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M79 Grenade Launcher

M79 Grenade Launcher

$100.00

Replica 3D-Printed M79 Grenade Launcher – Display/Reenactment Prop (NOT A TOY)

This is a full-scale 1:1 3D-printed replica of the M79 Grenade Launcher, crafted from durable plastic and designed specifically for display, cosplay, or reenactment use.

  • Material: High-quality PLA or PETG plastic

  • Construction: 3D printed in multiple parts, part assembly is required.

  • Functionality: Non-functional replica – not capable of discharging a projectile by explosive charge or gas, does not fire and can not be modified to discharge etc.

  • Safety Features: Comes with an orange tip to comply with safety regulations

  • Use Cases: Ideal for film props, military reenactments, collectors, or themed displays

⚠️ Not a Toy – This is a detailed replica intended for adults. It should be used responsibly and never brandished in public spaces. Please ensure you have read and understood the shipping terms to confirm you have met your legal responsibilities. Always follow local laws and regulations regarding replica weapons. We reserve the right to cancel or refuse any order at our sole discretion.


M79 Grenade Launcher: Historical Overview

Introduction:
The M79 grenade launcher is a single-shot, shoulder-fired weapon that fires 40mm grenades. It was introduced by the United States during the early 1960s and is sometimes nicknamed the "Thumper" or "Blooper" because of its distinctive sound.

Development:

  • Developed in the late 1950s and early 1960s as a replacement for the older rifle grenade systems.

  • Designed to provide infantry soldiers with a lightweight, portable weapon capable of launching explosive rounds at targets beyond the effective range of hand-thrown grenades.

  • The launcher operates much like a large shotgun, with a break-action breech for loading single rounds.

Use in Combat:

  • Saw extensive use during the Vietnam War, where it became a vital tool for US troops in jungle warfare.

  • Its 40mm grenades could be used against enemy personnel, fortifications, and light vehicles.

  • The M79 allowed soldiers to deliver explosive firepower quickly and accurately at ranges of approximately 350 meters.

  • Often issued to squad grenadiers or designated marksmen within infantry units.

Design Features:

  • Single-shot, break-action design.

  • Effective range: ~350 meters.

  • Weight: around 2.5 kg (5.5 lbs).

  • Simple, reliable, and easy to use.

  • Could fire a variety of 40mm rounds including high-explosive, smoke, and illumination.

Legacy:

  • Though eventually supplanted by the M203 grenade launcher (which attaches under the barrel of an M16 rifle), the M79 remained in use for many years due to its reliability and ease of maintenance.

  • It influenced the development of later grenade launchers and remains an iconic weapon from the Vietnam era.

  • Introduced: 1961 (by the U.S. military)

  • Primary Use: 1960s to early 1970s

  • Most Notable Conflict: Vietnam War (1955–1975; U.S. involvement escalated in the 1960s)

  • Still in Use?: While largely replaced by newer systems like the M203 and M320, the M79 is still used in some limited roles (especially for specialty forces or situations where a standalone grenade launcher is useful).

Overview:

  • The M79 is a single-shot, break-action, shoulder-fired grenade launcher that fires 40mm grenades.

  • Nicknamed the "Thumper" or "Blooper" because of the distinct sound it makes when fired.

  • It filled the gap between hand-thrown grenades and mortar fire, allowing for greater range and precision.

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