West Point Cadets Develop Adapter for Legacy Tripods to Support New Machine Guns

Cadets from the U.S. Military Academy at West Point have created a prototype adapter enabling older M192 tripods to mount M240, M249, and M250 series machine guns. This cost-effective solution incorporates modern features and was tested at the U.S. Army Transformation Decision Analysis Center's M-Range in Maryland, with plans for future corrosion testing. The project highlights the collaboration between West Point and Army research centers, enhancing military equipment compatibility and readiness.

Published Mar 24, 2026

A senior capstone team from the U.S. Military Academy at West Point developed a prototype adapter that allows the Army's older M192 tripod to support the M240, M249, and M250 series machine guns. Under the guidance of Maj.

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Matthew Crocker and Capt. Travis Chewning‑Kulick, the cadets designed an adapter from 4140 steel, weighing about one pound, incorporating modern features like the M-LOK mounting system. The evaluation took place at the U.S.

Army Transformation Decision Analysis Center's M-Range in Maryland, measuring force and deformation on the tripod adapter. Future tests will assess corrosion resistance. This project reflects ongoing collaboration between West Point and APG organizations, supporting military modernization.