |url=https://screenrant.com/mythbusters-breaking-bad-finale/ |website=Screen Rant |date=28 August 2015}}</ref>

==See also==
* [[PK machine gun]], [[Warsaw Pact]] counterpart of the M60
* [[PKP Pecheneg machine gun]]
* [[FN MAG]]
* [[FN Minimi#Maximi|FN Maximi]]
* [[FN Minimi]]
* [[IWI Negev]]
* [[Mk 48 machine gun]]
* [[Sumitomo Type 62]]
* [[Type 67 machine gun]]
* [[UKM-2000]]

==References==
{{Reflist|30em}}

; Other references
*[https://web.archive.org/web/20231023214842/https://www.moore.army.mil/infantry/DoctrineSupplement/ATP3-21.8/PDFs/fm3_22x68.pdf Department of the Army Field Manual No. 3-22.68]
*[https://web.archive.org/web/20040509124024/http://tri.army.mil/lc/CS/csi/satoc.htm#M60 U.S. Army TACOM — Rock Island]
*[http://www.combatindex.com/store/MCWP/Sample/GROUND_COMBAT_OPERATIONS/MCWP_3-15_1.pdf MCWP 3–15.1 United States Marine Corps: "Machine Guns and Machine Gun Gunnery"]
*[https://web.archive.org/web/20051024101347/http://www.navyseals.com/community/navyseals/weapons_m60.cfm Navy SEALs]
*[https://web.archive.org/web/20110101025406/http://www.usord.com/weapons/mk43-mod0 MK43 MOD 0 | Weapons | US Ordnance] U.S. Ordnance Mk 43 MOD 0
*[https://www.taringa.net/comunidades/militares-en-t/9805549/Imagenes-de-UNOPES-GEO-FES-BFP-y-marinos-de-la-armada-de.html {{Not a typo|Imagenes}} de UNOPES, GEO, FES, BFP y marinos de la armada de México]

==External links==
{{Commons and category|M60 (machine gun)|M60 (machine gun)}}
* [http://www.usord.com/ US Ordnance Website] (current maker of M60s, M60D, M60E4/Mk 43)
* [https://archive.org/details/OperatorsManualForM60M122M60d US Army manual: Operator's Manual For M60, M122, M60D]
* {{Internet Archive short film |gov.dod.dimoc.29927 |Machinegun, 7.62mm, M60, Operation and Cycle of Functioning}}
* {{cite journal |title= New Life for a Combat Classic: US Ordnance MK43 Mod 1 Machine Gun |last= Bruce |first= Robert |journal= Small Arms Defense Journal |date= Spring 2009 |pages= 66–71 |url= http://www.sadefensejournal.com/images/mk43.pdf |access-date= April 6, 2010 |archive-date= May 1, 2011 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20110501154441/http://www.sadefensejournal.com/images/mk43.pdf |url-status= dead}} The article includes a detailed list of the twenty-two improvements made over previous versions of the M60.

{{General Purpose Machine Guns}}
{{Modern US Infantry Weapons}}
{{USAF equipment}}

{{DEFAULTSORT:M60 Machine Gun}}
[[Category:7.62×51mm NATO machine guns]]
[[Category:Aircraft guns]]
[[Category:FG 42 derivatives]]
[[Category:General-purpose machine guns]]
[[Category:Infantry weapons of the Cold War]]
[[Category:Machine guns of the United States]]
[[Category:Weapons and ammunition introduced in 1957]]