What is a common consequence of overheating the barrel of an M240?

The common consequence of overheating the barrel of an M240 is the possibility of a cook-off. A cook-off occurs when the heat generated from firing the weapon rapidly increases the temperature of the ammunition in the chamber or feed tray, causing it to ignite without pulling the trigger. This can lead to unexpected and uncontrolled firing of the weapon, posing significant safety risks to the operator and bystanders.

Normally, the M240 is designed to withstand a considerable amount of heat during sustained firing, but excessive heat can compromise the weapon's safety features. Understanding the implications of barrel overheating is critical for safe weapon operation and maintenance practices. While options like increased recoil, improved accuracy, or extended range may imply a change in performance, they do not pose the same immediate danger associated with a cook-off scenario.