What is one of the key components that must be regularly checked as part of machine gun maintenance?

Regularly checking the barrel of a machine gun is crucial for ensuring optimal performance and safety. The barrel is subjected to extreme heat and pressure during firing, which can lead to wear, deformation, or even damage over time. A deteriorated or damaged barrel can affect accuracy, range, and overall reliability. Inspecting the barrel for signs of erosion, excessive wear, or obstruction is necessary to maintain the weapon’s effectiveness and prevent malfunctions. Proper maintenance of the barrel helps in ensuring consistent bullet trajectory and preserving the mechanical integrity of the machine gun itself.

In addition, while components like the ammo belt, trigger assembly, and stock are important for the proper functioning of the machine gun, the barrel's condition directly impacts performance and safety in a more immediate way.