How does the M96 work?
The M96 is a gas operated semiautomatic rifle. It utilizes a multi-lugged rotating bolt which is contained in a bolt carrier and driven by a piston connected to an operating rod. The bolt is similar to that of an AR15 or Stoner 63 rifle but is modified for greater strength and durability. A cam slot within the bolt carrier causes the bolt to rotate in and out of engagement with the barrel extension. As a round is fired, some of the expanding gasses used to push a bullet down the barrel are diverted from the barrel into a gas cylinder. A piston and operating rod are inside the gas cylinder. As the gasses hit the face of the piston, the operating rod and bolt carrier are forced to the rear of the firearm against the force of the recoil spring. As the bolt carrier is forced to the rear, a cam slot in the bolt causes the bolt to rotate out of engagement with the lugs of the barrel extension. Now the bolt carrier and bolt may travel freely to rear of the firearm. The empty cartridge case is
