Application Note: NATO Testing for Firearm Manufacturer

The customer needed a number of tests run to ensure their firearms would operate in harsh conditions. Specifically in military applications, it is critical that the rifles work reliably even in the most extreme conditions. The tests included:

• Durability testing at temperature: The firearms were placed in an environmental chamber and exposed to both extreme heat and cold. They were then fired inside the chamber to ensure they would still operate in those conditions.
• Mud testing: Weapons were immersed and agitated in mud solutions of various degrees of viscosity, then the guns were fired. If the device fired properly, they would move to a more concentrated mud solution until they reached the most concentrated solution or the gun failed.
• Salt fog testing: This is a standard testing procedure used to identify areas prone to corrosion or rust. This particular customer had very tight tolerances, so even a small amount of rust could jam the mechanisms. After the completion of this test the rifles were fired to confirm that they would still operate properly.
• Sand & dust testing: Our team built a custom test rig for this particular test. The rifle was placed into a box that blew both sand and dust at it. For the static test the sand and dust were blown at the rifle then it was removed and fired. For the dynamic test, the gun was fired while the sand and dust were actively being blown onto the rifle.
• Water spray test: This test simulated heavy rain conditions. The gun had to fire in multiple directions and orientations while the water was sprayed onto it.