Shooting a WWII German 50mm Light Mortar (L.Gr.W.36)

Published on November 9, 2024
Duration: 16:03

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.

Quick Summary

The German L.Gr.W. 36 (5cm) light mortar from WWII is demonstrated, highlighting its three-point stabilization system and aiming controls. Challenges arose from using aged propellant charges, causing firing inconsistencies, and the need to re-level the mortar after each shot due to ground settlement.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction & Setup
  2. 01:04Assembly & Aiming Controls
  3. 02:10Ammunition & Targets
  4. 03:45Aiming & First Shot
  5. 06:10Adjustments & Subsequent Shots
  6. 07:51Propellant Rarity & Consistency
  7. 10:12Final Shots & Conclusion

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the German L.Gr.W. 36 (5cm) light mortar?

The L.Gr.W. 36 is a German light infantry mortar from World War II, designed for close support. It features a 50mm caliber, a trigger-actuated striker, and a range indicator calibrated up to 500 meters.

How is the L.Gr.W. 36 mortar aimed and stabilized?

The mortar is stabilized using a three-point support system with leveling dials. Aiming involves adjusting elevation and windage using fine-tuning knobs, and a bubble level ensures the weapon is properly oriented.

What challenges were encountered when firing the L.Gr.W. 36 mortar?

The primary challenge was the inconsistency of the 80-year-old propellant charges, which affected range accuracy. Additionally, the mortar base plate settles into the ground, requiring re-leveling after every shot.

What type of ammunition was used with the L.Gr.W. 36 mortar?

The demonstration used original 1939-production propellant charges and demilitarized High Explosive (HE) rounds. The propellant charges resembled large shotgun shells.

More General Videos You Might Like

More from Forgotten Weapons

View all →