What issue may arise from firing fewer than six rounds at a time with the M240?

Firing fewer than six rounds at a time with the M240 can lead to excessive wear on the sear and sear notch. The M240 is designed with a specific operational cycle that incorporates a certain number of rounds being fired to maintain the integrity of its mechanical components. When rounds are fired in smaller quantities, the cycling of these components can be disrupted. This disruption can lead to inconsistent engagement and disengagement of parts, increasing the likelihood of wear and potentially compromising the overall performance of the machine gun. Thus, adhering to the recommended firing cadence helps to ensure the longevity and reliability of the weapon's mechanical elements.