M2/M3HB .50BMG Recommendations?

[Strykervet]

Okay, I think "semi auto rifles" is where this should be since the weapons in question are considered semi auto rifles. Sort of, IMO.

I'm interested in getting a .50BMG belt fed. Just for shits and giggles, just for fun, so assholes fire away, I don't care. I have a DTA HTI for serious shooting but I've always wanted an M2/M3 so that's the simple justification for it.

Those interested in helping, that help would be greatly appreciated. I notice most available systems today are M3 receivers built using M2HB barrels and spade grips. True M2HB's are rare and costly. Then there's the GAU-16/A that uses the M3 receiver and a thin stellite lined barrel along with a KAC flash hider. It's lighter weight, but won't handle wear and tear like the HB, will it? Is there an advantage to getting a GAU-16/A over an M3HB for ground based use? It's lighter of course for aircraft door gun use, but would a HB be more ideal for ground use/mounted use, last longer, etc.?

So I prefer to have the HB I think, but what are some of your experiences owning and firing different makes? I know TNW and JNC amongst many others makes these, which one is best bang for buck? Best built system?

I'm aware of the difference between the M3 and M2 and truthfully, and I'd rather have an M3 system with an M2HB barrel.

So who makes the best/most reliable one? Quality build and finish? Good shooter? This isn't for re-enactment or vintage authenticity, so the M3 is fine.

Any help would be greatly appreciated, I know some of you own these so give a brother a hand here, save me some grief, headache and money. Thanks in advance!

 

[pmclaine]

There is a full auto ERMCO in the WTS section right now. $30K and you are ready to go.

 

[pmclaine]

Here you go. Ask about accesories when you buy......

http://www.snipershide.com/shooting/firearms-sale/225433-ermco-m2-full-auto-50-ma-deuce.html

 

[Strykervet]

Whoa! Looking for a semi auto, that's why I put it under semi auto rifles. That's what they call 'em. Couldn't afford $30,000 and if I had that to drop I wouldn't spend it on that, I'd probably get better glass and electronics. I'm looking to get something more along the lines of $8000 or thereabouts --that's what these semi M3HB's and GAU-16/A's seem to go for.

I know some folks here own these, so I'd like to get their opinions on them. Pros, cons, regrets, etc.

 

[sea2summit]

I don't own one but I would stick with an M2 if I was buying one. Spare parts are easy to find for them as well as any bells and whistles around that people are trying to sell to the military. Just my $0.02.

 

[Masked]

Last time I knew anything about this there was no such thing as the M3HB -- It was the M2HB and the M3.

I agree with sea2summit, though -- The M2 definitely has the larger following!

 

[ShrikeGen5]

Hit up this web site for lots of information:

M2HB.net

M2HB.NET ? Index page

See what you can find there...

John

 

[Strykervet]

Apparently there are more parts for the M3, at least that's how I understand it. The M3 is just an updated version of the M2 and will use most M2 parts, so that's not a problem. There is no such thing as an M3HB perse, it's really an M3 outfitted with a heavy barrel for a ground infantry conversion done for other militaries.

Seems to be more M3's around than M2's. Also, if ever got to where I couldn't find parts for the M3, I can always use M2 parts but not all M3 parts will work on an M2 (the way I understand it --I've only ever used an M2).

I'd just like to know manufacturers to look at and ones I should stay away from. I know some bodies on here have one of these, I've read others discussing it. Any advice on 'em would be appreciated.

 

[oubeta]

I have a transferable full auto RAMO with under 500 rounds through it with a MK93 mount and a ton of extras I'd be willing to sell for the right price.

 

[Strykervet]

Can't have full autos in WA. Even if we could, the cost of registered full autos is through the roof, so I wouldn't be able to afford it at any fair price --even if I could. Thanks though. Not to say I wouldn't WANT it...

Again for future reference: SEMI ONLY! It's why I listed it in the semi auto rifles section, as that's what it's technically classified as, a belt fed semi auto rifle. In WA, we don't have full auto yet. SBR, Suppressors, DD's and AOW's are all good to go, but no FA.