Vietnam Mk18 Mod0 Hand-Crank Grenade Launcher

Published on December 20, 2017
Duration: 10:35

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.

Quick Summary

The Mk18 Mod0 was a hand-cranked 40mm grenade launcher used by the US Navy in Vietnam, firing reliable 40x46mm low-pressure rounds. Its split-breech mechanism and Dacron belt system allowed for a practical rate of 100-200 RPM, with an average of 5,000 rounds between stoppages.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to the Mk18 Mod0
  2. 00:45Ammunition and Obsolescence
  3. 01:49Development and Deployment
  4. 03:12Mechanical Operation
  5. 04:54Internal Components and Belt System
  6. 07:57Performance and Reliability
  7. 08:56Sights and Technical Specs

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of ammunition did the Mk18 Mod0 grenade launcher use?

The Mk18 Mod0 utilized 40x46mm low-pressure rounds. This is distinct from the 40x53mm high-pressure rounds commonly found in more modern automatic grenade launchers, making it suitable for its specific role and design.

How reliable was the Mk18 Mod0 grenade launcher?

The Mk18 Mod0 demonstrated high reliability, averaging approximately 5,000 rounds between stoppages. This performance was contingent on the operator maintaining a consistent cranking pace during operation.

What was the primary role of the Mk18 Mod0 during the Vietnam War?

Primarily used by the US Navy on riverine patrol boats, the Mk18 Mod0's short effective range of about 250 yards made it ideal for breaking contact quickly in close-quarters engagements along waterways.

What is the unique mechanical feature of the Mk18 Mod0?

The Mk18 Mod0 features a unique split-breech mechanism. This system uses upper and lower spindles that rotate to chamber and fire rounds from a belt, synchronized by an internal cam and gear system.

More General Videos You Might Like

More from Forgotten Weapons

View all →