The M2 rifling features:

• A. Eight lands and grooves; right-hand twist, one turn in fifteen inches
• B. Six lands and grooves; left-hand twist, one turn in fifteen inches
• C. Eight lands and grooves; left-hand twist, one turn in fifteen inches
• D. Nine lands and grooves; right-hand twist, one turn in fifteen inches

Answer: (A)

Rifling characteristics determine how a bullet is stabilized in flight. The M2 uses a right-hand twist with a 1 turn in 15 inches rate, so the bullet spins clockwise as it travels and completes one full revolution every 15 inches of barrel. Its rifling pattern consists of eight lands and grooves, the raised and recessed helices that impart that spin. This combination—eight lands and grooves, with a right-hand twist of 1:15—matches the established M2 specifications and provides the necessary stabilization for the heavy .50 caliber projectile. A left-hand twist or a different land/groove count would not align with the M2 design, and the 1:15 twist is the standard for this weapon.