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The FA-MAS Type 62 is a 7.62×51mm NATO rifle developed by the French Army as a replacement for the MAS-49/56.[1][2] It was the last in series of 40 different prototype rifles designed between 1952 and 1962.[3][4] However, the introduction of the 5.56×45mm cartridge caused the French to rethink their approach and the project was eventually cancelled. The Type 62's bayonet was later adopted for use on the FAMAS rifle.
| FA-MAS Type 62 | |
|---|---|
| Type | Battle Rifle |
| Place of origin | France |
| Production history | |
| Designed | 1962 |
| Manufacturer | Manufacture d'armes de Saint-Étienne |
| Specifications | |
| Mass | 4.53 kg |
| Length | 1040 mm |
| Barrel length | 500 mm |
| Cartridge | 7.62×51mm NATO |
| Caliber | 7.62 mm |
| Action | Gas-operated |
| Rate of fire | 600 rpm |
| Effective firing range | 400–800 m |
| Feed system | 20-round detachable box magazine |
| Sights | Iron sights |
Predecessors
editType-55
editThe MAS-55 has its gas piston underneath its barrel and operated in a similar way to the FM1924/29 light machine gun but resulted in a heavy rifle for its type. [5]
Type-56
editThe Type-56 was a simpler alternative to the Type-55 and was closer to the FN FAL.
Type-59
editThe Type-59 came with an improved stock and foregrip. It also came with a folding stock, bipod and infra-red sight as the AP61.