POTD: Heckler & Koch HK421 - The New Light Machine Gun
A little more than a year ago, TFB published images of the new Heckler & Koch HK421 as it was teased at DSEI in London 2023. For our Photo Of The Day, we have a brand new image, where the HK421 can be seen with a 13” (330 mm) barrel and a machine gun-rated suppressor from ASE Utra (Finland).
The optics are an Aimpoint red dot sight with a magnifier, and there’s a laser sight on the right side of the gun to help aim further (except this one reads “Dummy”). There’s a front grip with an integrated bipod. The weight of the 13” version is about 8.5 kilograms. Not too bad for a machine gun based on the MG5, and in caliber 7.62mm x 51 NATO. The ammo box above holds 60 rounds, belted, and there’s a larger one with 120 rounds also. There are configurations in 13”, 16.5” and 22” for when you need an extra long barrel. The safety works regardless of the state of the weapon.
Photo source: polizeipraxis.de. Photo by Heckler & Koch
Ex-Arctic Ranger. Competitive practical shooter and hunter with a European focus. Always ready to increase my collection of modern semi-automatics, optics, thermals and suppressors. TCCC Certified. Occasionaly seen in a 6x6 Bug Out Vehicle, always with a big smile.
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Not really certain what the intent of this machine gun is.
It is very difficult to maneuver with a belt-fed weapon. That is why the USMC moved away from them in infantry squads.
Although this weapon is lighter than other types, it is not a light weapon.
That doesn't seem like much of a stock for such a tugboat of a gun.