This manual provides technical information, training techniques, and guidance on the M249 light machine gun in the automatic rifle role, which was formerly known as the squad automatic weapon (SAW). Since this manual addresses the M249's use in the automatic rifle role as opposed to the light machine gun role, it is referred to in this manual as the M249 AR. Unit leaders and the designated automatic riflemen will find this information invaluable in their efforts to successfully integrate this automatic weapon into their combat operations.
The tactical positions shown in this manual may not be tactically correct, but they were drawn to enhance the reader's understanding of related subject material.
Unless this publication states otherwise, masculine nouns and pronouns do not refer exclusively to men.
The proponent of this publication is the United States Army Infantry School. Send comments and recommendations on DA Form 2028 directly to Commandant, US Army Infantry School, ATTN: ATSH-IN-S3, Fort Benning, GA 31905-5596.
DISTRIBUTION RESTRICTION: Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.
*This publication supersedes FM 23-14, 10 December 1985; and rescinds DA Form 5503-R, December 1985.