The Soviet Union's development of 50mm light mortars, specifically the RM-39 and RM-40, focused on simplifying production and improving operational safety. The RM-40 introduced stamped sheet metal for bipod legs and a simplified range scale adjusted by gas venting. Its base plate design was also improved to redirect vented gas away from the crew, enhancing safety during firing.
This video showcases the rare French 50mm mle1937 light mortar, demonstrating its simple drop-fire mechanism. The presenter highlights the manual loading and firing process, where a projectile dropped into the muzzle strikes a firing pin. The demonstration occurs in a workshop setting, featuring the mortar tube and related components.
This video demonstrates the German L.Gr.W. 36 (5cm) light infantry mortar from WWII, showcasing its setup, assembly, and aiming procedures. The demonstration highlights the challenges of using 80-year-old propellant charges, which introduce inconsistencies affecting accuracy despite precise mechanical adjustments. The mortar's design, including its three-point support system and leveling dials, is explained, along with the use of original ammunition and targeting propane tanks.
This video demonstrates the assembly and live-fire of the German 1936 pattern light mortar (L.Gr.W.36). It highlights the mortar's leveling mechanism for accuracy and the difficulty in visually tracking its 50mm projectiles after firing. The content showcases historical military hardware and its operational use.
The German 5cm Le GrW 36 light mortar, designed by Rheinmetall-Borsig, was intended as a portable infantry support weapon but suffered from excessive weight (14kg) and complexity. Its 'closed bolt' firing mechanism, intricate leveling system, and two-piece disassembly for transport highlighted design flaws. By mid-war, its impracticality led to it being replaced and relegated to static defenses.
The French Modele 1937 50mm light mortar, developed from a 1924 concept, offered a portable solution for intermediate firepower. Despite its lightweight design (3.6kg) and innovative folding mechanism, adoption was delayed, with limited production before WWII. Its range is adjustable from 80m to 460m via a unique vent hole collar, and it fires a 0.4kg shell using a lever-actuated firing pin. Post-war, its projectiles were adapted for rifle grenades.
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