What is the effective range of the M249 SAW for point targets?

The effective range of the M249 Squad Automatic Weapon (SAW) for point targets is 800 meters. This distance reflects the weapon's capability to deliver accurate fire against a single target, enabling soldiers to engage effectively at extended ranges while maintaining a high volume of fire necessary for suppressive roles on the battlefield.

In the context of the M249 SAW, effective range is defined as the distance at which a well-trained shooter can reasonably expect to hit a target with a high degree of accuracy. The 800-meter range accounts for factors like ballistic performance, sighting systems, and the automatic capability of the weapon. Understanding this range is crucial for infantry units when planning engagements and positioning during operations to maximize the impact of their fire support.

While the other ranges listed might pertain to different types of targets or different contexts of weapon use, for point targets, the recognized standard remains at 800 meters, underscoring the weapon's design capability and intended employment in combat scenarios.