What is considered the most effective fire a machine gun can produce?

The most effective fire a machine gun can produce is grazing fire. Grazing fire occurs when the line of sight of the weapon is parallel to the ground and the bullets travel close to the surface, effectively striking targets at close range without significant elevation. This type of fire is highly effective because it minimizes the obstacles that incoming rounds encounter, enhancing the likelihood of hitting targets while reducing the risk of rounds going over or under them.

Grazing fire is often employed in defensive positions where enemies may be advancing at ground level. It allows for a wider area of coverage and can create a lethal zone against dismounted infantry. Moreover, since the projectiles remain closer to the ground, it reduces the effects of casualties from ricochet, making it a safer and more effective option in certain scenarios. This fire technique is particularly advantageous in terrain that doesn’t allow for indirect fire or at short distances where precision and effectiveness are paramount.