TC 3-22.50 — Heavy Machine Gun M2 Series
TC 3-22.50 governs safe weapons handling, aiming, employment, stability, control, and movement for the M2/M2A1.
- Publication number: TC 3-22.50
- Title: HEAVY MACHINE GUN M2 SERIES
- Date: 05/19/2017
- Proponent: T2COM
- Status: ACTIVE
View TC 3-22.50 on armypubs.army.mil
TC 3-22.50 covers weapon operation, aiming devices, mountable equipment, ammunition, ballistics, engagement techniques, zeroing, and qualification. It requires adherence to firearms safety precepts during training and combat operations, regardless of ammunition type, except as noted.
Topics covered
- Safe weapons handling
- Rules of firearms safety
- Weapon safety status
- Aiming devices
- Machine gun tripods and mounts
- Shot process
- Firing positions
- Malfunctions
Questions and answers
What safety measures does TC 3-22.50 require for handling weapons?
The weapons handling measures provide redundant safety measures when handling any weapon or weapon system in training and operational environments. (paragraph 1-3)
When must Soldiers follow the rules of firearms safety?
Soldiers must adhere to these precepts during training and combat operations, regardless of the type of ammunition employed, except as noted above. (paragraph 1-4)
How should a weapon be treated when it is handled?
Any weapon handled by a Soldier must be treated as if it is loaded and prepared to fire. (paragraph 1-5)
What must be clear between the muzzle and the target?
Soldiers must ensure the path between the muzzle and target is clear of friendly forces, noncombatants, or anything the Soldier does not want to strike. (paragraph 1-7)
What does weapon safety status represent?
Weapon safety status is a standard code that uses common colors (green, amber, red, and black) to represent the level of readiness for a given weapon. (paragraph 1-13)