What should be done after completing disassembly and assembly of the M240?

After completing the disassembly and assembly of the M240, performing a function check is essential to ensure that the weapon operates correctly and safely. This process involves verifying that all components are reassembled properly and that the machine gun cycles and functions as designed. During a function check, you ensure that the feeding, firing, and ejection processes occur without any issues, which is critical for maintaining operational readiness.

Additionally, a function check helps identify any problems that may have arisen during assembly, such as misaligned parts or improper seating of components. This step is vital because it confirms that the weapon is ready for use and minimizes the likelihood of malfunctions that could be dangerous in a live environment.

While inspecting for rust, cleaning the barrel, and repainting the exterior are important maintenance tasks, they are not the immediate priority after assembly. The primary focus should be on verifying the mechanical functionality of the weapon before addressing the aesthetic or peripheral maintenance tasks.