What is a characteristic of the M-2 .50 Caliber machine gun?

The M-2 .50 caliber machine gun's primary characteristic is that it is a belt-fed, air-cooled, crew-served weapon. This design allows for sustained fire capability and is particularly effective in various combat situations. Being belt-fed means that ammunition is fed from a belt, which allows for high rates of fire and the ability to sustain fire over longer periods without the need for frequent reloading.

As for air cooling, this feature helps to manage the heat generated by firing the weapon, allowing it to be used effectively without overheating. Being a crew-served weapon indicates that it typically requires more than one person to operate and maintain effective control and firing during operations, enhancing its effectiveness in combat scenarios. This characteristic differentiates it from lighter, handheld weapons that can be operated by a single soldier, leading to a distinct tactical application on the battlefield.