The XM556 Microgun is a prototype made by Empty Shell Defense and is still currently in the prototype stages. It weighs 16 pounds and is only 22 inches long.
“The XM556 Microgun was designed and engineered around the 5.56mm NATO cartridge. This defensive suppression weapon is significantly smaller and lighter than it’s big brother the M134. It was meant to stand in place of anywhere high suppressive fire wanted without the weight or footprint of the larger M134 electrically driven Gatling gun system. The current XM556 Microgun is smaller and lighter than some current 5.56mm beltfed Squad Automatic Weapons currently on the market, with 4x’s the firepower.
The XM556 is a new platform system that was designed from scratch by the ground up. The parts are not just a smaller imitation of the larger M134, but were designed on its own. An absolutely all new style of bolt was conceivedand designed to eliminate current known issues with the M134. The bolts combined with many other improvements have been made to not only extend the life of the gun but reduce wear and reduce or eliminate stoppages.
The gun is sold as a complete weapon system. Some mounts and accessories designed for the M134 will work with the XM556 Microgun to make adoption easier.”
Check it out at EmptyShellUS .
XM556 Microgun Specifications
Caliber: 5.56mm
Barrel Length: 10″ or 16″
Total Gun Weight: 16lbs*
Rate of Fire 2000/4000*
Total Length: Handheld 22″
Total Height: 6″
Total Width: 9″
Feed System: M-27 Linked Ammunition Belt
Fire Mode: Full Auto Only
Power Requirement: 24 Volts DC
Barrel Life: TBD
System Life: TBD
Status: Prototype / Still in Development
*subject to change
Featured photo courtesy of Empty Shell