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

Published on September 2, 2018
Duration: 13:13

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.

Quick Summary

The German 5cm Le GrW 36 light mortar, designed by Rheinmetall-Borsig, weighed 14kg (31 lbs) and featured a complex 'closed bolt' firing mechanism and leveling system. Despite its intended role as portable infantry support, its weight and complexity led to obsolescence by mid-war.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to the 5cm Le GrW 36
  2. 01:20Weight and Power Comparison
  3. 02:23Firing Mechanism Explained
  4. 04:05Leveling and Setup System
  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 purpose of the German 5cm Le GrW 36 light mortar?

The 5cm Le GrW 36 was designed as the standard light infantry mortar for the German Army at the start of WWII. Its intended role was to provide portable fire support for infantry squads on the battlefield.

What were the main drawbacks of the 5cm Le GrW 36 mortar?

Key drawbacks included its significant weight (14kg or 31 lbs) for a 'light' mortar, a complex leveling system, and a 'closed bolt' firing mechanism. Its portability was also questionable, requiring two-piece disassembly.

How was the range adjusted on the 5cm Le GrW 36?

The range was determined by the angle of the barrel, which was adjusted using a range dial marked from 0 to 550 meters. This involved both coarse pin adjustments and fine-tuning with hand screws.

Why was the 5cm Le GrW 36 eventually pulled from front-line service?

By mid-war, its complexity and weight made it unpopular compared to simpler Soviet or French designs. It was often replaced and relegated to static defensive positions where its portability issues were less critical.

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