FN Herstal unveils Evolys multipurpose machine gun

FN Herstal on 6 May announced the launch of a new machine gun called FN Evolys.

Evolys is an ultra-lightweight weapon that combines the firing capabilities of a belt-fed machine gun with the ergonomics and balance of an assault rifle.

The ambidextrous fire selector has a semi-auto position to engage point targets like a rifle, while the full-auto position allows suppressive fire like a machine gun.

Evolys is available in two calibres, 5.56x51mm NATO and 7.62x52mm NATO. It weighs 5.5kg to 6.2kg depending on the calibre.

FN Herstal claims that the reduced weight enables the user to traverse difficult terrain quickly, engage with a high volume of fire with no difficulty and be fired from any position utilising the sling attachment interface.

A hydraulic buffer provides a steady rate of fire and reduces recoil. The design prevents reduction in performance when fitted with a suppressor, excessive fouling and debris projected towards users.

One of the key innovations in Evolys is a lateral feed mechanism. This allows for all actions can be done with one hand with easy and fast access to all controls by left- or right-handed shooters, automatic repositioning of cartridges and automatic ejection of the last link. 

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