I wish I could furnish some definitive help, but - - -
It pretty much boils down to what is available at the moment you're ready to commit the money and the necessary effort.
Most - -? Well, a
great MANY individuals without wide experience in full auto ownership and/or shooting, will suggest you get whatever they HAVE shot. Others will urge the one with which they've had the most success on the video games.
You wisely ruled out the M2 Cal .50 and stated you reasons. Frankly, I'll be surprised if there aren't grinnin' suggestions
that you get a GE mini-Gatling or a GAU-8 30mm with an A10 to carry it.
Talk about a high-upkeep item! Not to mention the fact that there are few or ZERO transferable examples out there.
I wouldn't take for my '28 Thompson, for various reasons. It has a traditional aura, a mystique, if you will. It is excellent for display or even re-enactments. With minor variations in accessories and trim, it'll serve in the military area, as a gangster gun, as an old-fashioned police piece, and even as part of Ireland's history. (Without a close look, most can't tell the difference between a -28 and a 1921 "Irish sword.")
It is FUN to shoot, and while ammo prices are steadily rising, .45 ACP is readily available and easy to hand load. While the prices just keep on climbing, there are a lot of transferable examples that can be had by those willing to pay the price. There are tons of reasonably priced magazines and parts, and a wide array of "traditional" accessories available
The fact remains, though, the TSMG is a large, heavy piece and is no way "state of the art" ordnance.
As to other types, the more rare and exotic the gun, the higher the "cool factor," and the oooh and aahs at the range are abundant. Problem is, all the parts and accessories, even magazines, are often scarce and high priced.
For just occasional blasting off a mag or two at a hospitable range, the Uzi and MAC series are still FAIRLY accessible prices, with reasonably priced ammo. Once one gets an M16, it can be altered to different configurations and wildly accessorized.
Again, you must make your own determination of what you want to do with the gun, and how much you can send. I realize this reply is NOT definitive help, but there is almost no "best" machinegun for all purposes. Member
David Hineline's post contains a lot of good information, and could well serve as a short guide on this topic.
Good luck to you.
Johnny
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