When Sig Sauer delivered the SIG MG 338 Machine Gun, along with ammunition and suppressors, to the United States Special Operations, it was a big day. At 600 rounds of .338 Norma Mag per minute, the MG 338 is a beaut. Throw in other features like the folding stock and light weight — less than 20 pounds — and this was a definite winner.
SIG MG 338 Machine Gun Contract Details
“The safety certification of the complete SIG Sauer MG 338 system and delivery of the system to USSOCOM is historically very significant,” said Ron Cohen, then President and CEO, SIG Sauer. “For the first time in decades the U.S. Military certified a new machine gun, ammunition, and suppressor at the same time, bringing new innovation, portability, and increased lethality to our ground forces, with all components coming from one company. This certification was achieved following the outstanding performance of the complete MG 338 system through the rigors of the extensive function, durability, and safety tests set forth by USSOCOM.”
The MG 338 bridged the gap between machine guns that were in use by the U.S. military at the time. Compared to the M240 (7.62x51mm), the MG 338 provided significantly more range and lethality. Compared to the M2 .50 cal., in service for 110 years, the MG 338 was approximately one-quarter the weight. The MG 338 offered a man-portable solution with similar effective-range to the legendary Ma Deuce. Further, SIG’s Next Generation Suppressors drastically reduced the impact of harmful toxic fumes and signature, making the operator less vulnerable.
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Innovative Force Multiplier
The MG 338 machine gun weighed less than 20 pounds. The belt-fed, lightweight medium machine gun design fired the 338 Norma Mag. SIG’s machine gun also featured a short-stoke gas piston system and proprietary recoil mitigation system. It utilized a free-floating, quick-change barrel, ambidextrous controls and a switchable feed tray. Meanwhile, the charging handle alternated to either side, depending on operator preference. The modern, multi-caliber, modular system also easily converted to 7.62×51.
“We are incredibly proud of this historical accomplishment and honored to have received this safety certification by USSOCOM for the performance of the complete MG 338 system,” concluded Cohen.
This post was updated on Jan. 29, 2026.
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