HK21

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	Weapon: HK21 Type: General Purpose Machine Gun Country of Origin: Germany Year Adopted: 1961 Caliber: 7.62x51mm NATO Action: Roller Delayed Blow Back Overall Length (mm): 1030.0 Overall Length (in): 40.55 Weight (kg): 9.30 Weight (pounds): 20.5 Effective Range (m): 800 m Effective Range (yards): 874.89

The Heckler & Koch HK21 is a general-purpose machine gun (GPMG) developed in the 1960s based on the G3 battle rifle platform. Utilizing the roller-delayed blowback system, the HK21 is known for its reliability and adaptability. Designed to be a modular firearm, it can be converted to fire multiple calibers, including 7.62x51mm NATO, 5.56x45mm NATO, and 7.62x39mm, by changing barrels, bolts, and feed mechanisms. The weapon is belt-fed, making it more suitable for sustained fire, and features a quick-change barrel system to prevent overheating during extended engagements.

Production of the HK21 began in the late 1960s, with Heckler & Koch manufacturing the weapon primarily for military and law enforcement markets. It has been used by various nations, particularly in South America, Europe, and Africa, where it served as a squad automatic weapon and a mounted machine gun for vehicles and helicopters. The HK21 has seen action in numerous conflicts, including regional insurgencies and counter-terrorism operations, where its high rate of fire and modularity have proven valuable. Licensed production and modifications by other manufacturers have led to variants such as the Portuguese FMP MG21 and the Mexican FX-05 MG.

The HK21 is well-regarded for its accuracy and durability but is often criticized for its weight and complex belt-feeding system, which can be more challenging to reload compared to other GPMGs. Despite this, it remains a respected weapon due to its precision and firepower. The HK21 has gained notoriety for its appearance in movies, video games, and military media, often being portrayed as a powerful machine gun used by elite forces. While newer machine guns have replaced it in many roles, the HK21 continues to see use in specialized units around the world.