Top 5 Video Game Machine Guns You Can Actually Own

Ever wished your favorite in-game machine gun was sitting in your gun safe? Gamers love the thrill of firing classic LMGs and SMGs in their favorite shooters, but most don’t realize that some of these legendary guns can actually be owned in real life.

While full-auto ownership in the U.S. is tightly regulated, it’s absolutely possible under specific rules. The key? They must have been registered with the ATF before May 19, 1986—these are known as “transferable” machine guns. For everyone else, semi-automatic variants, reproductions, and demilled collectibles offer a legal and attainable way to own a piece of gaming history.

Below I break down common video‑game favorites, what “owning” them actually means. Quick Legal Primer (U.S. Focus) National Firearms Act (NFA): Full-auto machine guns, short-barreled rifles/shotguns, and suppressors are regulated under the NFA. Ownership requires an ATF tax stamp, background check, and full compliance with federal and state laws.

1986 Cutoff (Firearm Owners’ Protection Act): Only full-auto machine guns registered before May 19, 1986, can be transferred to civilians. Anything newer is restricted to military, law enforcement, or FFL/SOT holders. Semi-Auto Clones & Reproductions: These mimic the originals but fire one round per trigger pull. They’re legal in most states and make great range or display pieces. Demilled / Display Guns: Collectors often own legally deactivated examples—perfect for historical displays or props. State Law Reminder: Regulations vary widely. Always verify local rules and work with a licensed NFA dealer such as Midwest Tactical or GunSpot.com for current, authoritative guidance. From Video Game Legends to Real-World Ownership

1. M249 SAW (Squad Automatic Weapon) Modern Warfare 2, Battlefield 3

In games: A squad’s powerhouse—belt-fed, fast, and relentless. In real life: Transferable full-autos are unicorns—rare and six-figure expensive. Most collectors opt for semi-auto M249S models, offering the same iconic look and feel without the red tape.

1. PKM / PK (Russian LMG) Modern Warfare, Insurgency Sandstorm In games: The Eastern Bloc workhorse seen in countless shooters. In real life: True full-autos are pre-86 rarities. Enthusiasts usually go for semi-auto reproductions or demilled display pieces.

2. MG42 / MG34 (WWII German Machine Guns) Hell Let Loose, Battlefield V In games: Famous for their “buzz saw” rate of fire and battlefield dominance. In real life: Transferable examples can exceed $60,000+. Many collectors own demilled MG42s or MG3 semi-auto conversions.

3. Browning M1919 (.30 Caliber Medium MG) Hell Let Loose, Call of Duty WWIII In games: A WWII icon mounted on jeeps and tanks. In real life: Transferable models exist but are uncommon. Reproductions and semi-auto builds are the go-to for most enthusiasts.

4. M60 Battlefield, Arma, Far Cry 6 In games: “The Pig” — the quintessential Vietnam-era GPMG with serious character. In real life: Transferable examples are available (and pricey). Semi-auto conversions and display guns are far more attainable.

5. Thompson (1921, 1928, M1A1 “Tommy Gun”) Call of Duty WAW, Fallout '76, GTA5 In games: The classic gangster and WWII submachine gun. In real life: Transferable Thompsons are some of the more common NFA guns, but they still command premium prices. Semi-auto models and modern reproductions are widely available.

6. MAC-10 / MAC-11 / Uzi Black Ops, State of Decay 2, GTA In games: Compact SMGs perfect for close-quarters chaos. In real life: Transferable MACs and Uzis are popular collector’s items. Semi-auto clones and pistol-style versions are the most practical route for most owners.

7. Modern “LMG-Look” Guns & Fictional Weapons Black Ops 7 In games: From futuristic Negev-style LMGs to made-up blasters. In real life: Semi-auto rifles styled after their in-game counterparts let collectors recreate the aesthetic—legally and affordably.

Pro Tips for Aspiring Owners Don’t assume “game legal = real legal.” Game logic ignores federal law. Transferables are investment-grade. Expect detailed ATF paperwork, fingerprints, and a $200 tax stamp per transfer.

Semi-autos give the look without the hassle. Demilled guns make great displays—but verify proper deactivation. Always check state laws—some states ban or restrict NFA items entirely. Work with trusted dealers who handle Form 4s and guide you through the process.