{"product_id":"original-u-s-vietnam-war-era-m60-machine-gun-rubber-duck-type-training-aide-with-sling-and-cartridge","title":"Original U.S. Vietnam War Era M60 Machine Gun “Rubber Duck” Type Training Aide with Sling and Cartridge","description":"\u003cp\u003eOriginal Item: Only One Available. This is a solid, non-firing example of a rubber and foam M60 Machine Gun training, often referred to as a rubber duck. These types of weapons were utilized in training to simulate carrying the actual weapon without the risk of damage to the real weapon system or injury to the individual carrying it. These rubber ducks were often manufactured from already existing decommissioned weapons, however this example was not, with all components being made from rubber and foam.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe M60 machine gun began development in the late 1940s as a program for a new, lighter 7.62 mm machine gun. It was derived from German machine guns of World War II (most notably the FG 42 and to a lesser extent the MG 42), but it contained American innovations as well. Early prototypes, notably the T52 and T161 bore a close resemblance to both the M1941 Johnson machine gun and the FG-42. It was intended to replace the M1918 Browning Automatic Rifle and M1919A6 Browning machine gun in the squad automatic weapon role, and in the medium machine gun role.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe U.S. Army officially adopted the M60 in 1957. It later served in the Vietnam War as a squad automatic weapon with many U.S. units. Every soldier in the rifle squad would carry an additional 200 linked rounds of ammunition for the M60, a spare barrel, or both. The up-gunned M113 armored personnel carrier\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eACAV added two M60 gunners beside the main .50 caliber machine gun, and the Patrol Boat, River had one in addition to two .50 cal mounts.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDuring the Vietnam War, the M60 received the nickname \"The Pig\" due to its size.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis example is in good condition, shows signs of use but is presented without any extensive damage. It retains the original plastic buckle sling and there is a 1973-dated 7.62mm cartridge zip-tied to the side of the gun, likely as part of the training, or just added later. An odd but welcome addition. The gun measures roughly 43½” long. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eComes ready for display.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Original Items","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":42118097272901,"sku":"ONJR24YM098","price":595.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1524\/1342\/files\/ONJR24YM098__02.jpg?v=1737776679","url":"https:\/\/www.ima-usa.com\/products\/original-u-s-vietnam-war-era-m60-machine-gun-rubber-duck-type-training-aide-with-sling-and-cartridge","provider":"International Military Antiques","version":"1.0","type":"link"}