Browning Model M2, .50 caliber machine gun

	Browning Model M2, .50 caliber machine gun


	First introduced as the M1921, the Browning Model M2, .50 caliber machine gun, or "Ma Deuce" for its M2 designation is a heavy machine gun designed by John Browning and entered service towards the end of World War I. In 1932, the design was updated and redesignated M2, but was often referred to as the "fifty-cal.". Due to its lightweight, it became the standard gun for aircraft armament, allowing up to eight guns to be carried in USAAF fighters, and fitting into single, twin, and quadbarrel turrets on USAAF bombers. With its high rate of fire from 500 to 650 rounds per minute, it was used heavily during World War II, the Korean War and the Vietnam War and is still in use today, with only a few modern improvements. It was also used in both Iraq wars during Desert Storm and Operation Enduring Freedom. Presently, it is the primary heavy machine gun of NATO countries, and is used by other countries as well. The M2 has been in service longer than any other small arm in US inventory and was very similar in design to the smaller Browning Model 1919 .30 caliber machine gun.