What differentiates a machine gun's cyclic rate of fire from its practical rate of fire?

The distinction between a machine gun's cyclic rate of fire and its practical rate of fire is fundamentally rooted in the operational environment and limitations of the firearm. The cyclic rate of fire is defined as the maximum number of rounds a weapon can fire in one minute under ideal conditions, without accounting for factors such as overheating or the need for aiming and control. This figure showcases the mechanical capabilities of the weapon itself.

On the other hand, the practical rate of fire takes into account the realities of sustained use, including the potential for barrel overheating and the overall need for the operator to manage the weapon effectively. As the gunner operates the machine gun, they must balance the need for rapid fire with the necessity to cool the barrel and maintain accuracy, which inevitably results in a lower sustained rate of fire compared to the maximum cyclic rate.

This definition underscores that the practical rate of fire is not just a function of the weapon's design but also considers operational efficiency and safety, making the choice that highlights the difference between these two rates accurate and insightful for understanding how machine guns are utilized in real-world scenarios.