What caliber does the M249 Squad Automatic Weapon (SAW) fire?

The M249 Squad Automatic Weapon (SAW) fires the 5.56mm NATO caliber. This caliber is favored for several reasons, particularly in infantry and squad-level engagements. The 5.56mm round provides a balance between manageable recoil, allowing for controlled automatic fire, and sufficient lethality at effective ranges. Additionally, this caliber is lightweight and allows soldiers to carry more ammunition, which is critical in combat situations where sustained fire may be necessary.

The design of the M249 optimally complements the characteristics of the 5.56mm NATO round, making it a vital component of the U.S. military's infantry firepower. Its ability to fire in both semi-automatic and automatic modes enhances flexibility on the battlefield and allows for effective suppression of enemy forces.

Other calibers listed, such as 7.62mm NATO, .50 BMG, and 9mm Parabellum, are utilized in different contexts and have distinct applications. The 7.62mm NATO is often used in designated marksman rifles or machine guns for greater range and stopping power, the .50 BMG is primarily used in heavy machine guns and sniper systems for long-range engagements, while the 9mm Parabellum is typically reserved