Germany's Not-So-Light 5cm Le GrW 36 Light Mortar

Published on September 2, 2018
Duration: 13:13

This expert analysis delves into the German 5cm Leichte Granatwerfer 36 (Le GrW 36) light mortar, a WWII-era infantry support weapon. The video highlights its design by Rheinmetall-Borsig, its significant weight compared to contemporaries, its unique 'closed bolt' firing mechanism, and complex leveling system. It also covers the evolution of its aiming sights and its eventual obsolescence due to complexity and weight.

Quick Summary

The German 5cm Leichte Granatwerfer 36 (Le GrW 36) was a WWII light infantry mortar weighing 31 lbs (14 kg). It featured a unique 'closed bolt' firing mechanism and required precise leveling for accuracy. Despite firing a heavier shell than some contemporaries, its weight led to its obsolescence in favor of simpler designs.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to the 5cm Le GrW 36
  2. 01:20Weight and Power Comparison
  3. 02:23Firing Mechanism
  4. 04:05Leveling and Setup
  5. 05:58Traverse and Range Adjustments
  6. 07:36Aiming Sights Evolution
  7. 09:28Disassembly and Transport
  8. 10:52Historical Context and Obsolescence

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the German 5cm Le GrW 36 light mortar?

The 5cm Leichte Granatwerfer 36 (Le GrW 36) was the standard light infantry mortar for the German Army at the beginning of World War II. Designed by Rheinmetall-Borsig, it was intended as a portable support weapon for infantry squads.

How did the 5cm Le GrW 36 compare to other light mortars?

The Le GrW 36 was notably heavier than its contemporaries, weighing 31 lbs (14 kg) compared to the French 50mm mortar's 8 lbs. While it fired a heavier shell, its weight made it less portable than desired for a 'light' infantry weapon.

What were the key operational features of the 5cm Le GrW 36?

It featured a unique 'closed bolt' firing mechanism requiring a lever pull, a complex leveling system with an integrated bubble level and adjustment handles for accuracy, and a range dial marked up to 550 meters.

Why was the 5cm Le GrW 36 eventually phased out?

By mid-war, its complexity, significant weight, and the availability of simpler, more portable designs led to the Le GrW 36 being pulled from front-line service. Many were relegated to static defensive positions.

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