A U.S. Army soldier unleashes suppressed 7.62 fury from an M240L at Fort Benning — because sometimes the quiet part is still pretty loud. Image Credit: United States Army
Today’s SOFREP Pic of the Day is hot off the ranges of Fort Benning. This photograph of a soldier firing a suppressed M240L was taken on April 11, 2025 at the famed Georgia Army post that my brothers and I used to call the “Benning school for boys”.
The M240L: Lightening the Load Without Sacrificing Firepower
In the unforgiving crucible of combat, every ounce matters. The M240L, a lighter variant of the venerable M240B medium machine gun, embodies this principle by shedding weight without compromising the firepower that troops rely on.
A Leaner Warhorse
The M240L, introduced in 2010, stands as proof of the evolution of battlefield technology. By incorporating titanium components and a redesigned barrel assembly, the M240L achieves a weight reduction of approximately 5.5 pounds compared to the M240B. This significant decrease eases the burden on dismounted infantry, enhancing mobility and reducing fatigue during extended operations. Imagine humping around a sack of potatoes all day; that’s about how much weight the Lima variant has shed.
Despite its lighter frame, the M240L maintains the robust performance characteristics of its predecessor. It continues to deliver the reliable 7.62x51mm NATO firepower that has become a staple in U.S. military operations. The weapon’s durability and reliability remain uncompromised, ensuring that troops can depend on it in the most demanding conditions.
Suppressed Firepower
Modern combat scenarios often demand stealth and reduced acoustic signatures. The M240L addresses this need with compatibility for suppressors, allowing for quieter operation without sacrificing performance. This feature is particularly beneficial during special operations and missions requiring a lower profile, enhancing the tactical versatility of the weapon. It’s not Hollywood quiet, but they do lessen the sound signature of the weapon.
Operational Impact
The introduction of the M240L has had a tangible impact on infantry operations. The reduced weight translates to increased maneuverability, allowing soldiers to reposition more swiftly and with less fatigue. This agility is crucial in dynamic combat environments where speed and adaptability can be the difference between mission success and failure.
Today’s SOFREP Pic of the Day is hot off the ranges of Fort Benning. This photograph of a soldier firing a suppressed M240L was taken on April 11, 2025 at the famed Georgia Army post that my brothers and I used to call the “Benning school for boys”.
The M240L: Lightening the Load Without Sacrificing Firepower
In the unforgiving crucible of combat, every ounce matters. The M240L, a lighter variant of the venerable M240B medium machine gun, embodies this principle by shedding weight without compromising the firepower that troops rely on.
A Leaner Warhorse
The M240L, introduced in 2010, stands as proof of the evolution of battlefield technology. By incorporating titanium components and a redesigned barrel assembly, the M240L achieves a weight reduction of approximately 5.5 pounds compared to the M240B. This significant decrease eases the burden on dismounted infantry, enhancing mobility and reducing fatigue during extended operations. Imagine humping around a sack of potatoes all day; that’s about how much weight the Lima variant has shed.
Despite its lighter frame, the M240L maintains the robust performance characteristics of its predecessor. It continues to deliver the reliable 7.62x51mm NATO firepower that has become a staple in U.S. military operations. The weapon’s durability and reliability remain uncompromised, ensuring that troops can depend on it in the most demanding conditions.
Suppressed Firepower
Modern combat scenarios often demand stealth and reduced acoustic signatures. The M240L addresses this need with compatibility for suppressors, allowing for quieter operation without sacrificing performance. This feature is particularly beneficial during special operations and missions requiring a lower profile, enhancing the tactical versatility of the weapon. It’s not Hollywood quiet, but they do lessen the sound signature of the weapon.
Operational Impact
The introduction of the M240L has had a tangible impact on infantry operations. The reduced weight translates to increased maneuverability, allowing soldiers to reposition more swiftly and with less fatigue. This agility is crucial in dynamic combat environments where speed and adaptability can be the difference between mission success and failure.
Furthermore, the M240L’s compatibility with existing M240B accessories ensures a seamless transition for units upgrading to the lighter model. This interoperability minimizes the logistical footprint and training requirements, facilitating rapid deployment and integration into active units.
Wrapping Up
It may be lighter, but the M240L still isn’t exactly a gentle hiking companion. Your shoulders, lower back, and chiropractor will continue to know it well. But hey — at least now you can carry slightly more misery with all the knockdown power of the old model.
As someone who’s seen what happens when the truth is distorted, I know how unfair it feels when those who’ve sacrificed the most lose their voice. At SOFREP, our veteran journalists, who once fought for freedom, now fight to bring you unfiltered, real-world intel. But without your support, we risk losing this vital source of truth. By subscribing, you’re not just leveling the playing field—you’re standing with those who’ve already given so much, ensuring they continue to serve by delivering stories that matter. Every subscription means we can hire more veterans and keep their hard-earned knowledge in the fight. Don’t let their voices be silenced. Please consider subscribing now.
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Brandon Webb former Navy SEAL, Bestselling Author and Editor-in-Chief
Guy D. McCardle is a sixteen-year veteran of the United States Army and most recently served as a Medical Operations Officer during OIF I and OIF II. He holds a degree in Biology from Washington & Jefferson College and is a graduate of the US Army Academy of Health Sciences. Guy has been a contributing writer to Apple News, Business Insider, International Business Times, and
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