M79 grenade launcher
The M79 grenade launcher is a single-shot, shoulder-fired, break-action grenade launcher that fires a 40x46mm grenade which uses what the US Army calls the High-Low Propulsion System to keep recoil forces low, and first appeared during the Vietnam War. Because of its distinctive report, it has earned the nicknames of "Thumper", "Thump-Gun", "Bloop Tube", and "Blooper" among American soldiers; Australian units referred to it as the "Wombat Gun". The M79 can fire a wide variety of 40 mm rounds, including explosive,anti-personnel, smoke, buckshot, flechette, and illumination. While largely replaced by the M203, the M79 has remained in service in many units worldwide in niche roles.
| Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Weight | 2.93 kg (6.45 lb) loaded 2.7 kg (5.95 lb) empty |
| Length | 73.1 cm (28.78 in) |
| Barrel length | 35.7 cm (14 in) |
| Cartridge | 40x46mm grenade |
| Action | Break-action |
| Rate of fire | 6 rounds/min |
| Muzzle velocity | 76 m/s (247 ft/s) |
| Effective range | 350 m (383 yd) |
| Maximum range | 400 m (437 yd) |
| Feed system | breech-loaded |
| Sights | Blade and leaf type |
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