Improved Machine Gun Tripod Systems

Improved Machine Gun Tripod Systems

Mission:
Provide lightweight tripods that enable quicker and more accurate target engagements for dismounted machine guns.

Description:
The M205 Lightweight Tripod for Heavy Machine Guns provides a stable firing platform for the M2/M2A1 and MK19, replacing the currently used M3 tripod. With the 34-pound M205, the Soldier will experience 32 percent less weight than with the standard 50-pound M3 Tripod with T&E and pintle. Soldiers will also be able to take advantage of the enhanced tripod’s integrated T&E mechanism.

The M205 collapses to less than 50 percent of deployed height and width and will not require adapters. The tripod takes advantage of the full range and versatility of the M2/M2A1 and MK19 and allows for consistent elevation and depression throughout the full range of motion. The mount provides an integral T&E mechanism that allows for quicker, more accurate target engagement and allows for one-handed operation.

The M192 Lightweight Ground Mount for Machine Guns is an improved-capability ground mount that replaces the M122A1 and M122 Tripods. The M192 is a compact and collapsible ground mount that reduces the Soldier’s combat load and improves mobility. At 11.5 pounds, the M192 features a lower profile and weighs approximately six pounds less than the M122A1 Tripod it replaced. The mount provides an integral Traversing and Elevation (T&E) mechanism that allows for quicker, more accurate target engagement and allows for one-handed operation. This T&E mechanism accommodates the M240B, M240L and M249 Machine Guns and eliminates the user’s need for adaptors to mount these machine guns.

Other features include a traverse limit stop, a built-in spent case deflector and the ability to fold up and store in the spare barrel bag. The mount includes corrosion-resistant protective finishes.

There is also an on-going improvement effort for the M192 to address performance issues reported by Soldiers. The primary thrust for this effort was to raise the pintle height 3-4 inches while also increasing the ground clearance of the T&E mechanism. A more ergonomic traverse limit stop was also developed. These improvements are part of an upgrade kit to be fielded as a Modification Work Order (MWO) to the M192, which initiated fielding in May 2021.

Specifications:
M192

  • Weight: 11.5 pounds
  • Length: Stowed 24 inches; deployed 31.75 inches
  • Width: Stowed 11.0 inches; deployed 34.0 inches
  • Height: Stowed 6.5 inches; deployed 10.75 inches

M205

  • Weight: 34 pounds
  • Length: Stowed 46 inches; deployed 75 inches
  • Width: Stowed 12 inches; deployed 69 inches
  • Height: Stowed 8 inches; deployed 25 inches