NordArm Introduces Their GEN 3 Blank Firing Adapter for M2 Browning

Estonia’s NordArm launched a blank firing adapter for the .50 cal M2 Browning back in 2021, they have now announced the introduction of an improved GEN 3 version of the adapter. The latest iteration of the adapter introduces exchangeable gas nozzles, while this might not sound particularly significant or exciting it’s useful for enabling the blank firing adapter to use all blank ammunition types available on the market – these range from brass or plastic cased and various loadings of gunpowder which can impact the reliable cycling of the M2 when firing blank.

NordArm patented a quick-attach/release system for the adapter which doesn’t require any tools to attach or remove the device. They shared a video demonstrating the system:

Here’s NordArm’s announcement in full:

“Training is essential, no question about it. Conducting tactical training and exercise with real weapons, but with blank ammunition is a training method which has been preferred long time. Due to no backpressure, firing blanks requires a physical blocking device at the end of the barrel to create the back pressure. These devices are called Blank Firing Adapters (shortly BFA) and they have been designed for all types of weapons to conduct training.3 years ago TFB issued an article about NordArm’s Browning M2 HMG Blank Firing Adapter. Since then, NordArm has been engaged in perfecting the product and adding more features to make the product more universal.The BFA now features exchangeable gas nozzles, enabling to use all blank ammunition types available in the market (Brass cased, Plastic cased, different amount of gunpowder, etc.). Few years ago, Estonian Defence Forces, for example, purchased much cheaper plastic cased 0.5” blank ammunition instead of brass cased, saving thus lot of finances. As plastic cased blank contains much less gun powder, it needs much more back pressure to reload the weapon system. Fortunately, with NordArm BFA, it is only required to replace the gas nozzle, not the entire BFA system to cycle correctly with different blanks. Furthermore, NordArm has tested mixed links (brass and plastic case) and system works even with combined ammunition links without malfunctions.Also, NordArm has developed an Adjustable Cartridge Guide, which enables to use blanks with different lengths. Average length of 0.5” blanks in the market are between 98-99mm. Shorter length of the blanks causes too much movement on the links while feeding, resulting in malfunctions, and so does longer length, when getting stuck behind typical fixed lentgh Cartridge Guide. Thus, in case of different blanks are taken in use, there is no need to purchase new Cartridge Guides. Adjustable Cartridge Guide is a standard component in NordArm’s Browning M2 HMG Blank Firing Adapter GEN3 set.The BFA can be installed and removed by one operator in a matter of seconds and due to clever patented design it needs no use of tools. This saves time in training field and no need for any additional tools, which might be lost during haste of exercise.As the BFA attaches only to the Barrel Support, there is no physical contact with any moving part, thus any possible damage to the weapon system is excluded. BFA can be fitted onto different types of Barrel Supports.The BFA is assembled of precision machined components, which are manufactured from special durable steel alloy materials and assembled with bolts. All components are easily replaceable.The BFA is in series manufacturing. Constant stock available for full sets and components.The BFA does not require special barrel, it is designed for regular barrel. Instead of disposing old or worn-out combat barrels, the barrels can be designated as training barrels with the BFA.”