FN EVOLYS – Fabrique Nationale introduces an ultralight machine gun in 5.56x45 and 7.62x51 calibers

The FN EVOLYS 5.56 in 5.56x45 mm NATO weighs just 5.5 kg
The FN EVOLYS 5.56 in 5.56x45 mm NATO weighs just 5.5 kg when empty and without additional equipment. Shown here with additional bipod. 

As is well known, the established manufacturer with a company history of over 130 years has set standards in the production of machine guns. FN weapon systems such as the MAG or Minimi are in service all over the planet. The brand-new EVOLYS is based on the manufacturer's wealth of experience and its distinctive folding stock is somewhat reminiscent of the FN SCAR assault rifle family in appearance. The new model is said to combine the firepower of a belt-fed MG with the light weight and handling characteristics of an assault rifle, which is a significant advantage in the face of asymmetric conflicts in foreign deployments and modern military tactics. After all, a soldier who can move more dynamically in any terrain thanks to weight-reduced equipment is significantly more efficient. The FN EVOLYS, with a theoretical rate of fire of 750 rounds per minute, is based on a short stroke gas-operated action with a short-stroke piston and multi-lug rotating bolt. The patented cartridge feed system automatically repositions cartridges when the feed cover is closed and the belt is not properly placed on the feed tray. This avoids a failure to feed the first cartridge. The last link of the ammunition belt is automatically ejected to clear the way for fast, reliable reloading.

Noise-suppressed shooting

The FN EVOLYS 7.62 in 7.62x51 mm NATO
The FN EVOLYS 7.62 in 7.62x51 mm NATO weighs just 6.2 kg.

Naturally, suppressor use was considered from the outset in the development of the FN EVOLYS and tested intensively in practice. The MG is consistently designed for ambidextrous operation, and the fire selector has a semi-auto position to enable specific engagement of point targets. The length-adjustable buttstock with height-adjustable cheek rest allows individual adjustment depending on body size, equipment, shooting/aiming position. The monolithic receiver with integral one-piece aluminum hand guard is designed for maximum robustness and ensures repeatable mounting of optics plus additional equipment (magnification modules, night vision/thermal optics). The hydraulic buffer absorbs a lot of recoil, providing the best conditions for controlled single and continuous fire. Of course, the new FN EVOLYS is scheduled to be on display at the DSEI international security trade show in London, UK, September 14-17 this year. 

FN EVOLYS specs

Model:
EVOLYS 5.56 EVOLYS 7.62
Caliber:
5.56x45 mm NATO 
 7.62x51 mm NATO
Operating Principle: 
Gas operated, short stoke piston, with multi-lug rotating bolt
Gas operated, short stoke piston, with multi-lug rotating bolt
Overall Length:
850-950 mm 925-1025 mm
Barrel Length: 
14"/355 mm 
16"/406 mm
Weight:
12.1 lb/5500 grams 
13.6 lb/6200 grams 
Width:
133 mm135 mm
Firing Modes: 
Semi/full auto 
Semi/full auto
Rate of Fire: 
750 rounds per minute  750 rounds per minute  
Feeding:
Free disintegrating belt or Minimi pouch for 100/200 rounds
Free disintegrating belt or Minimi pouch for 100/200 rounds
Maximum Effective Range: 
800 m1000 m

For more information please visit: www.fnherstal.com

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