When does the extracting process begin in the M249 AR cycle of operations?

The extracting process in the M249 Automatic Rifle (AR) cycle of operations begins during the unlocking cycle. This phase follows the firing cycle and is critical because it involves the disengagement of the bolt from the chamber after a round has been fired.

During the unlocking cycle, the bolt carrier group moves rearward, which simultaneously allows the spent cartridge case to be extracted from the chamber. The extractor, a small hook-like feature on the bolt, grabs onto the rim of the cartridge case, ensuring it is pulled out efficiently as the bolt moves back. This is essential for the firearm's operational reliability, ensuring that a new round can be fed into the chamber smoothly afterward. The precise order of these cycles is crucial for the successful functioning of the weapon and its overall efficiency in combat situations.