Developed with the idea of heavy support this "light" MG weighs in at 17 kilos, 2 kilos more than it's competitor the GE M134 Vindicator Minigun. And that is without ammo! However, the MG DOES include a couple features that would have seemed obvious to the competitor. For one, and possibly the most important, is an internal Smartlink II. Also included is a Gas Vent Recoil Reduction System IV. What the frag is the use of having a 1000 RPM weapon if you can't hit drek? Also included in the package is a Gyro Stabilization Mount which I will address later.
Previously most minuguns used batteries to power the rotating barrels. Ares has developed a new concept. The MG 104 uses both batteries and the gas pressure generated from firing the weapon. Though this does sound strange it is actually quite simple. The batteries are used to start the barrel rotation. Once the guns has stored enough pressure (3-4 rounds) then the gun operates using gas power alone. This increases your battery life but also makes the system a bitch to repair. The power unit is a DV9 and is good for about 50,000 rounds when fully charged. Don't think you can extend your battery life by just holding down the trigger though cause you will frag up the barrels long before you get to 50K. And don't go looking for any 50,000 rnd drums at your local .40s amd 9mm store either. You'll just embarrass us both.
Well now on to the articulating arm and gyro harness. This weapon is designed to be worn not carried. The system is designed on a precision gymbal that works based on the operators movements. What does that mean to those of us w/o an engineering degree? When you run, the gun stays level and on target. When you shoot, the gun stays level and on target. However, sudden erratic movements can be interpreted by the stabilization unit as recoil. What does this mean? If you turn suddenly the gun may try to correct. Since the gun is fairly massive then this correction could put you on your hoop before you know it. The trick is being smooth and consistent and going through the customization program that comes with the unit.
Other goodies: The weapon features an isolated ammo feed and of course is belt fed. It uses 40mm caseless ammunition carried in a disintegrating belt which theoretically produces no waste. The only problem is that, on occasion, the belt which is made of nylon mesh doesn't completely burn away and can gum up the chamber causing a malfunction. This is of course assuming that you "purchase" the ammo from Ares. The weapon is available in the traditional blued steel or as you see can be purchased chromed. After all, once you whip this fragger out you aren't about to hide. Might as well do it in style...
Well chummers, that is about it for the MG104. I havn't used it in the field yet but if any of you get the chance then let us know what you think by sending us an email. After all, it is the field test that really counts. I'm not going to insult your intelligence by giving this system a rating but I'd have to say it ain't a total piece of drek! But I do recommend working out before you get one. Keep in mind that this gun was originally mounted on an aircraft!! Watch yourself out there...]>>>>>
--The 3rd Jynx |
