However, in it's strength lies its major weakness - if it is not used correctly its accuracy suffers greatly - there is a relatively large amount of kick per round and this, combined with its high fire rate makes it hard to shoot straight while laying down suppressing fire. To make full use of this weapon you should use it as much as possible while prone and preferably with the bipod extended. If used in this manor the M249 goes from a blunt instrument to a suprisingly accurate weapon.

In addition, use of this weapon lights up your position, both with muzzle flashes and tracer singling you out as a target, especially for snipers - at a distance it can be hard to you to hit anything even if you have a target shooting at you so it is likely that a sniper or accurate rifleman will be able to take you out first.

Be aware of your surroundings, keep a close eye out for snipers and the enemy, take as much cover as possible, move as frequently as possible and use this weapon in prone and supported position - follow these rules and your effectiveness will be immeasurably increased.