FN America just issued a mandatory recall of FN M249S semi-automatic, belt-fed rifles made and sold before January 1 of this year. These highly collectible military rifles have a flaw in their fire control group and should not be considered safe to load or shoot.
“An identified issue from a component in the FN M249S fire control group may adversely affect the rifle’s standard operation, and under certain circumstances, a reset failure within the hammer group may cause an unsafe firing event,” FN said. “To correct this condition and restore consistent and safe operation of the firearm’s fire control group, it is necessary for FN to replace specific components in all FN M249S rifles.”
While FN isn’t highlighting the exact nature of the failure, any potentially faulty fire control issues can lead to serious problems and should be addressed as quickly as possible.
The problem affects all M249S models, including the Standard, PARA and Limited Edition rifles in black and flat dark earth. It does not affect M249S rifles sold after January 1, 2022. Older M249S rifles that received updated components following the 2017 recall may still be affected and should also be sent in for the 2022 update.
FN will update all affected rifles at no cost. Owners can contact FN America to arrange for a shipping label and any necessary packaging online or over the phone at 1-800-635-1321, extension 145 or by email at [email protected]. Hours of operation are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Eastern time, Monday through Friday.
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“FN is deeply committed to providing customers with the safest, most reliable firearms possible,” the company stated in their notice. “As such, it is imperative that all recalled product is received back as soon as possible. Patience and cooperation is appreciated as we receive, inspect and service these firearms for a direct return to you.”
Owners can double-check to see if their rifles are affected through FN’s recall portal on their website with the serial number of their M249S. FN America expects the turnaround time for the fix to take about 30 days.
If you have an FN M249S do not use it unless you can confirm it’s unaffected by this issue. To contact FN America head over to their website today.
This is the second “mandatory” recall for the same issue. Sorry FN, but I don’t think too many of them are going to find their way back to you.
I take two things from the article and the release.
1) Sounds like the issue is probably – shall we say – a too enthusiastic rate of fire.
2) “Mandatory”? Is it my rifle or theirs?
With BFA’s attached we Marines called them “Bada Bada Jams” in training. With live ammo and during all of my combat tours, they always jammed as well. The entity responsible for allowing these into the hands of our fighting men should be imprisoned.
But then, that may be the case here. They are smaller, lighter, and easier to carry for women…
I need a pric and financing option
If they are “force resetting” then good luck with your recall 🤣