Beretta developed the GLX-160 series single-shot grenade launcher as a standalone unit or underslung service rifle weapon.
Introduced in 2008, the Beretta GLX-160 was developed in concert with the ARX-160 assault rifle for the Italian Army. It is a 40mm, single-shot system projecting various types of 40x46mm grenade munitions and adds roughly 2.2lbs as an Under Barrel Launcher (UBL) unit to the base ARX-160 assault rifle. Overall length is 14.3 inches with its barrel measuring 11 inches long. The GLX-160 is one of the growing number of UBLs that can serve as a conventional UBL system or as a stand-alone launcher. As a stand-alone launcher, a five-position telescoping stock is affixed for shoulder support with integrated pistol grip for the primary hand. The trigger is of a Double-Action (DA) design and the locking system of a rotating bolt function. Mechanical iron sights are included as a front adjustable (for windage and elevation) and a multi-position rear arrangement with optics also being supported. The system also includes an ambidextrous safety mechanism with a "loaded chamber" indicator. Construction is largely of weight-saving polymer.
In action, the chamber of the GLX-160 is exposed by the operator grasping the two sides of the lower receiver section, making up the barrel, and pushing the assembly forward to expose the empty breech (or access a spent shell casing if the case may be). A fresh projectile is then inserted into the chamber, the section brought back to the receiver until locked closed and the weapon made ready to fire.
Specifications
Weight 3.1 kg (6.8 lb) (empty with 406 mm barrel)
3.0 kg (6.6 lb) (empty with 302 mm barrel)
Length 755 mm (29.72 in) (stock exteneded w. 302 mm barrel)
680 mm (26.77 in) (stock collapsed w. 302 mm barrel)
580 mm (22.83 in) (stock folded w. 302 mm barrel)
920 mm (36.22 in) (stock exteneded w. 406 mm barrel)
820 mm (32.28 in) (stock collapsed w. 406 mm barrel)
755 mm (29.72 in) (stock folded w. 406 mm barrel)
Barrel length 302 mm (11.89 in)
406 mm (15.98 in)
Width 80 mm (with extended stock)
Cartridge 5.56×45mm NATO,5.45×39mm, 6.8mm Remington SPC,7.62×39mm,300 BLK[1]
Action Gas-operated rotating bolt
Rate of fire 700 RPM
Effective firing range 5 position rear sight up to 600 m (656 yd)
Feed system 30-round detachableSTANAG Magazine, 100-round detachable C-Magdrum magazine
Sights Front sight adjustable in elevation and windage
The single-shot Brugger & Thomet launcher can fire projectiles of any length adhering to the 40x46mm caliber.
The Brugger & Thomet GL-06 is a single-shot, reusable grenade launcher originating from Switzerland. The small firm of Brugger & Thomet was founded in 1991 by Karl Brugger and Heinrich Thomet to supply gun suppressors to Swiss defense and law enforcement sectors. Thomet left the company , leaving Brugger in sole control and the firm has since branched out to reach several foreign arms markets with products such as the relatively new GL-06. The GL-06 is marketed to both police and military customers and can fulfill a variety of roles between them including that of crowd control, suppression and dislodging.
The GL-06 is operated by a manually-loaded, single-shot break-action breech that accepts a 40x46mm caliber grenade. Its operation is very similar in scope to the American Vietnam War-era M79 "Bloop Tube" 40mm grenade launcher or the similar 1960s-era HK69A1 produced by the German firm of Heckler & Koch. Muzzle velocity is rated at 279 feet per second with an effective range out to 900 feet (300 meters). The operator can make use of iron sights for accurized fire. The weapon weighs in at 4.52lbs and features a collapsible stock that takes the original 23.3 inch length down to a more manageable 15.2 reach. Barrel length is a fixed 11 inches.
Outwardly, the GL-06 shares an appearance more akin to that of a compact submachine gun. The design is more or less dominated by the cylindrical launch tube that is hinged forward to fold open and accept a fresh 40mm grenade. Sights are mounted atop the rear of the tube and open along with it. The receiver is stout and ergonomically designed to fit well in the hands. The action is actuated by way of a solid trigger set within a hardened trigger ring which is attached to the ergonomic pistol grip. The foldable stock is skeletal in nature and reduces the overall weight of the weapon system. An optional forward vertical grip can be affixed under the forend and accessories (Red Dot sight, flashlight) can be mounted atop the launch tube and to the upper sides of the forend near the vertical foregrip. A carrying strap is optional and can be linked up to a loop near the upper rear regions of the receiver. The base color for production GL-06 is a flat black.
The GL-06 can fire a variety of low-velocity 40mm ammunition types and was purposely designed as such to make it an acceptable foreign product. The LL-06 is a "less lethal" variant of the base GL-06 and features a vibrant bright yellow finish on the receiver, pistol grip and stock. Regardless of its less lethal marketing phrase, the LL-06 is said to still maintain the inherent qualities to manage all sorts of 40mm projectiles as needed.
The base GL-06 grenade launcher has been offered in two visibly different forms - one with a tubular foldable ballistic helmet visor stock and the other with the foldable skeletal stock.
Specifications
Weight 2.05 kg (4.52 lb)
Length 590 mm (23.2 in) stock extended / 385 mm (15.2 in) stock folded
Barrel length 280 mm (11.0 in)
Width 60 mm (2.4 in) stock extended / 95 mm (3.7 in) stock folded
Height 200 mm (7.9 in)
Caliber 40x46mm grenade
Action Break-action
Muzzle velocity 85 m/s (279 ft/s)
Effective firing range 300 m
Feed system Breech-loaded, single-shot
Sights Ghost ring iron sights
339 mm (13.3 in) sight radius
The China Lake Grenade Launcher of 40mm pump-action appeared in very limited numbers during the Vietnam War.
The US military attempted - through several notable endeavors - to provide a capable squad-level repeating grenade launcher during the Vietnam War. The most successful of these came to be the M79 of 1961, a brake-action system capable of firing various grenade types though limited to single round fire, requiring manual reloading of the weapon with each successive shot. The XM148 proved another wartime development, this as a prototype 40mm grenade projector with origins in the mid-1960s. It was operationally evaluated during the Vietnam War though never formally adopted into service. The XM148 concept later evolved into the widely-utilized and modern M203 single-shot underslung grenade launcher in circulation today.
The China Lake Naval Air Weapons Station (China Lake Naval Weapons Center) was established during the fighting of World War 2 at China Lake, California under the primary banner of the United States Navy. When the American special forces commitment in Vietnam increased, so too did the requirement for specialized weapon systems - particularly for elements of the Navy SEALs. One such requirement was for a more reliable grenade-launching system that could surpass the capabilities of the existing M79 and prototype XM148 series. Work began in 1967 and fell to the Special Projects Division at China Lake and the new design was attributed to Alfred F. Kermode. Development eventually outputted an interesting end-product, basically recognized as the "China Lake Grenade Launcher" due to a lack of any officially-assigned designation (the launcher was never formally adopted).
The China Lake Grenade Launcher was issued to SEAL units operating in secret operations throughout the Vietnam conflict. It was a repeat-fire, 40mm pump-action grenade projector with combat shotgun-like qualities and a relatively robust design. The external configuration was very much in line with a shotgun in that it sported a solid wooden shoulder stock with integral handgrip, an oblong trigger ring loop large enough for a gloved finger and a squared off, boxy aluminum receiver housing the required internal working components. The frontal section of the weapon exhibited a traditionally-shotgun "over-under" configuration with- the barrel seated at the receiver front and affixed over a tubular magazine lined with a ribbed moving slide. Overall length of weapon measured just over 34 inches with a barrel length of 14 inches. Due to its tubular magazine design, the launcher held the inherent ability to house up to 3 x 40x46mm SR grenades with a forth commonly introduced into the firing chamber. This allowed the operator to maximize his tactical battlefield value and fire off several rounds in repeat fashion before being forced to reload.
Specifications
Weight 4.63 kg (10.21 lb) loaded
3.72 kg (8.2 lb) empty
Length 875 mm (34.4 in)
Barrel length 356 mm (14.0 in)
Cartridge 40x46mm SR
Action Pump-action
Rate of fire 15 rounds/min
Muzzle velocity 76 m/s (249 ft/s)
Effective firing range 350 m
Feed system 3-round tubular magazine
Sights Open, leaf-type, square-notch/blade
The M203 grenade launcher can be fitted to a variety of non-M16/M4 rifles, increasing its global use.
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
The M203 is a single-shot, reusable 40mm grenade launcher designed to extend the reach of the standard infantryman, allowing him to become a more balanced warfighter. The system is attached under the barrel of an assault rifle or carbine-type weapon and used without extensive modifications to the base weapon. The M203 debuted in 1969 and entered service shortly thereafter. Prior to the arrival of the M203, the US Army relied on the stand-alone M79 single-shot grenade launcher - particularly during the Vietnam War - but limitations for the operator were soon apparent: the operator had nothing more than a sidearm pistol as his secondary weapon. Likewise, the experimental Colt Firearms XM148 single-shot underslung grenade launcher (fitted to an M16 service rifle) became another viable option at the time and, although field-tested with mixed results during the conflict, the weapon failed to gain a larger foothold. This period of development ultimately led to AAI Corporation's M203 which subsequently replaced both the M79 and XM148 series.
The M203 was initially designed and developed specifically for use with the Colt M16 series of rifles and the related carbines of the time as these remained the standard issue firearms of the United States military. The grenade launching system was attached under the forward part of the gun, just under the barrel, and featured an integrated trigger unit. Since there was no pistol grip available, the operator would rely utilize the M16's magazine as the forward grip when actuating the M203. Iron sights for ranging were provided as standard and operated apart from the standard rifle sights.
As it saw more widespread use, the M203 proved itself a versatile weapon as showcased by its many operators across the globe. The weapon could fire eight distinct 40mm grenade projectiles including the M406 HE (High-Explosive) round, the M433 HE DP (High-Explosive, Dual-Purpose) armor penetrator round, the M585 White Star Cluster illuminator round, the M651 Tactical CS crowd control CS gas round, the M781 Practice round for training, the Star Parachute illuminator/signaler in white, green and red colors, Ground Marker in red, green and yellow for marking targets or positions and the Buckshot round for close-quarters room clearing. Each M203 weighed approximately 3 pounds and raised the overall weight of a standard M16A2 series rifle (already at 8.79lbs) to an acceptable operating weight of just under 12lbs. An effective precision range of 492 feet was reachable while an area out to 1,148 could be targeted depending on environmental conditions. The official maximum range of the M203 was 1,312 feet with a minimum effective range of just over 100 feet (the latter for safety reasons). M203 units were shipped from the manufacturer complete with leaf sights, quadrant range sight and the hand guard.
Variants of the M203 have included the original, base M203 for use with the M16A1, M16A3 and M16A3 series of rifles as well as the M4 and M4A1 series of carbine systems. This particular model featured a 12-inch barrel. The M203A1 was offered as a complement to the M4 and M4A1 and given a shorter 9-inch barrel length. The M203A2 was developed for use with the M16A4 MWS (Modular Weapon System) and fielded a 12-inch length. The M203 PI was developed to fit the M203 grenade launcher to non-M16/M4 systems. The M203 had proven so popular for its time that foreign weapon companies were forced to design indigenous M203 attachment options for specific rifles and submachine guns.
Though the Mk 19 automatic grenade launcher also fires the 40mm round, it is of a slightly different caliber (40 x 53mm) and fires at a higher velocity than the 40mm (40 x 46mm) round used in the M203.
The new M320 single-shot, double-action, side-loading grenade launcher is set to replace the M203 in service with US military forces, bringing an end to the M203's legacy in the US military inventory. Several other nations have also retired the type from service.
The M203 has been produced by AAI Corporation, Colt Defense, Diemaco, Airtronic USA, RM Equipment, US Ordnance, Knight's Armament Company and Lewis Machine & Tool Company. While AAI was the original producer of the weapon, they were not set up for large-scale manufacturing and thusly Colt was awarded the new production contract by the US DoD. AAI was responsible for only the first 10,000 units. Colt versions were faithful to the original AAI design.
Specifications
Weight 3 lb (1.36 kg) (unloaded)
Length 15 in (380mm)
Barrel length 12 in (305mm)
Cartridge 40×46mm SR
Action Single shot
Rate of fire 5 to 7 round/min
Muzzle velocity 250 ft/s (76 m/s)
Effective firing range 160 yds (150 m)
Maximum firing range 437 yds (400 m)
Sights Quadrant sight or ladder sight on rifle
The Defcom XL200 enters the grenade launcher market as an alternative to the older Colt M203 series and the newer HK M320 line.
Defcom LLC of Commerce, Michigan, USA has developed the XL200 40mm rail-mounted grenade launcher as an alternative to the long-running M203 40mm underslung system and the newer Heckler & Koch HK 320 grenade launchers. The XL200 complies with current standard Mil Spec 1913 Picatinny and STANAG 4694 NATO rail systems for its connection to the forends of modern assault rifles or automatic carbines. A special stand-alone body known as the "XL220" allows the XL200 launcher tube and action to be supported by a rifle-style body system complete with rail sections for accessories, an integral pistol grip and folding twin-strut metal stock.
The XL200 has an overall weight of 1.3 lbs and an overall length of 12.75 inches with a barrel measuring just 9 inches long. Per Defcom marketing material, the barrel is rifled to US military specs. The launch tube is shrouded by a heavily-ribbed polymer cover providing a very firm forward grip while the system of operation relies on a double-action trigger. The integral trigger is enclosed by a thin protective ring with the host rifle's magazine to be used as the XL200's pistol grip. An ambidextrous lever control allows for a safety and free-fire function. As with the
M203 series, the XL200 fires the standard 40x46mm low-velocity grenade of which several warheads/payloads are readily available. Also as in the M203, the XL200 is restricted to single-round firing due to the size of the 40mm grenade round. The XL200 system is attached to the underside of a host weapon along two points featuring American Defense locking levers for quick release/install by the operator. Loading and reloading of the weapon is accomplished by simply sliding the tube body forward and tilting the assembly downwards to expose the breech. The breech face if of high quality titanium for repeat use. Grenade projectiles are then loaded in the usual way and the breech closed prior to firing. Spent casings are ejected manually prior to reloading. The XL200 is cleared to fire all currently supported US military and NATO-standard 40mm low-velocity grenade rounds. Compared to the M203 series, the XL200 is billed as lighter (by as much as 40%) and shorter while utilizing fewer parts for easier maintenance and repair.
Currently, Defcom LLC markets two body finishes for the their XL200 - one in matte black finish and another in a desert sand finish. Defcom also markets another fully-standalone grenade launcher in the
XL79 - a modernized form of the Vietnam-era M79 with integral pistol grip (with oversized trigger loop), skeletal shoulder stock and over/under accessories rail furniture. This is a break-action weapon as in the M79 and features a flip-up type sighting device.
Country of Origin: United States
Manufacturer: Defcom LLC - USA
Initial Year of Service: 2009
Overall Length: 324 mm (12.76 in)
Barrel Length: 229.00 mm (9.02 in)
Weight (Empty): 1.30 lb (0.59 kg)
Caliber*: 40x46mm
Action: Breech-Loading; Double-Action
Feed: Single-Shot
Rate-of-Fire: 6 rounds per minute
Sights: Host Weapon
The Defcom XL79 Composite is an all-modern 40mm single-shot grenade launching system in the mold of the Vietnam-era M79 series.
The XL79 Composite is a modernized form of the Vietnam War-era M79 single-shot grenade launcher. The M79 gave good service for its time, replacing the rifle grenade common to World War 2 American infantry. The system was designed as a rifle-style component with a break-action breech to house a single 40x46mm grenade projectile which provided the operator with direct and in-direct fire in support of allied actions. However, such a system precluded use of a serviceable secondary weapon, operators often times relegated to carrying a simple sidearm or combat knife. While the XL79 continues the trend, it brings about the concept of the M79 in an all-modern lightweight polymer body for ease of handling and transport. Compared to the original M79, the XL79 is some 50% lighter while firing the same 40mm low-velocity grenade common to the US military and forces all over the world. The XL79 is the product of Defcom LLC, a firm operating out of Commerce, Michigan, USA.
The Xl79 takes on a conventional shape sporting a rounded barrel assembly hinged to open forward and expose the breech. Loading and reloading is done in the conventional way by insertion of the 40mm grenade into the open breech. The system is then closed and made ready to fire as normal with the trigger of a double-action type featuring a safety mechanism. The barrel is attached to a small-area receiver managing a most compact form. The receiver features an integral pistol grip with trigger unit, the loop large enough for use by a gloved hand. A detachable flip-up type iron sight (ranged out to 425 meters) is fitted near the muzzle and folded down when not in use. This is coupled with a front iron sight as well for accurized fire at range. The weapon also sports an included skeletal shoulder stock which folds over the right side of the body. When collapsed, the XL79 becomes a highly compact weapon - a feature lacking in the original M79 series. Accessories rails are present along the top and front underside of the barrel to increase the weapon's tactical usefulness in the field. Twin sling swivels allow for a shoulder strap to be fitted.
Compared to the original
M79, the XL79 is of a much lighter overall design reducing fatigue and improving transport efficiency. Overall weight is 3.1lbs (compared to the M79's 6.45lb mass). With the stock open, the weapon measures 24.75 inches against the M79's 28.75 inch running length. However, the collapsing nature of the XL79 improves portability to 16 inches while managing an 8 inch barrel (the M79 uses a 14 inch barrel length). The XL79 also featured far fewer moving parts and is designed to the specific US military and NATO criteria regarding barrel rifling, accessories support (via the included rail sections) and use of low-velocity 40mm grenades.
Defcom LLC markets the XL79 in three tactical finishes: matte black, matte desert sand and matte woodland green.
Specifications for the
Defcom XL79 Composite
Single-Shot 40mm Grenade Launcher
Country of Origin: United States
Manufacturer: Defcom LLC - USA
Initial Year of Service: 2009
Overall Length: 629 mm (24.76 in)
Barrel Length: 406.00 mm (15.98 in)
Weight (Empty): 3.11 lb (1.41 kg)
Caliber*: 40x46mm
Action: Breech-Loading; Double-Action
Feed: Single-Shot
Rate-of-Fire: 6 rounds per minute
Sights: Flip-Up Type Iron