Ares (Stoner) Model 86 Light Machinegun
Information from Janes Infantry Weapons (1995-1996 Edition). Eugene Stoner is remembered by many SEAL's to this today for his Model 63 Series of weapons, the light machinegun was a beloved addition to the Viet Nam era SEAL's arsenal. Not one to rest on his laurels Eugene pitched a new design to Ares in the mid-1980's, titled simply the Model 86. The Model 86 still retains the modular accessories, the weapon is capable of short or long barrels, top feeding (ala Bren Guns) or from belts of ammunition. The components of the weapon are made from a corrosion resistant material. The design makes use of components from the original Stoner 63, the M-16 Assault Rifle as well as the M-60 and M249 machineguns. The weapon is even provided with an ultra short paratrooper barrel and removable stock for use amongst commando groups needing lightweight firepower, doubtless to say it is a quick change barrel. The weapon is capable of being fed from a belt or magazine, it uses a long bolt stroke which helps keep the recoil of the weapon low and as such this weapon is not equipped with any sort of buffer or gas regulator system. The design was intended for military sales but never found it's intended market, only limited production took place. By the beginning of the 1990's the Model 86 was being phased from production to make room for a newer model. Caliber: 5.56x45mm NATO Ammunition: Standard Issue M-16 Magazines & 200 Round Belts Operation Method: Gas with rotating bolt Fire Modes: Full Automatic Barrel Lengths: 550mm (Standard) 400mm (Assault Gun) Weight: 8.51 Kg (200 Rounds w Standard Barrel) 7.02 Kg (200 Rounds w Assault Barrel) Overall Length: 810mm (Standard) 670mm (Assault Gun) Rate of Fire: 600 Rounds Per Minute Muzzle Velocity: 945 Meters Per Second (SS109)
Pictures and information courtesy of: Tim R Walker Wapahani
