The Beretta AS70/90 was a light machine gun or squad automatic weapon derived from the Beretta AR70/90 rifle system. It used the same gas operated, rotating bolt system as the rifle but fired from an open bolt and had a much heavier fixed barrel. There were some minor cosmetic changes from the rifle, including a beefier front hand grip and enlarged handguards around the barrel. The stock was modified slightly to support the shooters shoulder and provides a grip for the support hand. The carrying handle was removable and its mounting can be used for a variety of optics.