Mosquefal
| M968 "Mosquefal" | |
|---|---|
| Type | Service rifle |
| Place of origin | Brazil |
| Service history | |
| In service | 1968-present |
| Used by | Brazil |
| Production history | |
| Designer | Mauser |
| Designed | 1947-1953 |
| Manufacturer | IMBEL |
| Variants | (variant of M954) |
| Specifications | |
| Weight | 3.92kg |
| Length | 1.1m |
|
| |
| Cartridge | 7.62x51mm NATO |
| Action | bolt action |
| Rate of fire | 10-15 rpm |
| Muzzle velocity | 830 m/s (2,700 ft/s) |
| Effective firing range | 500 m (550 yd) with iron sights |
| Feed system | 5-round magazine |
| Sights | Iron |
The Mosquefal M968 (MQ M968) is a variant of the earlier 1908 DWM Brazilian Mauser rifle; set apart by its reduced weight, barrel length, curved bolt, and higher caliber. The M908 was modified for the 7x57mm Mauser cartridge, then popular throughout Latin America. The M968 is chambered for the 7.62x51mm NATO cartridge, to allow compatibility with the FN FAL, the Brazilian service rifle. This model is manufactured in Itajubá, Minas Gerais by IMBEL. The name is an amalgamation of 'FAL' after the prementioned cartridge- compatible rifle and mosquetão the Portuguese for 'musket'. The name makes a clear reference to the bolt-action rifle's compatibility with the ammunition and accessories of the M908 assault rifle.
This weapon is used in various auxiliary units of the Brazilian Army. The M968 was developed from the Mosquetão .30 M954 (caliber .30-06 Springfield), the latter no longer being used by the Brazilian Army). The original model was rechambered and issued with minor external alterations. The MQ M968 has features similar to those of the M964 7.62 (FN FAL), using the same ammunition and grenade-firing attachments.
Ammunition
- 762M1 (ball)
- 762M1 ft (blank),
- 762TR (tracer),
- 762PR (armor-piercing),
- 762E (explosive)
- LçBcAP and LçBcAC (grenade launching).
The use of special ammunition for Snipers, with balanced and heavier projectiles (175 or 180 grains) increases the accuracy of firing at larger distances.
It is a precision weapon, which, beyond the basic training of the Army shooters (Tiros de Guerra) is also used by police forces throughout the country.