Designed toward the end of WWI, the M2 Machine Gun or “Ma Deuce” and its .50 BMG cartridge have served in every major U.S. battle since WWII — marking U.S. history as the longest-standing active military weapon. Working against infantry, unarmored or lightly armored vehicles and boats, light fortifications, and low-flying aircraft, the power of this weapon represents the tenacious bravery of the American hero.