The M79 Thumper, a 40mm break-action grenade launcher, offered significant squad-level firepower post-WWII. Its unique swiveling trigger guard aids use with gloves, and specialized rounds like the 'Hornet's Nest' adapter (firing fifteen .22 LR rounds) demonstrate its versatility. Modified versions were used by special operations in Vietnam, and non-lethal rounds exist for riot control.
The M79 'Thumper' grenade launcher is a break-action, single-shot weapon designed to extend squad reach beyond hand grenade range, effectively covering 50-400 meters with its 40x46mm low-pressure rounds. Its rifled barrel ensures accuracy, and it utilizes a High-Low pressure system for manageable recoil. The M79 features a simple automatic safety and inertial arming projectiles for enhanced operational safety.
Brandon Herrera reviews a collection of bizarre and poorly executed firearm modifications, including a Glock-based AR upper, an MG34-AR hybrid, and a P90-AR bullpup. He critiques impractical designs like a Ukrainian AK with an improperly mounted scope and discusses historical oddities such as the Sedgley MK2 Glove Gun. The video highlights common pitfalls in custom builds and accessory mounting, often with a humorous and critical tone.
This review of the B&T GL06 highlights its versatility as both a less-lethal and full-power 40mm grenade launcher. The expert demonstrates its break-open loading mechanism, similar to the M79, and its ergonomic features like a folding stock reminiscent of H&K platforms. The GL06 is equipped with a full Picatinny rail for optics and rudimentary backup sights, and features a Double Action Only (DAO) trigger.
The M79 'Thumper' is a 40mm break-action grenade launcher famously used in the Vietnam War. It features an automatic tang safety and a unique sight system with express battle sights and flip-up ranged sights. The trigger guard is also foldable for easier handling. This video provides a brief overview and firing demonstration.
This video features a self-made, shoulder-fired grenade launcher that appears to be a replica of the iconic 40mm M79 GL, proudly manufactured in Buluan. The creator explores the possibility of its functionality, posing the question of whether this homemade device will actually work. The content leans towards custom firearm builds and the experimental nature of such creations.
The M79 'Bloop Tube' was a post-WWII development intended to provide infantry with a portable, accurate grenade launcher, replacing the bazooka. Its core innovation was the 40x46mm low-pressure system, adapted from German Rheinmetall High-Low pressure technology, enabling a lightweight design. Despite its success in Vietnam, its single-shot nature led to the development of under-barrel launchers like the M203.
This video from Haley Strategic focuses on their 40mm products, specifically highlighting the '5 Banger Hanger' and a single 40mm pouch. The description humorously references both historical firearms like the M79 'blooper' and modern gaming terminology ('Noob-tuber') to emphasize the versatility and effectiveness of their offerings for dealing with adversaries. Links to their shop, training programs, and social media are provided.
Civilians can legally own 40mm grenade launchers by registering the receiver as a 'destructive device' via ATF Form 1. While High Explosive rounds are restricted, various other 40mm ammunition types like chalk, smoke, less-lethal batons, and gas rounds are available. The video showcases classic platforms like the M79 and M203, alongside modern variants and multi-shot systems, demonstrating their functionality and diverse ammunition capabilities.
The Colt XM-148 was the US military's first under-barrel grenade launcher, developed from the SPIW program for the M16 rifle. Despite its innovative design, it suffered from significant flaws, including a snagging trigger bar, high cocking force, and mechanical complexity. These issues led to its replacement by the simpler and more reliable M203, making the XM-148 a notable but ultimately unsuccessful footnote in firearms history.
The Mk18 Mod0 is a hand-cranked 40mm grenade launcher developed in 1962 and used by the US Navy during the Vietnam War, primarily on patrol boats. Despite being considered obsolete upon introduction, its reliability and simple operation, featuring a split-breech mechanism and a unique Dacron belt, made it a favored weapon for close-range engagements up to 250 yards. It fired low-pressure 40x46mm rounds, offering a practical rate of fire between 100-200 rounds per minute with an impressive average of 5,000 rounds between stoppages.
This episode delves into the diverse firearms of the Vietnam War, highlighting iconic weapons like the M60 'Pig' machine gun and the M79 grenade launcher. It explores specialized and forgotten arms such as the Stoner 63 and Thompson submachine gun, alongside early carbine development with the XM177. The segment also touches upon the effectiveness and drawbacks of combat shotguns in jungle warfare.
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