What does a Depression Stop prevent during range operations?

A Depression Stop is specifically designed to prevent muzzle depression of machine guns during range operations. This device works by restricting the movement of a weapon's barrel so that it cannot be pointed below a certain angle, which is crucial for maintaining safety on the range. When the muzzle is kept elevated, it reduces the risk of unintended discharges into unsafe areas, thus protecting both personnel and equipment around the firing line.

By preventing the muzzle from being depressed too far, a Depression Stop plays a critical role in range safety, ensuring that the line of fire remains controlled and directed towards the intended target area. This is particularly important for machine guns due to their potential for high rates of fire and the associated risks if mishandled.