R-TR-74-Q53

EVALUATION OF THE .50 CALIBER M8C SPOTTING RIFLE

MALFUNCTIONS EXPERIENCED BY FORT POLK

By

FREDERICK P. REED
. and
RICHARD L. JAYNE

30 May 1974

Approved for public release; distribution unlimited.

ROCK ISLAND ARSENAL

GENERAL THOMAS J. RODMAN LABORATORY
ROCK ISLAND, ILLINOIS 61201
 ABSTRACT
The results ascertained from the test firing simulation of the
field environmental conditions of the M8C Spotting Rifle pin-pointed
the probable origin of weapon malfunctions referenced in EIR J41751
(Equipment Improvement Report. dated Nove~ber 1973, Appendix B). The
ensuing studies and tests examined. extensively the factors pertaining
to magazine design. adjustment of the needle regulating valve, carbon
build-up in gas regulator bushing, housing and receiver fit. extractor
and slide key design, and characteristics of the ammunitions and
mounts.
After collating all aspects of the data acquired through test
firing and corresponding investigations. the primary correlation per-
taining to malfunctions exists with improper gas regulator needle
adjustment. resulting in insufficient or extreme slide and bolt velo-
cities. The recommendations which when implemented will remedy the
critical areas/components which jeopardize the efficient functioning
of the weapon are: investigate. test and if warranted issue a re-
designed regulator needle; improve overall maintenance, specifically
cleaning procedures on the regulator bushing; lubrication change;
changes in the drawings of the slide and housing; insure proper
extractor fabrication; and replace the present 20-round magazine with
the original IO-round design. Furthermore. initiate a supplementary
analysis to determine feasibility of redesigning the bullet config-
uration of the T249E2 ammunition to conform to that of the M48A2
ammunition.

ii
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• n hala
SECURITY CLASSIFICATION OF T HIS PAG E ( W DE ,.. tlilt•
d)

1. REPOAT NUMBER

R-TR-74-053
REPORT DOCUMENTATION PAGE
-r' ':;OVT ACCESSION NO
READ INSTRUCTIONS
BEFORE COMPLETING FORM

'l9Jl;;:;;OT(;/"i,
4. TITLE (lUId. Subtitle) S. TYPE OF REPORT a PERIOD COVERED

Evaluation of the 50 Caliber ~~C Spotting Final, Nov 73 - May 74

Rifle Malfunctions Experienced by Fort Polk 6. PERFORMING ORG. REPORT NUMBER

7. AUTHOR(e) 8. CONTRACT OR GRANT NUMBER(a)

Frederick P. Reed
Richard L. Jayne
9. PERFORMING ORGANIZATION NAME AND ADDRESS 10. PROGRAM ELEMENT. PROJECT, TASK
AREA a WORK UNIT NUMBERS
GEN Thomas J. Rodman Laboratory (SARRI-LS-A)
Rock Island Arsenal
Rock Island, IL 61201
It. CONTROLLING OFFICE NAME AND ADDRESS 12. REPORT DATE
GEN Thomas J. Rodman Laboratory (SARRI-LS-P) 30 May 1974
Rock Island Arsenal
Rock Island, IL 61201
". NUMBER OF PIAGES 7'7
14. MONITORING AGENCY NAME a ACORESS(" dltfennt from Controlllnit Office)
". SECURITY CL.ASS. (of thJ. ,,,p,,rt)

Unclassified
15.11. DECL ASSI FI C ATI ON! DOWN GRADIN G
SCHEDUL.E

16. DISTRIBUTION STATEMENT (01 thJs Report)

Approved for public release; distribution unlimited.

17. OlSTRtBUTION STATEMENT (0/01 • • b.tract entered In Block '0, U dllierent /rom Report)

0 0 C
ffi)ltiQ)r;:: nn III r'
~~ FEB 28 1975
18. SUPPLEMENTARY MOTES
R.prcduced by
NATIONAL TECHNICAL
INFORMATION SERVICE
U S Oapc:rtma"t of Co:nmerce U~TI1T[5
n
,..
____ Spri~~ld VA 22151 _ i.....<
--

KEY WORDS (Contift'ue en reverse alde II neceu'''' .-tel Identify by bloclc ntmlber)

Spotting Rifle Slide

Regulator Needle ~lagazine
Extractor Housing

20. ABSTRACT (Continua em re ..er•• • ld. II n.c•••.,. t61d Identify by block number)

The· results ascertained from the test firing simulation of the field environ-
mental conditions of the M8C Spotting Rifle pin-pointed the probable orlgln
of weapon malfunctions referenced in EIR J41751 (Equipment Improvsment Report,
dated November 1973, Appendix 8). The ensuing studies and tests examined
extensively the factors pertaining to magazine design, adjustment of the
needle regulating valve, carbon build-up in gas regulator bushing, housing
and receiver fit, extractor and slide key design, and characteristics of the
ammunitions and mounts. .
U~~~IIUU
~

DO 1 ~~:';. 1473 EDITION OF I NOV 65 IS OBSOLETE

•
I SECURITY CLASSIFICATION OF THIS PAGE (When Data Bntered)
 UNCLASSIFI EO
SECURITY CLASSIPICATION OF THiS PAGiIll('ft_ Daf. "'-..0

Block 20. ABSTRACT (Continued)

. After collating all aspects of the data acquired through test firing and corre-
sponding investigations. the primary correlation pertaining to malfunctions
exists with improper gas regulator needle adjustment, resulting in insufficient
or extreme slide and bolt velocities. The recommendations which when imple-
mented will remedy the critical areas/components which jeopardize the efficient
functioning of the weapon are: investigate. test and if warranted issue a re-
designed regulator needle; improve overall maintenance. specifically cleaning
procedures on the regulator bushing; lubrication change; changes in the draw-
ings of the slide and housing; insure proper extractor fabrication; and replace
the present 20-round magazine with the original 10-round design. Furthermore,
initiate a supplementary analysis to determine feasibility of redesigning the
bullet configuration of the T249E2 ammunition to conform to that of the M48A2
ammun it ion.

i~ UNCLASSIFIED
SECURITY CLAUlPlCATION OP' TNIS ...AG. . . . ~ . . . . . . ,
 FOREWORD

The authors would like to express their deepest thanks and grati-
tude to the following personnel for their assistance, participation,
and valuable contributions during this investigative testing at the
Keith L. Ware Test Center, Rock Island Arsenal and at Ft. Polk, LA.
At Rock Island Arsenal:
Mr. Charles Calhoun SARRI-LE
Mr. Charles Boggs SARRI-LE
Mr. Edwi n Kemp SARRI-LE
Mrs. Pattsy Swanson SARRI-LE
Mr. Elmer Metzger SARRI-AV
Mr. Robert Devore SARRI-AV
Mr. Albert Cole SARRI-LS-P
Mr. Dennis Ash SARRI-LS-P
Mr. Loren Brunton SARRI-LS-P
Mr. Dennis Billiet SARRI-LS-P
Mr. Fred Stratman SARRI-LS-P
Mr. L. R. Coulson AMSAR-MAA-S
Mr. Harold Miles SARRI-QP
Mr. William Ames SARRI-PF
Mr. George Peddle SARRI-PF
Mr. John Devine SARRI-H
At Fort Polk:
LTC Bushyhead Training Committee
LTC Stalker Training Committee
LT D. Sell ers Training Committee
MSG Daley Training Committee
SFC Carpenter Training Committee
Mr. W. Funderburg BID, Maint
Mr. W. Willis BID, Maint

iii
 CONTENTS

TITLE PAGE i

ABSTRACT ii

FORE\~ORD iii
CONTENTS iv
INTRODUCTION 1

BACKGROUND 3

WEAPON EVALUATION 6

CONCLUSIONS 56
RECor~t~ENDATIONS 57

DISTRIBUTION 87

LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS
Figure No.
1 Drawing of M8C Spotting Rifle 2
2 Ft. Polk, Natural Terrain II.

3 Ft. Polk, Cement Pads 5

4 RIA Simulation of Natural Terrain 7
5 RIA Simulation of Cement Pads a
6 AOD Mount 9
7 Jeep 10
8 Armllunition 11
9 Graph of TO Curves 13
10 Jammed Cartridge (caused by underpower) -,
?'

11 Jammed Cartridge (caused by underpower) 22

12 Stub (caused by overpower) 23
13 Close-up of the Effect of a Stub 211.

iv
Figure No.
14 Graph of Vertical Displacement 25
15 Sharp Extractor Claw 27
16 Extractor Drawing with .031 + .010R 29
17 Extractor Wear 30
18 Proper.ly Fabricated Extractor 31
19 Housing Looseness 32
20 Radi i on Sl ide 33
21 Sharp Slide Key Edges 34
22 20-Round Magazine 35
23 10-Round Magazine 36
24 Comparison of Projectile Tips 38
25 Feed Ramp 39
26 Gas Regulator Bushing Cleaning Means 41
27 Gap Between Housing and Receiver 42
28 Target Accuracy Acquisition of Work Weapon 31343 43
29 Target Accuracy Requirement/Expectancy 44
30 Staking Abuse to Receiver Screws 45
31 Modified and Present Slide Keys 46
32 Housing Inspection Gage 47
33 Testing Housing Before Modification 48
34 Housing Modification Gage 49
35 Utilization of Housing Modification Gage 50
36 Testing Housing After Modification 51
37 Extractor Inspection Gage 52
38 Testing Extractor Before Modification 53
39 Testing Extractor After Modification 54
40 Cartridge Case with Severe Extractor Marks 55
41 Portion of Slide Drawing F7266409 58
42 Portion of Housing Assembly Drawing F7268117 59
43 Portion of Extractor Drawing D7266757 60
44 Comparison of Proposed and Present Needles 81
45 Needle Bottomed Exposing Threads 85

v
 LIST OF TABLES

Table No.
I MSC Spotting Rifle, Slide Displacement 14
II Gun Setting to Contact Buffer 15
III Tabulation of All Malfunctions Occurring 16
During Testing
IV Synopsis of Malfunctions Recorded on Edited 19
Film
V Tabulation of Turns Open to Acquire Function 26
VI Tabulation of Deficiencies, Consequences, 40
and Remedies
VII Tabular Values of Weapon, Mount, Ammunition 65
Mean Velocity, and Distance of Measurement
VIII Tabular Values of Turns Open, Range of 82
Mean Velocity, and Distance of Measurement

LIST OF APPENDIXES
Appendix
A Analysis of the Velocity 61
B Equipment Improvement Report J41751 66
C Test Firing Records 69
D Corrective Actions Taken 79

vi
 INTRODUCTION

The basis for creation of the ensuing analysis originated when

severe fragmentation injuries occurred during training exercises at
Fort Polk, Louisiana. These injuries were inflicted by disintegra-
tion of .50 caliber cartridge cases after stubbing occurred on two
M8C Spotting Rifles (Figure 1). The Small Arms Weapon Systems Direc-
torate was notified of the hazardous conditions prevailing through
the submission of an Equipment Improvement Report (see Appendix B).
The EIR reported that the detonation of an unchambered stubbed round
occurred when the cartridge primer was struck by the bolt front.
The remedial training policy adopted consisted of a single round hand
loading operation in lieu of magazine feeding. Consequently, signi-
ficant disruption evolved curtailing efficient utilization of the
training schedule.
During the evaluation process, numerous deficiencies became evi-
dent in the manufacturing of new and the maintenance of field weapons.
A multitude of these items discovered did'not correspond directly to
the detonation problem experienced at Ft. Polk, but could result in
a weapon not performing with maximum efficiency. Extreme slide and
bolt velocity, a direc~consequence of poor regulator needle adjust-
ment, does correlate to the malfunctions referenced in the EIR and
the investigation is based upon this principle. For the purpose of
elimination of the inexpedient training procedure and rectification
of all deficiencies, the subsequent report not only addresses the
individual components/areas found liable for the detonation problem,
but those found in the manufacturing and maintenance of the weapons.
The conclusions and recommendations integrate all deficiencies
uncovered, thus addressing not only the Ft. Polk malfunctions but
all contingent malfunctions.

1
 BUFFER i\SSEMffi.'l' -7266342
2-ROD-7261851
2-SPRlNG-72GG41~
SLIUE -7266409
BOLT ASSEMBLY -1.26634.
HANDLE, CHAHGlNG ASSEMBLY -71.67383
'// AEOUl.ATOR-"f790B71
NUi -7266631- ~-
/
liUSHING -7266933-
/' 6USHING-7266630- ~ ~ ~
./ CYLINDER, GAS -7190e-,0 ~~
ROD, OPERATING ,
AS5F.MRLY-72~

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It .." .... LI nil! ...... 011 \Oro,.,... ..sT0••

FIGURE 1
SPOTTING RIFLE •. 50 CALIBER. MBC
 BACKGROUND

In response to EIR J41751, Small Arms personnel visited Ft. Polk

on 12 and 13 November 1973 to observe M8C Spotting Rifles in use and
firing practices employed. Resulting from this initial investigation,
two M8C Spotting Rifles having a malfunction history together with a
quantity of Spotter-Tracer (M48A2) ammunition, currently in use at
Ft. Polk, were shipped to Rock Island Arsenal for use in the investi-
gation. To replace these weapons, two new Spotting Rifles, manufac-
tured at Rock Island Arsenal and having an acceptable performance
record were sent to Ft. Polk.
For the purpose of analyzing and administering the testing of
the new weapons shipped, an engineering team traveled to Ft. Polk
during the week of 10 December 1973. These new weapons, together
with two other weapons selected at random from the Ft. Polk supply,
were fired from both soft (Figure 2) and hard (Figure 3) mounts and
both the T249E2 (practice) and M48A2 (combat) ammunitions were used.
Approximately 500 rounds of ammunition were fired and 59 rolls of
high speed films taken during the four days. On 18 December 1973,
upon returning from travel, a meeting convened to review the films,
observe data, and discuss potential corrective measures. This meet-
ing resulted in the initiation and accomplishment of an in-depth test
firing investigation at the Keith L. Ware Test Center (15-30 January
1974, see Weapon Evaluation).

3
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FIGURE 3
Firing set-up on Cement Pads at Range 34A, Ft. Polk, LA of the MaC
Spotting Rifle on the l06mm, M40Al, with M79 Mount
 WEAPON EVALUATION

After ascertaining the environmental parameters existing at Ft.

Polk, an in-depth evaluation was conducted to simulate these major
parameters so as to determine possible causes of Ft. Polk's malfunc-
tions. Figures 2 and 3 illustrate two firing ranges presently
employed at Ft. Polk and demonstrate the variation in surfaces, nat-
ural terrain and cement pads respectively on which the M79 Mount had
been placed. At the Keith L. Ware Test Center, Rock Island Arsenal,
the natural terrain had been simulated by incorporating rubber buffer
pads beneath the mount (Figure 4) whereas for the cement pad simula-
tion, the mount had been allowed to rest on the cement floor of the
test range (Figure 5). In addition to the M79 Mount, the evaluation
also included test data obtained from the AOD endurance test firing
mount (Figure 6) and the M38A1 utility truck (Figure 7). During this
intensive investigation a total of 68 time-displacement curves, 42
rolls of high speed film, and 50 still photographs were taken during
the firing of 1010 rounds of practice and spotter-tracer ammunition
to document this evaluation.

EQUIPMENT UTILIZED DURING TESTING

1. A!rnnunition (Figure 8)
A. Practice, Caliber .50, T249E2
Lot LC-12016
Lake City Army Ammunition Plant
Dated 1964
Weight - 4.85 lbs per 20 rounds
B. Spotter-Tracer, Caliber .50, M48A2
Lot LC-21-31
Lake City Army Ammunition Plant
Dated 1971
Weight - 4.91 lbs per 20 rounds
11. Mounts
A. ADD Firing Fixture
Weight of Recoiling Mass 79 lbs
Weight of Nonrecoiling Mass 51. 5 1bs
Total Weight 130.5 lbs
Spring Rate 175 lbs/in
Preload (Mount Recoil Spring) 60 lbs

6
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FIGURE 4

Simulation set-up at the Keith L. Ware Test Range of the

Natural Terrain at Ft. Polk, LA
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FIGURE 6
Rock Island Arsenal AOD Endurance Test Fixture
(Used for acceptance test firing of all .50 Cal. M8C Spotting Rifles)
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10
11
 B. M79 with 106mm Rifle, M40Al
1. M79
Stock No. COOl-8403200
Serial No. 133
Date of Fabrication 9-54
Weight - 180 lbs
2. 106mm
Rifle RCLS M40A1
Serial No. 5664
Weight - 245 lbs
C. M38A1 Utility Truck
Spring Rate
Displacement Force
(Inches ) (Pounds)
1/4 170
1/2 275
3/4 453
1 630
After collating the time-displacement curves, a correlation
between needle and slide velocity became clearly evident. Figure
9 illustrates this relationship with needle settings of 12/6, 9/6,
6/6, 5/6, and 2/6 turns open corresponding to velocities of 15, 13,
11, 6, and 0 feet per second respectively. The reference point at
which these velocities have been derived denotes a distance of 5.9
inches from battery which is equivalent to start of ejection. (For
a synopsis of weapon events at specific distances, see Table I).
To acquire a satisfactory functioning weapon, buffer contact by
the slide becomes imperative, and Table II tabulates the values of
the needle settings in the corresponding test weapons essential for
attaining buffer contact. In examining the comprehensive tabulation
of the malfunctions (Table III) which transpired during testing, a
direct relationship exists between insufficient needle setting (less
than buffer contact), extreme needle setting (high buffer impact
velocity), and the incidents of malfunctions. By editing and splic-
ing each film in which a malfunction occurred, a composite film was
constructed to consolidate and closely review pertinent information
recorded (for a synopsis, see Table IV).

12
 6/6
2/6
9/6

1216 5/6
BUFFER
CONTACT
EJECTOR
CONTACT

.....
w

FIGURE 9
Gas regulator needle settings of 12/6, 9/6, 6/6, 5/6, and 2/6 turns open which correspond
to velocities of 15, 13, 11, 6, and 0 feet per second respectively. The velocities listed
correspond to the slide velocity at start of ejection (5.9 inches from battery).
 TABLE I

M8C SPOTTING RIFLE SLIDE DISPLACEMENT

During one complete cycle of firing in the Caliber .50, M8C Spotting
Rifles, the following functions relative to slide displacement are
occurring:
Distance Slide
Function Moves From Battery
(In Recoil) Position (Recoil)
Unlocking Starts .650
Unlocking Completed .830
Extraction Starts .840
End of Piston Stroke 1.050
Hammer Seared 3.250
Ejection Starts 5.900
Buffer Contact 6.400

Distance Slide ~oves

Function From Buffer to Battery
(In Counter Recoil) Position (Counter Recoil)
Round Pick-up Starts .650
Round Nose Cammed Towards Chamber 1.150
Round Nose Contacts Feed Ramp 1.250
Round Base Leaves Mag Lips 2.060
Locking Starts 5.700
Locking Complete 5.850
Slide Contacts Operating Rod 6.000
Firing Pin Retractor Contacted 6.150
Firing Pin Retractor Fully Cammed 6.250
Slide Fully Home 6.400

14
 TABU II

GUN SETTING TO CONTACT BU~FFER

AOD MOUNT M79 MOUNT JEEP

WEAPON NO. **Average **Average **Average
*Setting Velocity *Setting Velocity *Setting Velocity

0 5/6 96 5/6 97 5/6 113

......
01

29815 NA 6/6 81 6/6 78

31343 6/6 146 NA NA

* The regulator needle is indexed by 1/6 increments. thus 6/6 equals one complete
revolution of the needle.
** Velocity of slide in recoil at start of ejection (shown in inches/seconds).
NA Not Assessed.
 TABLE III

TABULATION OF ALL MALFUNCTIONS OCCURRING DURING TESTING

The total number of malfunctions recorded during testing at the Keith L. Ware Test Range equals 25.
KEY * = Edited into the Malfunction Film
TD = Recorded on Time-Displacement Curves
Scene = Recorded on Film
Pra = Practice Ammunition (T249E2)
S-T = Spotter-Tracer Ammunition (M48A2)
~
FJ = Failure to Eject (see Figures 10 and 11)
FF = Failure to Feed
'" Stub = See Figures 12 and 13

Turn Open Number of No. of Rds

Of Regulator Rounds Means of Loaded in
Malfunction Needle Fired Ammunition Recording Magazine
Weapon # 0 on the AOD Mount (see Figure 6)
FJ 3/6 1 Pra TD # 18 19
FJ 4/6 2 Pra TD # 19 19
Stub 8/6 18 Pra 19
 Turn Open Number of No. of Rds
Of Regulator Rounds Means of Loaded in
Ma lfunct ion Needle Fired Ammunition Recording Magazine
Weapon # 31343 on the AOO Mount (see Figure 6)
FJ 2/6 1 Pra TO # 30 19
FJ 3/6 1 Pra TO # 31 19
FJ 4/6 1 Pra TO # 32 19
* FJ 5/6 2 Pra Scene A 19
* FJ 5/6 2 Pra Scene B 17
...... * FF 12/6 2 Pra Scene Q 19
.....
* Stub 12/6 1 Pra Scene R 17
Stub 12/6 2 Pra TO # 37 19
Stub 12/6 4 Pra TO # 38 19
Weapon # 0 on the M79 (see Figure 4)

FJ 2/6 1 Pra 1
FJ 2/6 1 Pra TO # 39 1
FJ 3/6 2 Pra TO # 40 19
* FJ 4/6 14 Pra Scene 1A 19
 Turn Open Number of No. of Rds
Of Regulator Rounds Means of Loaded in
Malfunction Needle Fired Ammunition Recording .J:1Mazine
Weapon # 29815 on the M79 (Figure 4)
FJ 2/6 1 Pra TO # 50 19
FJ 4/6 1 Pra TO # 51 19
FJ 5/6 2 Pra 19

>-"
FJ 5/6 10 Pra TO # 52 19
co
FJ 9/6 9 Pra Scene 6A 19
* Stub 12/6 16 S-T Scene BA 19
Weapon # 29B15 on the Jeep (Figure 7)
FJ 4/6 2 Pra TO # 58 19

* FJ 5/6 12 Pra Scene 9A 19

* Firing 12/6 4 S-T Scene 13A 10
Pi n Broke
 TAB-lE IV
SYNOII.US OFMAlFUNClLONSRUORDlD QN EDJTED FILM

Round Which
Turns Open Type of Ma lfuncti on
Seguence Serial No. Mount Ammunition (From Closed) Malfunction Occurred

1 31343 ADD Practice 5/6 FJ 2

2 31343 AOD Practice 5/6 FJ 2
3 31343 AOD Practice 12/6 FF 3
.....
<0 4 31343 AOD Practice 12/6 Stub 2
5 0 M79 Practice 4/6 FJ 14
6 29815 M79 Spotter-Tracer 12/6 Stub 17
7 29815 Jeep Practice 5/6 No malfunction, but example
of weak ejection.
8 29815 Jeep Practice 5/6 FJ 12
9 29815 Jeep Spotter-Tracer 12/6 Broken 4
Firing Pin
KEY FJ = Failure to Eject
FF = Fai lure to Feed
Stub = Nose of Incoming Round Strikes Front of Chamber or Front of Magazine
 Through correlation of the malfunction rate and needle setting,
a direct correspondence exists between the two .. By analyzing the
tabulation of malfunctions (Table III), evidence clearly indicates
that a needle setting less than 1 turn open becomes susceptible to
failures to eject whereas in settings above 1-1/2 turns open stubbing
becomes prevailent (see Figures 10 thru 13). A graph of the vertical
displacement of the needle versus equivalent diameter of the differ-
ence in area between the gas port and cross section of the needle is
given in Figure 14. This graph shows the relationship between the
maximum and minimum dimensional conditions of the 26-degree regulator
needle. In addition, the maximum and minimum conditions are given
for an efficient operation interval of 1-1/12 to 1-1/2 turns open.
When instructing on the proper procedure for regulation of the gas
system, Ft. Polk, the originator of the Equipment Improvement Report,
advocates initially closing the regulator needle until bottomed on the
wing nut, then rotating the needle 1-1/2 turns in the counter-clockwise
direction. A regulator setting of 1-1/2 turns does fall within the
acceptable interval (1 to. 1-1/2 turns) for efficient operation·of the
Spotting Rifle. To determine if their procedure actually yielded a
1-1/2 turn setting, Ft. Polk submitted a tabulation of the turns open
to acquire functioning on 16 random training weapons (Table V). Our-
ing the inquiry into malfunctions related to case ejection failures,
each gas regulator system was thoroughly cleaned of all carbon parti-
cles. After this cleaning had been performed, the test weapons required
a minimum needle setting of 4/6 and 5/6 turns open on the new and old
weapons respectively to obtain efficient component functioning. Through
the examination of the tabulated values for the acquisition of function-
ing (Table V), a significant number of weapons (8 out of 16) operated
at a setting less than the 4/6 turns open required with the new weap-
ons, while 14 operated at a setting less than the 5/6 turns open re-
quired for the old weapons. The old weapons used in our testing were
shipped to Rock Island Arsenal as representative of presently employed
training weapons at Ft. Polk. A numerical comparison of minimum set-
tings at both installations resulted in a conclusion that the carbon
build-up significantly influences the bottoming procedure in the ini-
tial step of the gas regulation, thus inhibiting the needle from being
fully bottomed. Consequently, after opening the required 1-1/2 turns,
a setting greater than that desired has actually been employed. There-
fore, neglected maintenance of the regulator system results in an
unintentionally higher gas setting, resulting in malfunctions such as
stubbing, which could lead to possible catastrophic injuries similar.
to the Ft. Polk incident. A visual reference of these malfunctions 1S
available on the composite film taken during the test and evaluation
period conducted at the Keith L. Ware Test Range.
Another contributor to weapon malfunctioning was the extractor,
because of fabrication and inspection oversight. Note the sharp exte-
rior edges of the claw in Figure 15; this is not to specifications.

20
N
.-.

Typical Failure to Eject at a regulator needle setting of 5/6 turns open

using practice ammunition T249E2 in weapon 31343 on AOO Mount,
N
N

FIGURE Il
Typical Failure to Eject at a regulator needle setting of 2/3 turns open
(4/6) using practice ammunition T249E2 in weapon 0 on AOD Mount.
w
'"

FIGURE 12
Typical Stub at a regulator needle setting of two turns open (12/6) using
practice amnun1tion T249E2 in weapon 31343. For a pictorial view of
extractor marks on cases at this setting, see Figure 40.
 FIGURE 13

d from weapon 29815 fired

Stubbed spotter-Tr~cehr r~~~u1ator need1e setting of
the M79 Mount wlt a
~~o turns open (12/6).
. . of a spotter-Tracer
of the og we sHe
For a comparison. roun d , See Figure 24.
round to a Practlce

24
 ... ,-
,v ." ,
R
T ,23 ,-
I
C .22 ,-
A
L ,21 ,-
D .20 ,-
I
S • '9 ,-
•
L .18 ,
A
C .17 ,
E
• .1' ,
E
N ,IS ,-
T

." ,-
,13 ,
.12 ,
N .11 • ,-
<.n
.10 ,-
.09 ,-
.08 ,
1-1/2
.07 + -Xl
1-1/12
I
.0' -----------_._---- -----,
I
.OS I
.,. ,- I
• I
.03 I
.02 • , I
I I
.01 • , I
• • •• • o • •• •• LJ._ •• l.
---.--~---.------.---.--.------.------.------.------.- ----- .
.O~ .0, .06 .01 .08 .O'J .10 .11 • l? olJ .14 _15 .16 .17 ItA .19 .70

EUlJIVALPH OtAIo\ETE'P

MAX '" STAR "'I 'j • It

FIGURE 14
=-- =--- The maximum and minimum dimensional condition of a 26-degree regulator
needle. The 1-1/12 to 1-1/2 turns open represents the efficient
operation interval.
 TABU V

Tabulation of Turns Open to acquire functioning on 16 Training Weapons

at Ft. Polk submitted by LTC P. Stalker, Ft. Polk, LA

NUMBER APPEARING ON BUSHING REGULATOR

NUMERICAL NUMERICAL * PORTION OF TURN
WEAPON (FULLY CLOSED) (WEAPON OPERATIVE) TO ACQUIRE FUNCTION
1 1 5 4/6
2 1 4 3/6
3 1 5 4/6
4 3 6 3/6
5 3 4 1/6
6 5 6 5/6
7 2 2 6/6
8 2 4 2/6
9 3 1 4/6
10 5 3 4/6
11 1 4 3/6
12 6 3 3/6
13 6 4 4/6
14 3 5 2/6
15 2 1 5/6
16 3 1 4/6

* These settings definitely indicate that true bottoming was not

achieved. Positively indicated on weapons-!) and 14. (Weapon
cannot function satisfactorily, repeatedly, at ~ of the
acquired turns indicated.)

26
 ~
'"
3'
""
U.
,
t~"
'

....
t.n ...
...,
0
w U.
0::
:oJ .......,""
,....
<!>
:<
LL. w
...
0-

.c
V)
""
~.

27
The product drawing specifies an .031 + .010R as shown in Figure 16.
The absence of this specified radius during bolt closing, causes the
extractor to climb rims of cases more than its actuating plunger
permits and very rapidly causes the sort of wear shown in Figure 17.
This wear results in poor retention of an extracted case during the
recoil stroke of the bolt and leads to an erratic ejection pattern.
In most instances this erratic ejection induces the user to·re-adjust
his gas regulator screw for snappier ejection which leads to over-
powering and potential stubbing. A properly fabricated extractor is
shown in Figure 18.
In reviewing the product drawings of the magazine housing, it was
discovered that these drawings could be, and had been interpreted in
a manner other than intended. This resulted in a magazine housinq
being produced that was excessively loose when assembled to its cor-
responding mounting recess in the receiver, as depicted in Figure 19.
This condition permits severe oscillation of the magazine and housing
during firing. Oscillation creates forces on the rising stack of car-
tridges in the magazine which leads to either improper round pick-up
or complete loss of control of the top round and at times results in
a malfunction.
The final major contributor to malfunctions is, again, drawing
interpretation. The product drawings specify the keys on the side of
the slides to have a radius as depicted in Figure 20. An alternate
method of fabrication is also specified in the product drawings permit-
ting square keys with no radii applied, as shown in Figure 21. During
our testing those slides not having the specified radii on the keys re-
quired gas regulator settings greater than 2 full turns open to attain
proper weapon function. This is because the force applied by the gas
piston above the centerline of the keys results in a rotational, or
lifting force to the slide. This action then causes the sharp corners
of the keys to dig in and shave the ways in the receiver in recoil.
The same action occurs in counter-recoil by virtue of the eccentric
force of the two drive springs. These actions result in inherently
nigh frictional forces which require substantially more energy from
the gas system to function weapon, in comparison to those slides having
keys with appropriate radii applied.
The 20-round magazine (Figure 22), presently used by the Army and
other services, was designed at the request of the US Marine Corps for
their use on the "ONTOS", that is the M50 Rifle, Self-Propelled, Full
Tracked, Multiple 106MM. It replaced the 10-round magazine shown in
Figure 23. Note additional length, mass, and obvious center of grav-
ity shift between the two magazines. This oscillating, outboard mass
results in severe impacting action of the magazine within the housing
during firing, causing accelerated wear to both the housing and the
magazine. More serious is the configuration of the springs within
these magazines. The curved spring for the 10-round magazine applies

28
 III
<:
a
....,
'"u
.....
.~

u
OJ
a.
Vl
Ol
<:
.~

o'"
S-

s-
OJ
a.
'"
.-<
u.J
a:
0
.....
a: 0
:::>
<!l
~

u.. +
.....
(V)
0

.s::::
....,
.~

3
Ol
<:
.~

3
'"
s-
o
S-
o
....,
u
0 '"s-
....,
0 x
u.J
•
+
a:
-
rt>
0
•

29
 FIGURE 17

This Extractor illustrates severe sear on plunger

camming surface from sharp claws which force the
extractor to attempt greater vertical rise in bolt
than plunger permits. (Rear view of Extractor.)

30
w
......
W
N

FIGURE 19

Magazine housing looseness after assembly with its

corresponding mount recess in the receiver
 C
t1l
~
V>

'"
0
-0'
lV

l
-0
C
lV,
E
E
0
0
u
lV
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UJ
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4

.
lV
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~
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•
I

I
V>
<:;
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~

-g
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33
 "0
(1)
"0
C
cv
~
0
u
(1)
a:
...,
'">,0
(1) Z
"" ~
.... (1)C
"00
...,
.,.... or-
'" ~

VI
W
a: ...... '"u
~

:J 0 s.-
....
'"
..a
LL
<II
CV LL '"
'"
"0 .....
W 0
0.00
s.- O
",.c
.c: ...,
VI (1)
::;:
...,
(1)

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(1)

~
c(

34
D

FIGURE 22
20-Round Magazine

35
 -

~
/:

rz L]
,(
-\
1
-,

.....
~ {

~
~ ,
\
"
.J
\]
L .....

C
-.,

c --,
~
\ "7

~
t
::::-
'-
~

FIGURE 23

lO-Round Magazine

36
the appropriate loads the entire length of the cartridge; whereas the
straight spring, when assembled into the 20-round magazine, causes the
front of the coils to compress moreso than the rear of the coils. This
unbalanced loading causes the cartridge nose to contact the front lips
of the magazine first, and at times with sufficient force to cause the
front lips to lose control of the ammunition. This can misdirect the
ready-to-be-fed round in a direction other than the chamber. In view
of the magazine differences, and because the "ONTOS" System which cre-
ated the requirement for the 20-round magazine was phase coded "N"
(obsolete) in September 1970, action has been taken to withdraw all
20-round magazines and revert back to fabrication and distribution of
the 10-round magazine. Other bases for this action are: (1) Training
personnel load only 10 rounds in their magazines. (2) The US Marine
Corps now directs and loads only three rounds in their systems. (3)
Reduced fabrication cost. (4) Less weight.
Another area of concern which could contribute significantly to
weapon malfunction is the non-uniformity of the projectile nose con-
figuration. The practice or weapon testing ammunition has a somewhat
spherical nose as compared to the Spot1ite or combat ammunition which
has a blunt or flat nose (Figure 24). The Spotlite cartridge will
feed properly, but has a higher probability of malfunction when loose
magazine housings are used in the weapon. In Figure 25 note the dif-
ferences in the projected nose diameters in relation to the start of
feed ramp. This condition can be existent when a loose housing is
coupled with a poor performing magazine spring. The use of practice
(dummy) ammunition to perform system function and accuracy testing,
instills a false impression of live (Spot1ite) ammunition capability
to the weapon. Because of in-house safety regulations which prohibit
the firing of Spotlite (live) ammunition, weapon/live ammunition com-
patibility can only be proven by firing live ammunition in the field
or the adoption of a practice projectile having like configuration/
characteristics.
A statistical analysis (Appendix A) for comparison of the means of
the velocity of practice and spotter-tracer ammunition on each weapon
and mount (assuming that they are distributed normally with a common
variance) has been performed. Using the Student's t distribution with
a significance level of .05 on each combination, a determination has
been made that the means are equal which implies that there is no sig-
nificant difference between ammunitions as related to chamber pressure
and muzzle velocity.
In summary a tabulation of eminent deficiencies, the resulting
consequences, and remedies for the alleviation of malfunctions is
enumerated in Table VI. Now cognizant of those ailments which con-
tribute to the malfunctions, Ft. Polk personnel have the facilities
to incorporate corrective measures upon direction and authorization.

37
 -0
<:
'"
~

'"
...
LLI
Ol

'"I-
~

III
U
.~

.....
u <:

~
'"... ......
0
~

.~

CI> <:
.c ~
.....E
E
.... ct:
0
~

... 0>'"
uct:
<:CO
...
'"
LLI ~
",

... ::E
~
IX
'"> ...
-
::>
<!J
OJ
~u

..... I-'"...
U.
~

0>
~ ...I

.....U ....
~ OJ
.....0
CI>
or") ~

...
oV>
~

....
0
<:
0
'"...
~

~'"
6
u

3B
w
'" --~

FIGURE 25

Differences in projected nose diameters in relation to start of feed ramp.

(The solid line represents the Practice round whereas the dotted line
represents the Spotter-Tracer round.)
 TABLE VI

DEFICIENCY CONSEQUENCE REMEDY

1. Improper regulator Malfunctions in the (a) Establish set-

needle adjustment weapon when under or tings between 1-1/6
overpowered to 1-1/2 turns open
(b) Redesign needle
(Figure 44)
2. Poor cleaning of Regulator needle can- Improved maintenance
carbon build-up in not be fully bottomed using a 5/16 - 20
regulator bushing causing overpowering tap or Cal . . 30
of the weapon when cleaning brush
needle is opened for (Figure 26)
firing
3. Sharp edges on Dragging of slide in Incorporate radii of
sl ide keys receiver ways during .06 inches (min) on
(Figure 21) recoil thus requiring the drawing and pre-
excessive power to sent weapons can be
obtain weapon function modified as in
Figure 31
4. Looseness of Loss of or poor ammu- Gages (Figures 32
housing versus nition control in thru 36) designed to
receiver magazine resulting in reshape lip on hous-
(Figure 27) malfunction during ing for present weap-
feed cycle ons and drawing
changes for future
weapons
5. Extractor Claw Severe wear to extrac- Improve inspection
radii tor camming surface of manufactured
resulting in erraticl parts and a gage
uncontrolled ejection (Figures 37 thru ~9)
has been designed to
inspect present
extractors
6. Barrel bore erosion Deterioration in Tabulate rounds
(Figures 28 & 29) accuracy and indica- fired, creation of
tions of worn compo- an accuracy test, or
nents resulting in the fabrication of a
erratic weapon barrel erosion gage
function

40
..,.
>-'

Regulator Needle Bushing being cleaned by Cal . . 30 Cleaning Brush

when the more desirable 5/16 - 20 tap is not ?vailable.
 FIGURE 27
.063 inch gap between Receiver and Housing of Weapon 31343.
Typical of looseness acquired by fabrication
(drawing interpretation).

42
43
 -0
" .....l!>
o·~
~

"'~
"U
l!>'"
Eo-
"'
.~

-0

"'~"
l--'=
0'"
.t:J.~

30
'"
~

"'
..c. ..... (I)

..,'" >,l- -0
o.U<O
'"Uu ""'>,
l-
o
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l-

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-'=
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~
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l-
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",~
u"l-
~ 0-"
'"
O-uu
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t-~'"

44
 • •
• '''-,

~
rn

FIGURE 30

Staking abuse to Receiver Allen Screws on Weapon 31343

-""
en
...,+>

FIGURE 32
Gage for determining whether housing lip requires modification.
 0>
<=
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Vl

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48
 -J

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49
so
 .............. i......o

........rw ""'<Ii
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~~~
_...... __ .- ~._-.
.,..,.- ,
' ...,
. ....
••

0'1
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.......... ,

'
•
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- -
~
....... ... '.- ......
•
!olf,
,
• ' .
.......
•

• •
... •
• "

Testing of Housing lip using Gage .in Figure •

••
the Bending Gage in Figure 34 • •
,
 <::
o
....,
.~

<0
U

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o
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52
 ---,~ --_-........---'.. ~ ..- ... , ·~",:":,::,::""""",,.c". _.......', ........~...........c. .~ . . .
...~ ~~.... '
,
.... .., ............
.................... ,........ ~.,... ~
....... .......
........
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S....... I
.'.......
••••--.----' ~ ....... ·,,·...,.··-...---~.. g'i-.icl ..................----".... - -... ~ ... -- . . ~~ •. -.-~- ...............
~----....--- - 6 . ..,.".......... t~ .....,11 ............
.~
_ ........... * •••• 4••' ......,........................
~-'*~_
•.. ··,······...••
1 I.:a• ............"
.. ...• .....,·.........,..·,·...
............................
..,
. _- . .............
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... ........-
......w.<1ri•
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~ -'t:~:~==:;:;:5: ...'··.. ··~
..N··...,.....
::~~;;:::i:m~~::t:2iill=::m:::::;::;;;f!,'5i~;:.r:la

~,.

01 : : ... , . . . ~ .-eGg=- 222£ ~~_·"'---~.""'.n ~~-l...."""':::"';;;~ - ".........·,.'tW...-,UMl·.

LV
..... );
... -
••
•

FIGURE 38

Testing Extractor Claws using the Gage in Figure 37 before modification.

 <=
0
...,
.~

"'u
.~

4-
.~

-a
0
E
S-
...,OJ
4-
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r-..
(Y)

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54
lJ"1
lJ"1
 CONCLUSlONS

The deficiencies contributing to malfunctions of the .50 Caliber

M8C Spotting Rifle have been isolated and are minor in themselves,
but accumulative are synergistic in nature. Remedial actions, impera-
tive to circumvent potential malfunctions, if not taken could result
in catastrophic damage to the weapon or more importantly, fatal injury
to the user.
Findings which have the severest effect and contribute the most to
increase or cause malfunction are listed in order of priority:
1. Maintenance of Regulator Bushing (Cleaning, Figure 26)
2. Sharp Edges on Slide Keys (Figure 21)
3. Looseness,of Housing versus Receiver (Figure 27)
4. Extractor Claw (Figures 15 thru 18)
5. Regulator Needle (Mechanical and Human)
6. Magazine
7. Ammunition
8. Barrel (Bore Erosion, Figures 28 and 29)
9. Allen Screw Staking (Figure 30)
10. Weapon Wear
a. Firing Pin Retractor Slot
b. Magazine Catch Surfaces
c. Operating Rod Guide
d. Kinked Drive Springs
11. 20 Rounds may be loaded into the magazine; however, when
interfacing magazine with weapon, only 19 fit properly.

56
 RECOMM[NDAJIONS
Since numerous MaC Spotting Rifles are presently in the field, the
relationship of malfunctions to the-deficiencies enumerated poses an
extremely serious condition which must be alleviated to prevent any
reoccurance of the Ft. Polk incidents.
Corrective actions currently taken to circumvent future contingen-
cies are listed in Appendix D. An enumeration of-all recommendations
to alleviate the present malfunction rate is as follows:
MANDATORY CHANGES
1. Provide a cleaning tool or directions as to maintenance of
the regulator bushing.
2. Incorporate on slide drawings a radius at each end of the keys
.060R minimum (Figure 41) and have said modification provided on the
existing fabrication and in the field.
3. Change housing drawings so that front lip is specified as being
equal to minimum receiver cut (Figure 42) and a simple inspection gage
be provided so that housings in the field may be-reformed to newer
dimension.
4. Fabricate extractors to drawing (especially the claw with a
radius of .031R + .010). (Figure 43)
5. Fabricate proposed regulator and exchange with user on a one-
for-one basis (Figure 44).
6. Replace the 20-round magazine with original 10-round magazines.
7. Ammunition configuration change (Figure 24).
OT_H ER~D E51 RAB L! _CHANGES
1. Provide guidance to user as to when barrel is unusable.
2. Provide user authority to de-burr.
3. Direct more frequent inspection of allen screws to assure
tightness.
4. Rewrite Technical Manuals.
5. Lubricate all reciprocating parts with MIL-L-46000A.
6. Creation of a maintenance team to inspect and modify existing
MaC Spotting Rifles.

57
 R 8 PLACES

~
~
( I I ~O

ORIGINAL CONFIGURATION

I I I 10

ALTERNATE METHOD

FIGURE 41

The drawing incorporates two alternative configurations of slide keys

production, original configuration and alternate method. The original
configuration specifies radii on the keys, whereas the alternate
method permits sharp corners.

58
 ---l
I o o 0 @ 1c )rrr~ .195 MAX
o
o o o
11l
<0

FIGURE 42

The .195 maximum dimension contains no provisions for a

minimum condition allowing looseness to develop between
housing and receiver.
L.- .031 R + .010

FIGURE 43

Extractors found in the field lacked the .03lR + .010

dimension which resulted in severe damage to extractor
during ejection.

60
 APPENDIX A

ANALYSIS OF THE VELOCITY

61
 ANALYSIS OF THE VEL-OCITY

Under the assumption that the random variables X (practice ammuni-

tion) and Y (spotter-tracer ammunition) are stochastically independent
and normally distributed with means 6 1 and 6 2 respectively and common
variance 62' the hypothesis Ho: 61 = 6 2 , unspecified, and 6 3 unspeci-
fied is to be tested against all alternatives.
If the hypothesis Ho: 6 1 = 6 2 is true and through utilization of
the likelihood ratio test, we obtain the random variable

T =
( ~~) 1/2
( X - Y)

n m 1/2
E {Xi - X)2 + E (Y - y)2
i
1 1
n + m- 2

where nand m are the number of random variables of X and Y respec-

tively, and Xand Yare sample means. The test of Ho against all
alternatives may then be based on a t distribution with n + m - 2
degrees of freedom. Thus, the significanc€ level of the test becomes

a = Pr (ITI ~ c ; Ho)

where c is determined from a t table.

62
 INDIVLDUAL STUDENT'S I TEST

KEY n = Number of Practice rounds sampled

m = Number of Spotter-Tracer rounds sampled
mean = Mean Velocity in feet per second
std dev = Standard Deviation of the velocity in feet per second
t = Experimental value·of the random variable T

Practice Spotter-Tracer
Weapon # 0
ADD Mount n = 74 m = 28
mean = 1748.1 mean = 1800.9
std dev = 11.45 std dev = 8.25
t = 1.1691
Pr (It I ~ 1.984 ; Ho) = .05
Since 1.1691 < 1.984, we accept the hypothesis
that the mean velocities of the two ammunitions
are equivalent.
M79 Mount n = 57 m= 25
mean = 1804.4 mean = 1804.1
std dev = 7.35 std dev = 8.94
t = .1483
Pr (It I ~ 1.99 ; Ho) = .05
Since .1483 < 1.99, we accept the hypothesis that
the mean velocities of the two ammunitions are
equivalent.
Jeep n = 36 m = 16
mean = 1795.7 mean = 1799.1
std dev = 12.08 std dev = 9.0
t = -.9712
Pr (I t I ~ 2.009 ; Ho) = .05
Since -.9712 < 2.009, we accept the hypothesis
that the mean velocities of the two ammunitions
are equivalent.

63
 Practice Spotter-Tracer
Weapon # 31343
ADD Mount n = 31
mean = 1746.2
std dev = 15.07

Weapon # 29815
M79 Mount n = 34 m= 8
mean = 1776.7 mean = 1776.1
std dev = 10.25 std dev = 6.32
t = .1423
Pr (It I > 2.021 ; Ho) = .05
Since .1423 < 2.021, we accept the hypothesis
that the mean velocities of the two ammunitions
are equivalent.
Jeep n = 35 m= 7
mean = 1779.1 mean = 1773.3
std dev = 11.87 std dev = 4.58
t = 1. 2367
Pr (It I ~ 2.042 ; Ho) = .05
Since 1.2367 < 2.042, we accept the hypothesis
that the mean velocities of the two ammunitions
are equivalent.

For a synopsis of the weapon, mount, ammunition, mean velocity, and

distance of measure~ent. see Table VII.

64
 TABLE VII
TABULATION OF WEAPON, MOUNT,
AMMUNIUON, AND MEAN VELO.CITY

MEAN *DISTANCE OF
VELOCITY MEASUREMENT
WEAPON MOUNT AMMUNITION (FP5) (FEET)

0 AOD Pra 1798.2 15

0 AOD 5-T 1800.9 15
0 M79 Pra 1804.4 15
0 M79 S-T 1804.1 15
0 Jeep Pra 1795.7 15
0 Jeep S-T 1799.1 15
31343 AOD Pra 1746.2 15
29815 M79 Pra 1776.7 15
29815 M79 S-T 1776.1 15
29815 Jeep Pra 1779.1 15
29815 Jeep 5-T 1773.3 15
From Manual 5-T 1850 78

* From Muzzle

KEY Pra = Practice Ammunition (T249E2)

5-T = Spotter-Tracer Ammunition (M48A2)

65
 APPENDIX B

EQUIPMENT IMPROVEMENT REPORT J41751

66
 MAINTENANCE REQUEST R£1'O/(TS CONTROL SYMBOL
for ..s. of Ihis fo tM 3&·750. Ih. IHOPO,..,..I og c., CSGl..D-J047 (RI)
;. Ollie. of I~. O.lluly Chi.f 01 SloH 10. Login;,,".

5EcnON I
ARMCOM o WOA~ REouEST OIllWO
#A226-4 b. LOCAT,ON co CNIT IDE'" CODro:
CONTROL NUMIIUI '''' OIiGANIZATlON.

J41751 Pi rectorate of Industrial Opn Fort Polk, Louisiana 71459 WOVF40A

Maintenance Division
2. $ILRIAL NUMIli!:R 3, NeUM NOMENC::l.ATURIL .s. LINE NUMBER :5. MODEL 6. NATIONAL STOCIC NUMBER

NA Rifle R/R M40A2 1015-133-8484

7. IoIAJNTENANCi!: ...CTIVITY 8. UTILIZATION COO[- 9. SELECTED ITEM 10.Houas ,I.MILE$
1l..RNA~;oI13·~rARTS
Field [Qffi moy~S c::I!l NO NA NA
, •• FAILURE DETECTEO OURING (Stthc,o,,~.... ~ ~ or X) '5. FIRST INDICATION OF TROuBLE (Sdec' 0_ - ...~ r' or XI

CI!J~~ [ETI!ST c:IIlSTOR"G£ DIDl'UGHT ~INO"IUI... nVI! ~OVCIlHEATI!>lG C!22IDOUT OF "OJUSTME.N"T

mlH"NDLING "IX!!] S~::A~~ON CI!]INSI'ECnON c::IEI0THEIt D:§§ID ,.OISY ~ loON PERFORMANC£ c!c:J OTHER
10. D£Sc.RIBE DEFlOILNC1LS OR SYMPTOMS 0"1 THE IIASIS OF COMPL!:TE CMECICOUT A"IO DIAGNOSTIC PAOCEOURE IN EqUIPMENT TMfOo no' prn~rib~ "palls/

SEcnON II. WOaK ACCOMPUSHED

17c. ftEPAlA ORGANIZATION/ACTIVITY C.UHIT ID£H COOl!: 18. TYPE ORnANlZATIoN/ACTlVITY AceoM- 19. AI.:S ACT. COCE.
PUSHING WORK (Sd~Cl O""IU~ r' or XI

&.0 1.0CAT10N CIIl TOE c::m'D

~ CONTRACTOR
h.. L). . k.
I~:to,. FAII.URE 1:0 CO ..PONENT/PART NOUN. SE.RV1CE, Ol'lIlWO NO. II.
.~ ..... QUANTITY
~"-'-=c=.OC"O=O='=-""R='='=~='=N=C='=O="'='G=NC'='=O=R::r.{.,. C.O,=,,:-:c=o=o=E=-'(;i=~~~
NATIONAl,. STOCK NUMBER PARTS
~:b~ CODE· ~~:i COST

:::::::::: l m. TOTAL MANHoURS n.TOTAI. PARTS

ig~mm TOTAl. ......ANHOURS COST COST

c:I:!J F ....CILlTIES ~FUNOS ~TOOl.S ZZbDAT,\ TR»SCillBED TO LOG !!OOK

:i3.SU8J,UTTED BY ~4. R£C"-lVED BY 2~. WORK STARTED BY 26. INSPECTED 8Y 27. ACCEPTEO BY 29.;)ISPOSJTION(Seff=1 aru:·14U" o~ XI

ARMCOM [J£]SALVAGEO
JUUAN DATI!: JULIAN OAT£ JULIAN DATE JULIAN DATE JULIAN DATE
crnTO USER C!£lEVACUATiO
3310 c:::I[I TO STOO<
~ANNI5"'LIZA·
~TIO:'l

SECTION III - EQUIPMENT IMPROVEMENT RECOMMENDATION

29,NORWAlo RE.- 3o.EIR(Sd~.1
PLACEW £NT I:n II 0,. X)
0_· 31.RECOM/llENDATJON(S./n1 0"...... yor XI 32"- ORGANIZATION/ACTIVITY C. UNIT lDE.~ CODE

f::"~CIII~:IUO' I::lllUl.E.l'lGI:NCY Maintenance Division. 010 WOVF4DA

[I!JYE.S crnURGENT !XmIMPItOVE DE.SIGND£]~~~'~:DURE. b. I.CCAnCN rJ.. SVBMI" ED BY

O]JNO i%i1DAOUTINI! CJ]]MODIFY cr:IDOTHERfSpftOi[v) Fort Polk. Louisiana !W.H. Funderburk

33. NATIO:-tAlo STOCK NUMII£JI 34. NOUN NOMENCI.AT:JRE. 3~.OPINIO;ll OR P.£MARKS. OJ;;SCRIBE CONDITIONS UNDEIl WHICH FAILURE
1005- 511- 9042 Spotti n9 Ri fl e M8C °ACuUto~°ci;T1"863~4°8li OR SKETCHES, IF ..-VA1L..-BLE.

On 26 September and 28 September 1973 a malfunction was experienced on two M8C .50 Cal Spotting
Rifles. In each malfunction the individual standinQ on the rioht side (loader Dosition) of the
weapon was injured by parts of the ruptured cartridge case. Investioations of these malfunctions
and test firing of other M8C's has shown that when the M8C Rifle fails to feed properly, a
potential hazard exists. The round will stubb against the magazine. barrel and/or the inside
J"'" 64
DA 'ORM
, ocn3 2407 mrr,ON OF 1 WILl. BE USED UNTIL EXHAUSTED.
CON'TlOlCOl'Y 3

67
 2",0. 1".. 0.
MAINTENANCE REQUEST - CONTINUATION SHEET

CONTROl. NUMaER
(T.\l 311-7:>0) I - SH rr'UN~ offlh

:t.l!:;:r.w: 1Ui
PAGE 0 ; P"G ESI REPORTS CO.\"7ROL SYjlSOL
CSCLD·l047 (Nt)

J41751 ARMCOM OWORI( REQUUT OMWO l!:l EJil

#A226-4
'0.
'C· ' ... IL.UIIIE_
0
COM.,ONE'H/PART NOUN, SERVICE. OR ""WO NO.
g. Q
, • J. Q
..... RTS
"'''''''HOUIlS- "EDE"'''''!.. STOCK .. U .... BER QUANTITY
flON CODE g
C8 CODe: Ir, IlEFr:RENCIl OESIGNATORI!· ""'R. COOt HOLlnl>,."tI..J 'U'';? COST
CODE

cor er of r ceiver. Wen this happens the bolt c n stri~e primer of the cartric ~e, cause artridge
to xplode nside the receiver. Of course when t is occ~r the cartridge case upt res.
I I
Our ·ng the nvestigatiQns of the two ma)functions and te~t firing following the mal unctio s,
nurn rous th ngs were found that could contribute e stoppa e and/or malfunction~. ¢orrect ve
act ·on has een taken 9r is being taken, to correc all k~o n deficiencies. How~ver the f ct
rem ins tha when a roynd fails to properly feed, regardless what caused the prqblel , impr p~r
cle ning, W rn parts, ~efective ammunit~on, impro er adjustments, etc., a poten~ial hazard !exists
and the pro ability of;someone getting hurt is ve v rea 1. These weapons are befng ~sed ; n a
tra 'ning mi sion and are fired two days a week. he num~e' of rounds fired dail y v ries. ut the
max mum nurn er would be approximately 3~O rounds. At the resent time Training COIll and ha
imp emented a change t\> procedures whereby a sing e rounp s loaded in the maga ine This pro-
ced re has lowed trai~ing down and is pnly being ,used a~ short time preventi e m asure. With
the type of use these ~eapons are undergoing, it s felt ..t at stoppages and mal pnctions a e
goi g to cO,tinue to o~cur. . ,

, ,
Rec mmend t at the incorporation of a spfety feat re be ~o sidered so that in tee ent a ound
fai 5 to fe d properly, at 1east personpeI injury could pe avoided.
,
, ..
Thi is not a new probjem. This has happened rep 'atedly. i the past 1ife of th we pon. ut due
to ,njuries to operating personnel on these two i cidents enewed concern has b en oenerat d by
usi 9 units

,
,

,
,

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, ,
,
I

I
.,
I

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DA 1 JAN" ",407-1 NMI' co,..,

68
 APPENDIX C

TEST FIRING RECORDS

69
 TIME LOCATION JOB NO.
IDATE
SMALL ARMS TEST DATA RECORD 15-18 Jan 74 81 dg 25
JOB TITLE T(' F) RH(%) P(lnHIIJ
M8C SPOTTING RIFLE MALFUNCTION INVESTIGATION
WEAPON AMMUNITION FIXTURE
TYPE M8C SER Nu. 0 TYPE See Key ILOT NO. TYPE ADD INO. F-2768115-1
ROUNDS TURNS TO OR
FIRED TOTAL COMMENTS
LOADED OPEN SCENE NO. AMMO MALF
19 I 1 0/6 1 Pra FJ 2nd round dummy to preclude stubbing damage.
19 1 2 1/6 2 Pra FJ 2nd round dummy to preclude stubbing damage.
19 1 3 2/6 3 Pra FJ Same as above.
19 1 4 3/6 4 Pra FJ Same as above.
19 1 5 4/6 5 Pra FJ Same as above.
19 1 6 5/6 6 Pra FJ Same as above._.
19 1 7 6/6 7 Pra FJ Same as above.
19 1 8 7/6 8 Pra FJ Same as above. Jam on ejected case, dummy being fed
into chamber, ejected case hit charging handle,
'-J Photo #1.
a
19 3 11 8/6 9 Pra FJ Attempt 5 round singles, case number 3 jammed and
partial feed, weak ejection, Photo #2.
19 4 15 9/6 10 Pra FJ 3 cases ejected weakly, 4th jammed, ejection marks
on case verv light, Photo #3.
19 5 20 10/6 11 Pra OK 6th round dummy, ejected cases struck reflector on
3rd, 4th, and 5th rounds.
19 5 25 10/6 12 S-T FJ 6th round dummy, ejector marks very light, Photo #4.
19 6 31 11/6 13 S-T FJ Round number 6 started to chamber and was struck by
ejected case, Photo #5.
19 8 39 12/6 14 S-T FJ
19 10 49 12/6 15 Pra OK
1 1 50 12/6 - S-T OK Disposal of round from Ft. Polk.
TEST CONDUCTEO BY:
Frederick P. Reed and Richard L. Jayne
AMSWE Form 454, 20 OCT 69 PAGE OF
, PAGES
 TIME LOCATION JOB NO.
IDATE
SMALL ARMS TEST DATA RECORD 15-18 Jan 74 8ldg 25
J0 8 TITLE l(>-F) RH(%) P(lnHg)
1
'M8C SPOTTING RIFLE MALFUNCTION INVESTIGATION
\ WEAPON AMMUNITION FIXTURE
TYPE M8C SER, NO, TYPE ILOT NO, TYPE AOO INO, F-2768115-1
0 See Key
ROUNDS TURNS TO UK
LOADED FIRED TOTAL OPEN SCENE NO. AMMO MALF COMMENTS

1 1 51 12/6 - S-T OK Disposal of round from Ft. Polk.

1 1 52 12/6 - S-T OK Disposal of round from Ft. Polk.
19 5 57 8/6 16 Pra OK Slide keys modified giving the sharp edges a radius,
no lubricant, compare this curve with-TO #9, Photo
#7 shows slide keys modified, all rounds ejected good.
19 5 62 4/6 17 Pra OK Weapon lubricated for first time, extractor modified,
Photo #10.
f -'
" 19 1 63 3/6 18 Pra FJ TO curve shows that slide almost attained buffer.
19 2 65 4/6 19 Pra FJ Photo #11
19 5 70 5/6 20 Pra OK Slide hit buffer on each shot.
19 5 75 6/6 21 Pra OK Slide hit buffer on each shot.
19 5 80 6/6 22 S-T OK Slide hit buffer on each shot.
1 1 81 6/6 23 S-T OK Loaded in chamber, empty magazine inserted into
weapon, slide hit buffer.
1 1 82 6/6 24 Pra OK Same as for TO #23.
19 5 87 7/6 25 Pra OK Slide hit buffer on each shot.
1 1 88 7/6 - Pra OK Ejection marks on the cases have become obvious.
19 18 107 8/6 - Pra Stub Failure to sear 17th shot, 2 rapid firings then 19th
round stubbed, base of the 19th case still in
magazine lips, Photo #12, #13, and #14.
1 1 108 8/6 - Pra OK Previous 19th round which was stubbed fired for
disposal reasons.
TEST CONDUCTED BY:
Frederick P. Reed and Richard L. Jayne
AMSWE Form 454, 20 OCT 69 PAGE OF PAGES
 TIME LOCATION JOB NO.
rATE
SMALL ARMS TEST. DATA RECORD 15-18 Jan 74 8ldg 25
JOB TITLE T(~F) RII(") P(lnHg)

M8C SPOTTING RIFLE MALFUNCTION INVESTIGATION

WEAPON AMMUNITION FIXTURE
TYPE M8C SEll NO. TYPE See Key ILOTNO. TYPE INO. F-2768115-1
0 AOO
ROUNDS TURNS TO OR
FIRED TOTAL OPEN SCENE NO. AMMO MALF COMMENTS
LOADED
5 5 113 8/6 26 Pra OK TO taken of above setting to record slide velocity.
19 1 114 8/6 27 Pra OK Single shot with 19 rounds in magazine to duplicate
maximum weight.
5 5 119 8/6 5-0 Pra OK Attempt to fire 5 rounds with high speed films (2000
frames/sec), fired manually as fast as possible.
6 6 125 9/6 5-2 Pra OK
19 12 137 9/6 28 Pra OK 12 rounds fired for TO, 7 rounds left in magazine for
---J
next high speed film, base of cases deformed by
'" extractor force.
7 7 144 10/6 5-3 Pra OK Rapid firing.
7 7 151 11/6 S-4 Pra OK Raoid firing.
7 7 158 12/6 5-5 Pra OK Rapid Firing. Extractor and ejector mark pronounced.
7 7 165 12/6 S-6 SoT OK Rapid Firing.
19 19 184 12/6 29 Pra OK Extractor marks prominent.

-
TEST CONDUCTED BY: Frederick P. Reed and Richard L. Jayne
AMSWE Farm 454, 20 OCT 69 PAGE -,. OF PAGES
 DATE TIME LOCATION JOB NO.

SMALL ARMS TEST DATA RECORD 21-22 Jan 74 Bldg 25

JOB TITLE T('F) RH{%) P(lnHg)

MBC SPOTTING RIFLE MALFUNCTION INVESTIGATION

WEAPON AMMUNITION FIXTURE
TYPE M8C SER NO. 31343 TYPE ILOT NU. TYPE AOO NO • F-2768115-1
See Key I
ROUNDS TURNS
LOADED FIRED TOTAL OPEN S~~N~KNO. AMMO MALF COMMENTS

19 1 185 2/6 30 Pra FJ

19 1 1B6 3/6 31 Pra FJ Compare this TO with TO #18, no timing marks.
19 1 187 4/6 32 Pra FJ Compare this TO with TO #19, no timing marks.
19 5 192 5/6 33 Pra OK Compare this TO with TO #20, no timing marks,
extractor marks very light.
19 2 194 5/6 S-A Pra FJ Photo #21
17 2 196 5/6 S-B Pra FJ Photo #22
--J
W 15 B 204 5/6 SoC Pra OK Extractor marks light.
7 7 211 5/6 S-O Pra . OK
19 5 216 5/6 S-E Pra OK
19 5 221 5/6 S-F Pra OK Started using magazine from Ft. Polk.
14 10 231 5/6 S-G Pra OK Light extractor marks.
4 4 235 5/6 S-H Pra OK Light extractor marks.
19 7 242 6/6 S-I Pra OK Light extractor marks.
12 5 247 6/6 S-J Pra OK Light extractor marks.
7 7 254 6/6 S-K Pra OK Light extractor marks.
19 7 261 6/6 S-L Pra OK Light extractor marks.
12 6 267 6/6 S-M Pra OK
6 6 273 6/6 SoN Pra OK
1 1 274 6/6 - Pra OK Firing for effect and weapon functioning only.
19. 19 293 6/6 S-O Pra OK Used #1 magazine from Ft. Polk (worn).
19 19 312 6/6 Sop Pra OK Used #2 magazine from Ft. Polk (new).
TEST CONDUCTED BY: Frederick P. Reed and Richard L. Jayne
AMSWE Farm 454, 20 OCT 69 PAGE 1 OF ~ PAGES
 TIME LOCATION J08 NO.

SMALL ARMS TEST DATA RECORD I~ATE

21-22 Jan 74 Bldg 25
JOB TITLE T(· F) RH(%) 1'(lnHg)

M8C SPOTTING RIFLE MALFUNCTION INVESTIGATION

WEAPON AMMUNITION FIXTURE
TYPE M8C SER NO, 31343 TYPE See Key ILOT NO, TYPE AOO NO , F-2768115-1
I
ROUNDS TURNS TO OR
I.OADED FIRED TOTAl. OPEN SCENE NO. AMMO MALF COMMENTS

19 19 331 6/6 34 Pra OK Used #2 magazine from Ft. Polk (new), compare with
TO #21.
19 19 350 7/6 35 Pra OK Used #2 magazine, compare to TO #25.
19 19 369 8/6 36 Pra OK Used #2 magazine, compare to TO #26.
19 2 371 12/6 S-Q Pra FF Used #1 magazine.
17 1 372 12/6 S-R Pra Stub Used #1 ma9azine, Photo #26, #27, and #29·
19 2 374 12/6 37 Pra Stub TO to be compared to TO #29, Photo #30 and #31.
19 4 378 12/6 38 Pra Stub Photo #32, Photo #33 shot of bullet impact area.
1 1 379 12/6 - Pra OK Firing for disposal of stub.
--J 1 1 380 12/6 - Pra OK Firing for disposal of stub.
+-
1 1 381 12/6 - Pra OK Firing for disposal of stub. Photo #34 of test
fixture.

TEST CONDUCTED BY: Frederick P. Reed and Richard L. Jayne

AMSWE Form 454, 20 OCT 69 PAGE OF PAGES
 TIME LOCATION JOll NO.
rATE
SMALL ARMS TEST DATA RECORD 25-28 Jan 74 Bldg 25
J08 TITLE l(<-F) Rtl(") P(lnHg)

M8C SPOTTING RIFLE MALFUNCTION INVESTIGATION

WEAPON AMMUNITION FIXTURE
TYPE M8C SEH NO. 29815 TYPE See Key ILOT NO. TYPE M79 INO. 133
ROUNDS }URNS TO OR
LOADED FIRED TOTAL OPEN SCENE NO. AMMO MALF COMMENTS
19 1 582 2/6 50 Pra FJ
19 1 583 4/6 51 Pra FJ
19 2 585 5/6 -- Pra FJ
1---
19 10 595 5/6 52 Pra FJ
19 19 614 6/6 53 Pra OK
19 19 633 9/6 54 Pra OK Good Ejection
19 9 642 9/6 S-6A Pra OK Erratic Firing
19 19 661 12/6 S-7A S-T OK
19 16 677 12/6 S-8A S- T. Stub Photo #43, All Ejections Rapid
--J 10 10 687 9/6 55 Pra OK This TO is to be compared to TO #57 which had the
'" rubber pads removed.
10 10 697 12/6 56 Pra OK Ejection is too severe
10 3 700 9/6 57 Pra OK Weapon on cement moved rearward each shot for a total
movement of right leg 7/8 inches, left leg 1/2 inch,
and the entire mount moved to the left 1/2 inch.
Photo #45 shows set-up of firing for TD #57 on the
1------
cement.

TEST CONDUCTED BY: Frederick P. Reed and Richard L. Jayne

AMSWE Form 454, 20 OCT 69 PAGE OF PAGES
 DATE TIME LOCATION JOB NO.

SMALL ARMS TEST DATA RECORD 28 Jan 74 8ldg 25

JOB TITLE T(·F) RH(%) P(lnHg}

M8C SPOTTING RIFLE MALFUNCTION INVESTIGATION

WEAPON AMMUNITION FIXTURE
TYPE M8C SER NO. TYPE !LOT NO. TYPE Jeep INO. 2320-076-3l09XX
29815 See Key
ROUNDS TURNS
LOADED FIRED TOTAL OPEN stMRNO. AMMO MALF COMMENTS

1 1 701 9/6 -- Pra OK Firing for effect and weapon functioning only.
1 1 702 9/6 -- Pra OK Firing for effect and weapon functioning only.
19 2 704 4/6 58 Pt'a FJ
19 10 714 5/6 59 Pra OK Slide did not hit buffer once.
19 12 726 5/6 S-9A Pra FJ Photo #46, Round #13 was completely chambered.
19 19 745 6/6 S-10A Pra OK Fired first 7 rounds, started film on 8th round,
ejection good, no extractor marks.
:::.J 19 19 764 6/6 60 Pra OK Took TO's of first 5 and last 5 rounds.
19 19 783 9/6 61 Pra OK Extractor marks are prominent.
19 19 802 9/6 S-llA Pra OK Started film on 10th round.
19 19 821 12/6 S-12A Pra OK Started film on 6th round, severe ejection.
19 9 830 12/6 62 Pra OK Fired 3 rounds, removed 10 rounds, then fired last 6.
5 5 835 12/6 63 S-T OK
10 4 839 12/6 S-13A S-T 8roke firing pin, Photo #47 and #48.

TEST CONDUCTED BY: Frederick P. Reed and Richard L. Jayne

AMSWE Farm 454, 20 OCT 69 PAGE OF -1 PAGES
 DATE TIME LOCATION JOB NO.

SMALL ARMS TEST DATA RECORD 29-30 Jan 74 Bldg 25

JOB TITLE T(~F) RH(%) P(lnHg)

M8C SPOTTING RIFLE MALFUNCTION INVESTIGATION

WEAPON AMMUNITION FIXTURE
'YPE M8C SER NU, 0 TYPE See Key \LOT NO, TYPE Jeep IND. 2320-076-3109XX
ROUNDS TURNS TO OR
LOADED FII1ED TOTAL OPFN SCENE NO. AMMO MALF COMMENTS
19 19 858 5/6 S-14A Pra OK Used extractor assembly and one guide rod from weapon
29815, used Polk magazine.
10 10 868 8/6 S-15A Pra OK
10 10 878 - S-16A Pra OK Modified needle which was equivalent to 8/6 open,
Photo #49. excellent ejection, no extractor marks.
19 19 897 12/6 S-16A Pra OK Standard needle replaced.
10 10 907 12/6 S-18A SoT OK
10 10 917 12/6 64 SoT OK
10 10 927 12/6 65 Pra OK Compare to TO #64.
..., 10 10 937 8/6 66 Pra OK
00
19 19 956 - 67 Pra OK Using modified needle.
1 1 957 5/6 -- SoT OK Disposal of previous stub.
10 10 967 5/6 -- Pra OK
5 5 972 - -- SoT OK Using modified needle.
18 18 990 - -- SoT OK Using modified needle.
19 19 1009 - -- S-T OK Using modified needle.
1 1 1010 - -- SoT OK Using modified needle.

TEST CONDUCTED BY; Frederick P. Reed and Richard L. Jayne

AMSWE Form 454, 20 OCT 69 PAGE OF PAGES
 APPENDIX D

CORRECTIVE ACTIONS TAKEN

79
 CORRECTJVE ACTlON.S TAKEN

Gas Regulator. A feasibility study will be conducted relative

to possibly changing the design of the gas regulator needle. Such a
design change could incorporate a three-position adjustment for desert,
arctic, and normal climates and when moving the needle from one posi-
tion to another, a definite click could exist similar to the adjustment
knob on a windage sight. A preliminary design (see Figure 44) for a
new regulator needle incorporates a tip region of two cylindrical por-
tions of different diameters separated by a tapered section. In the
closed position the larger cylindrical section will protrude into the
gas port hole allowing an equivalent gas flow to that of the present
needle at 1-1/12 turns open, whereas the smaller cylindrical section
allows an equivalent gas flow of 1-1/2 turns open. After the beginning
of the taper has been reached, this section will permit regulation of
the gas flow for one complete turn of the needle, at which point the
smaller cylindrical section will commence. In Table VIII the expected
velocity of the slide at the point of ejection has been tabulated in
respect to turns open of·the regulator needle, and consequently the
proposed regulator needle will allow a 10.8 to 13.7 feet per second
slide velocity. When incorporated into the Spotting Rifle, this pro-
posed needle will eliminate any possibility of overpowering or under-
powering the weapon, which appears to be the d~~inant factor in the
malfunctions.
Lubricant. Of significant importance is the lubricant now being
utilized in this weapon during testing, that is MIL-L-3150B which is
similar in texture to that of kerosene and contributes little in reduc-
ing friction. During all testing the widely used weapon lubricant
MIL-L-46000A was substituted for MIL-L-3150B.
Extractor. Rock Island Arsenal Production and Inspection has been
informed of these product deficiencies relative to the extractor and
is/will perform actions to rectify same.
Magazine Housing. Product drawings of the magazine housing are
being revised to reflect required changes.
Slides. Product drawings of the slide are being revised to reflect
required changes.
Magazine. The 20-round magazine is to be replaced by the 10-round
magazine on a one-for-one basis.
Ammunition. Initial contact has been made with Frankford Arsenal
regarding the projectile configurations of both the T249E2 and the
M48A2 bullets. Further meetings are planned to discuss the technical
aspect of these bullets and the impact of changing the T249E2 nose
configuration to that of the M48A2.

80
 <800

FIGURE 44
Slide of Proposed Needle
Comparison of proposed regulator needle (solid line) and present
needle (dashed line).

81
 TABLE VIII

TURNS OPEN RANGE OF VELOCITY * EXPECTED VELOCITY *

1-1/12 10 to 13 ft/sec 10.8 ft/sec

1-1/2 12.5 to 16.7 ft/sec 13.7 ft/sec

2 14 to 20 ft/sec 16 ft/sec

* Velocity of slide at start of ejection

82
 Maintenance. A maintenance team from the Anniston Army Depot has
been trained by the investigation -team in all aspects of weapon func~
tion, maintenance, modification, and inspection. They are now capable
of assignments to any area/installation requiring their services on
the .50 Caliber M8C Systems. A step-by-step procedure to modify
existing weapons is as follows:
1. Disassemble each weapon, exercising extreme care that no com-
ponents become mixed with another weapon.
2. Record Serial Number
,
3. Degrease bolt, slide, and its assemblies.
4. With positive marking implement (silver pencil), assign a
numerical digit to the receiver, slide, and bolt assembly.
5. Slide
a. Break the sharp corners at each extreme end of the 4 keys
(8 places) with a minimum radius of .060 inches (Figure 41).
b. Break the inside corners of these same keys, approximately
at a 45° angle to a chamfer equalling .030 to .090 inches.
6. Extractor
a. Remove extractor from bolt, using extreme caution not to
lose plunger or spring which is under compressive load while assembled.
b. Place extractor in small vise and remove the sharp points
on claw by grinding to a radius sufficiently enough so that the end
product claw passes under gage fitting (Figures 37 thru 39).
c. Touch up modified claw with gun-bluing, apply a coating
of lubricant.
d. Assemble spring into bolt, then plunger, again using
extreme caution not to lose same when they are compressed to insert
extractor.
e. After 6d is ~omplete, put roll pin in, then gymnasticate
extractor up and down to guarantee proper function.
7. Housing
a. Using housing gage, check housing lip to estimate amount
of bending required (Figures 32 and 33).
b. Using bending fixture, and with housing at 90° to normal
assembled position, place lip of housing uniformly against back jaw
of vise and bending fixture base against moveable jaw (Figures 34
thru 36).

83
 c. Apply sufficient bend to lip of housing by closing vise
jaws, so that the lip of housing contacts provided stop £houlder on
bending gage (Figure 35).
d. Remove housing and gage from vise and inspect for fit
using acceptance gage (Figure 36).
e. If more bending is required, repeat steps 7b and c above
until proper fit is obtained.
f. If too much bend is obtained, place housing on bench,
upside down, and carefully file under-point of lip and constantly
check with acceptance gage until fit is acceptable.
g. If required, use bluing on worked on surface and then
coat with light oil.
h. Finally, test worked housing in a weapon for proper fit
and test with the assembly of a magazine to guarantee no distortion
to housing and tight fit on receiver.
i. Engrave or etch an "X" on housing front, under lip, in
center spot weld.
8. Gas System
a. After unlocking wing nut on gas regulator screw, gently
attempt to screw regulator down (clockwise), if regulator bottoms on
wing nut, gas system is O.K.
b. If regulator screw does not bottom (within .010 inches)
remove regulator screw, wing nut and bushing. Without wing nut on
regulator screw attempt to screw regulator screw thru bushing until
threads on needle expose themselves at bottom of bushing (Figure 45).
c. If needle cannot pass freely thru bushing, remove needle
and pass a 5/16 - 20 tap thru bushing.
d. Again attempt to pass regulator thru bushing to guarantee
function (now all carbon or interference is removed).
e. Reassemble to gas system and bottom regulator (fully
closed) and secure by wing nut.

NOTE: DO NOT ATTEMPT -

--- TO TAP
- BUSHING WHILE BUSHING -
IS IN
-THE
- GAS
-
CYLI NDER BODY.

84
 FIGURE 45
Regulator needle without wing nut, completely bottomed in the bushing
exposing its threads. This condition indicates a clean bushing and
needle.

85
 9. Assembly
Lubricate all reciprocating parts with MIL-L-46000A and assemble
as usual; gymnasticate all moving parts to guarantee function.
Other.
1. Technical Manuals will be updated and distributed reflecting
all required changes.
2. A letter has been forwarded to major commands requesting the
entrance of depot teams having letters of instruction, drawings, gages,
and fixtures to train Direct Support/General Support (DS/GS) personnel
ARMCOM Field Maintenance Technicians (FMT's). The FMT's will then
also be furnished the appropriate gages and fixtures and will train
their local personnel at their duty station.
International Logistics - A letter with summary of the findings
of this investigation together with instructions and drawings of gages
and fixtures will be forwarded.
The US Marine Corps - A letter with summary of the findings of
this investigation together with fixtures will be forwarded and a depot
team will be available to train personnel if required.
National Guard and Reserve - National Guard and Reserve person-
nel will be trained to perform the modifications and maintenance by the
FMT's. Gages and fixtures will be provided by ARMCOM.
National Inventory Control Point - A letter has been forwarded
requesting that the depot assets be inspected and those extractors,
housings, and slides not meeting drawing specifications be so modified
and returned to the supply system.

86
 DISTRIBUTION

Defense Documentation Center (12) President (1)

ATTN: TIPDR US Army Maintenance Board
Cameron Station Ft. Knox, KY 40121
Alexandria, VA 22134
Commander (1)
Commander (1) US Army Infantry School
US Army ~ateriel Command Ft. Benning, GA 31905
ATTN: AMSRD-JW
5001 Eisenhower Avenue Commander (1)
Alexandria, VA 22333 Aberdeen Proving Ground
ATTN: STEAP-MT-I
Commander (10) Aberdeen, MD 21005
Director of Training &Plans
Training Command Commander
USAITC and Ft. Polk US Army Armament Command
Leesville, LA 71459 ATTN: AMSAR-MA (1)
AMSAR-ASF (1)
Commander (1) Rock Island, IL 61201
US Army Test & Eval Command
ATTN: AMSTE-BC Commander
Aberdeen, MD 21005 Rock Island Arsenal
ATTN: SARRI-P (1)
Commander (1) SARRI-LPL (2)
Frankford Arsenal SARRI -LR (1)
ATTN: SARFA-MDS SARRI-LE (1)
Philadelphia, PA 19137 SARRI-LE-T (1)
SARRI-LS (1)
Commander (1) SARRI-LS-A (2)
Anniston Army Depot SARRI-LS-P (15)
Anniston, AL 36201 Rock Island, IL 61201

87
 EVALUATION OF THE .50 CALIBER M8C SPOTTING RIFLE
MALFUNCTIONS EXPERIENCED BY FORT POLK

REPORT COMMITTEE CONCURRENCE:

~fI~~.
LNNIED: ANTWILER

c:52rr.dV
RONALD ELSE
E.
c. ~

APPROVED BY:

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