"Field Expidient" weapon mounts

[Crusader_22]

Motorcityman had asked about my gun pedestal in another thread, so I decided to create this seperate thread in the appropriate forum to discuss what I think is an interesting subject.

We all know there is a purpose built M4 pedestal mount, but there have obviously been examples of improvised "motor pool" substitutes fielded, and I would like to see if anyone has any stories or photos to share regarding these.

My pedastal is a "field expident" one (home made). It is actually made completely out of military scrap - most parts are from a junk maintenance stand or some such thing. It has a welded base plate and tube attached to bolted sections of tube, terminating on top with a "genuine" receptacle for pintle mount systems.

Interestingly, I was talking with a Vietnam vet who was checking the truck out once, and he commented that that was just how they made them for the MUTTs in country during the war, and he made particular note that the "real ones" are set too far forward, so if you had to spin around to fire the weapon to the rear, you ended up standing on the dash, or worse.

I have several period pics to support the location difference. My brother's A2 has a correct mount, I actually do like mine more as a driver/passenger. His just feels more obtrusive, in the way.

I like stuff as it would be in front line use, a little "rough around the edges", so to speak, so it suits me fine.

Anyone have any other photos, stories, or info?

Jeff

[WC Matt]

After it's installation into my A1, I was surprised at just how much room the M4 takes up.
Matt

[mrdibbles]

After it's installation into my A1, I was surprised at just how much room the M4 takes up.
Matt

I didn't like it myself either. As a recreational vehicle that M4 pedestal seems inches away from your head. I oftened wondered about the location and why it had to be so invasive. I guess the location had to do with maximizing room in the back seat but still... it sure makes for tight quarters.

[rickf]

I know that when I was working on Diamondjim's for the convoy last year I learned real fast that the pedestal WILL put a hurtin, on your elbow when you jump in!

Rick

[poof]

Not sure if you wanted non military "Field Expedient" weapon mounts but here is what I made for $20 each.. plus the cost of the m60 adapter... it will hold for parade an M1919 as is or an M60 with the adapter added..
I used the same method for the Deuce.. where it is pinned it has holes to raise and lower or remove the top half.( pipe inside of pipe).. that leaves the mounted part below the shoulder of the driver... took a #10 caster and removed the wheel.. inverted it and well the pictures are self explanatory.. it swivels and rotates tighten with a jam nut, friction mounted tight as you want to...I didn't get as far as adding any support legs.. but will this winter some time...plan on making them as unobtrusive as possible..for the back seat area..
J.P.

[poof]

close up of the one on the Deuce.. in the white.
J.P.

[raymond]

Poof

What do they call the browning when you put the shoulder stock on it Is it called an A6

[WC Matt]

Poof

What do they call the browning when you put the shoulder stock on it Is it called an A6

M1919 W/shoulder stock (and usually a bipod & carry handle) was known as an "M1919A6" A buddy of mine has one of those.
Matt

[poof]

A6 conversion kit. Comes with a muzzle break, bipod, carry handle, and stock.
it's a cone style flash hider .
yes thats the A6 sholder stock in the picture
J.P.

[raymond]

A6 conversion kit. Comes with a muzzle break, bipod, carry handle, and stock.
it's a cone style flash hider .
yes thats the A6 sholder stock in the picture
J.P.

I thought so. I remember seeing semi auto versions of the A6 in Shotgun News several years ago for what at the time I thought was a high price. In hindsight, the price was ridiculously low Semi auto M60's and M2's were similarly priced. Oh well, hind sight is 20/20.

[Floyd]

Raymond the key word was "several years".

Floyd

[WC Matt]

Not exactly an improvised weapons mount but, when a friend of mine was overseas the support guys in his unit (forget if they were motorpool or armorers) built a BBQ grill using an RPG-7 for the smoke stack and 4 DSHKA barrels for the legs. Forget what they made the body out of. All of the "items" donated were captured from the taliban...

As for the M4, I wanted it (at the time) on my A1 for some roll over protection. Not sure if I'll mount one in my next mutt.

Matt

[David]

Have friends that use standard drill stem welded to some plate steel for a base and then a pedestal socket welded at the top to accept most any mount one could want.