What is a significant factor in determining the effectiveness of machine gun fire?

The effectiveness of machine gun fire is heavily influenced by the quality of alignment and control. This factor encompasses how well the shooter can maintain the proper aiming and stability of the weapon. Effective machine gun fire requires precise alignment to ensure that rounds accurately hit the intended target. If alignment is poor, even a machine gun with excellent rate of fire may fail to achieve the desired effects on the target.

Control pertains to the ability to manage recoil and maintain sustained fire without significantly compromising accuracy. Well-trained operators know how to adjust their grip, stance, and firing technique to optimize control, allowing for better shot placement and increased likelihood of neutralizing a threat. Quality alignment and control enable the shooter to effectively engage moving targets, manage burst fire, and lay down effective suppression, making it a crucial component in maximizing the machine gun's capabilities in combat situations.