I spent a few years teaching the M2 .50 Caliber MG in a tank battalion. Keeping in mind that the M2 does not use magazines, at the end of every training session, we did 'belt' dumps. Ammunition issued is based on the number of expected trainees. Ammunition consumed is based on number of trainees who showed up, the weather, range conditions, and so for forth. Quantity of ammunition issued at the NEXT training session was: Ammo drawn MINUS Ammo turned in. While I was teaching, we NEVER turned in .50 cal ammo. Sometimes my last range day consisted of a lot privates having a lot of fun with a lot of "excess" ammo. On heavy days, we also earned a lot of new M2 barrels. "Once they're red, they're dead." Saved a lot of cleaning time. We did our part to help Uncle Ronnie win WWIII.