Which assembly on the M249 AR is responsible for moving parts rearward?

The cocking handle assembly is responsible for moving parts rearward on the M249 Automatic Rifle. When the cocking handle is pulled back, it serves to retract the bolt assembly, which is essential for chambering a round and preparing the weapon for firing. This action is critical for the cycling of the weapon, as it allows the bolt to move into the rear position, enabling the extraction of a spent cartridge and the loading of a new one.

Understanding the role of the cocking handle assembly is vital for proper weapon operation and maintenance. This assembly facilitates the manual operation of the weapon when needed, such as during clearing procedures or when conducting immediate action drills. The design of the M249 leverages this aspect to ensure reliability in various combat scenarios.

In contrast, the trigger assembly is primarily involved in the firing mechanism rather than the movement of parts. The feed tray assembly's role is to help feed ammunition into the chamber, while the recoil spring assembly absorbs recoil and helps return the bolt to its forward position after firing. Each of these components has a specific function, but it is the cocking handle assembly that directly facilitates the rearward movement of the weapon's internal components.