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









