For an explanation of kinds of firearm here. If you are looking for information about a specific model, check out the review page. This page is for the heavy steel, the machines that put out a lot of damage and need a lot of know-how and maintenance to function properly. Feel free to add to it if you find a gun that hasn't been added. The format for entries is below:

Model: This model number of this year. Tell the gun's story.

Where to find:
Who uses it and where would you find it? How are replacement parts?

Complexity:
How hard is it to maintain and use this weapon effectively?

Size and weight:
Barrel length, overall length weight in ounces and kilograms.

Action:
Is it autoloading? Single shot?

Caliber(s):
Primary chambering as well as other variations.

Magazine:
Type of magazine and capacity.

Trigger:
Trigger type and weight if available.

Controls:
Where the safeties, action releases and other controls are on the weapon, with pictures if possible.

Loading: How to load the firearm and make ready to fire.
Condition One, or "Locked and Cocked." Chamber loaded, magazine full, hammer cocked and safety applied.

Condition Two. Chamber loaded, magazine full, hammer down, safety off.

Condition Three. Chamber empty, magazine full, hammer down, safety off.

Unloading:
How to unload and make safe.

Field Stripping:
How to take down the weapon for cleaning, with pictures if possible.

Design Quirks:
Unique aspects of this gun.



Model: M79

The M79, nicknamed the "Blooper" or "Thumper", is a single-shot, break-open grenade launcher in use with almost 40 countries worldwide. It was produced in 1960 by the Springfield Armory as the very first low-pressure grenade launcher for infantry use. With the convenience of an infantry weapon, and the versatility of a squad level mortar, Vietnam proved the M79 a huge success.

However, a grenadier packing an M79 could at most, carry a pistol as a backup. He had no rifle to fight with at close range, and before the end of the war, the launcher that would become the M203 was developed. Mounted to a rifle, it allowed the grenadier to retain the same mid and close range combat capability as a rifleman, and the M79 was phased out of official service.

It is still in use with dozens of countries, and the Navy SEALS and Army Special Forces continue to use it due to its greater range than the M203 underbarrel grenade launcher that replaced it. For this same reason, it has recently seen a revival in the Middle East, for demolishing IEDs at a safe range.

Where to find:
While it was once in common use with the U.S. Army, it's now a rare weapon outside of the militaries of South America, Africa, and the Caribbean. However, it is still in use with some police forces as a riot control weapon, firing less-lethal rounds. Being a grenade launcher, it is classified as a destructive device and regulated accordingly. Any that can be purchased generally cost many thousands of dollars, not including ammo costs - every single grenade needs to be individually registered.

Complexity:
The break-open design is very simple to use, and there are few controls to learn. The most complicated part is the adjustable sight,

Size and weight:
Weight 95 ounces (2.6 kg) unloaded. Length 731mm. Barrel 355mm.

Action:
Single-shot, break-open grenade launcher.

Caliber(s):
40x46mm low pressure grenade and less-lethal rounds.

Magazine:
N/A

Trigger:
Single action.

Controls:
The M79 has oft been compared to a break-open shotgun not only because of it's aesthetic similarity, but also if it's similar operation.

The barrel locking latch is just behind the barrel, pushed to the right to release the barrel. Opening the breach both cocks the hammer and applies the safety, which sits directly behind the lever. Push forward to fire, push back for safe. An F or S is visible to indicate the current position. Closing the breech automatically snaps the latch into the closed position.

The M79 has an extractor that pushes out empty casings, but unlike a shotgun, it only partially exposes them so the shooter can reload, rather than completely ejecting them free of the breech.

There is a detent assembly in the trigger guard, which can be depressed to move the trigger guard left and right and fire while wearing gloves.

Loading:
Condition One, or "Locked and Cocked." Chamber loaded, magazine full, hammer cocked and safety applied.
1) Point the gun in a safe direction. Needless to say, you do not want an "accidental discharge" with a grenade launcher.
2) Press the barrel locking lever all the way to the right and rotate the barrel down. This cocks the hammer and engages the safety.
3) Insert a grenade into the breech.
4) Rotate the barrel upward until it locks into the frame. The barrel latch should automatically snap to the closed position.
5) Ensure that the gun is on safe.

Condition Two. Chamber loaded, magazine full, hammer down, safety off.
The hammer is always cocked if the weapon is loaded, making this impossible. However, in Vietnam, it was a common practice to carry the weapon with the barrel open, to be quickly loaded, as the mechanical safety was not trusted.

Condition Three. Chamber empty, magazine full, hammer down, safety off.
Lacking a magazine, this is impossible for the M79.

Unloading:
1) Point the gun in a safe direction. Needless to say, you do not want an "accidental discharge" with a grenade launcher.
2) Press the barrel locking lever all the way to the right and rotate the barrel down. The safety will automatically engage.
3) Pull the extractor tang back if necessary and pull out the spent round.
4) Close the breech and pull the trigger. The hammer should snap on an empty chamber.

Field Stripping:
1) Ensure that the weapon is unloaded and safety applied.
2) Remove the retaining band screw, which passes through the rear of the front sling swivel mount, and pull the fore-end assembly away from the barrel.
3) Press the barrel locking lever to the right and rotate the barrel down until it stops. Slide the barrel off the fulcrum pin and remove it from the receiver.
4) Remove the stock screw and washers and pull the stock rearward from the receiver.

Assembly
1) Place the lock washer on the stock screw and install the stock on the receiver.
2) Place the barrel on the fulcrum pin. Hold the cocking lever up, lower the barrel, and ensure that the cocking arm slides under the cocking lever. Close the barrel.
3) Place the fore-end assembly on the barrel and secure it by replacing the retaining band screw.

Design Quirks:
Compared to a break-open shotgun on a regular basis, the M79 does have a similar design, as well as the same rugged effectiveness in combat. Despite having a short service life, like many other products of the Vietnam era, the M79 is far from uncommon on battlegrounds around the world.

Model: M203
The M203 is a single-shot grenade launcher used mainly as an underbarrel weapon for the M16 and M4 rifle series, though it is compatible with many rifles. It is very popular worldwide and is used both as an underbarrel weapon, easing use and portability for a grenadier required to carry multiple weapons, and as a stand-alone weapon.

The M203 has been in use since 1969, replacing the M79 and XM148 (field tested only) grenade launchers seen in Vietnam. Despite its long service life, it is slowly being replaced with the M320. The M203 fires the same 40mm grenade as the M79, allowing for ammo to be shared between the two.

Where to find:
The M203 is in use with almost 40 countries and can be found in large numbers in the United States military. While the grenade launcher is legal to own in the United States, it is not easy or cheap to get; new launchers cost up to $2000 plus a $200 tax stamp as a destructive device, and each individual high-explosive grenade (quite rare on the civilian market) much be registered with a $200 tax stamp.

Complexity:
The M203 is little more than a tube and a trigger. It is extraordinarily simple, though it requires a proprietary sighting system to be attached to the rifle.

Size and weight:
Weight 1.36 kg (3 lbs) unloaded. Barrel length 305 mm (12 in.). Total length 380 mm (15 in.).

Action:
Single shot, breech-loading

Caliber(s):
40mm grenade. Ten variations
* M406 High-Explosive round
* M433 High-Explosive Dual Purpose round
* M585 White Star Cluster (flare)
* M651 Tactical CS Grenade
* M781 Practice round
* Star Parachute (White (M583A1), Green (M661), and Red (M662))
* Ground Marker (Red (M713), Green (M715), and Yellow (M716))
* M576 Buckshot ("Beehive")
* M1006 Sponge Grenade (non-lethal past 10 meters)
* M1029 Crowd Dispersal round (shotgun shell full of rubber balls, non-lethal past 10 meters)

Magazine:
N/A

Trigger:
Single-action

Controls:
The safety is inside the front of the trigger guard; push forward for FIRE and pull back for SAFE. The rear of the trigger guard can be pushed forward and rotated down to allow firing with mittens or gloves. The barrel latch is above the barrel on the left side of the launcher.

Loading: How to load the firearm and make ready to fire.
1) Press the barrel latch and slide the barrel forward.
2) Push the safety back toward the trigger to put it on SAFE.
3) Insert a grenade nose-first into the rear of the barrel.
4) Slide the barrel back until it clicks into place.


Unloading:
1) Press the barrel latch and slide the barrel forward.
2) If the grenade does not eject, use a cleaning rod down the barrel to push it out the back.
3) Close the barrel and activate the safety.

Field Stripping:
1) Clear the weapon as described in the unloading procedures.
2) Loosen the mounting screw for the quadrant sight assembly on the carrying handle of the rifle and remove the sight.
3) Press the barrel latch and slide the barrel forward.
4) Insert a cleaning rod into the fourth hole from the muzzle on the handguard to press the barrel stop and remove the barrel.
5) Pull back on the rifle's slip ring and pull the handguard up and back to remove it.

Design Quirks:
Unique aspects of this gun.


Model: M72 LAW (Light Anti-Tank Weapon)

The US's take on the Panzerfaust concept, the LAW on paper is a wasteful, low powered relic of the Vietnam war. However, it's light weight and sufficient firepower has granted a long life in the armories of over forty nations. While the original contractor, the US Army has dropped it, the US Marines have made large purchases for use in urban warfare, and it is a staple of special forces armories.

The primary advantage of the M72 is identical to that of the Panzerfaust; rather than a dedicated anti-tank team, each infantryman could carry a number of rockets, increasing the unit's flexibility on the whole. However, with advances in modern armor, the LAW is relatively ineffective in it's intended role. It is more suited to urban warfare, where light, unarmored "technicals" and entrenched infantry is the biggest concern. In this role, it excels.

Where to find:
The LAW is one of the more common designs out there. In addition to widespread imitation and use by a number of third world nations, it's unique perks have kept it strong in the armories of modern militaries.

Complexity:
Maintenance is non-existent on the user end, and usage is fairly simple as it is a disposable weapon.

Size and weight:
Weight 105 ounces (2.5 kg) completed. Collapsed length 612.5mm Extended length 825mm.

Variants tend to be somewhat larger and heavier.

Action:
Single shot, telescopic rocket launcher. Disposable

Caliber(s):
66mm Rocket.

Magazine:
N/A

Trigger:
A single action trigger set in the top of the launcher, cocked upon open the launcher.

Controls:
There are few controls on the LAW. The end caps and sling mounts are held in place by a pin on the rear of the launcher. The front sight and rear sight are spring loaded, popping into place when launcher is extended. Directly in front of the rear sight is the trigger, and in front of that is the safety, which is pulled forward before firing. A second button in front of the safety is used to collapse the launcher.

Loading:
The weapon does not have to be loaded, but there is still a process to put the LAW into a ready-to-fire state. The launcher itself has instructions.
1) Remove the pin from the rear of the launcher and remove the end cap. This will cause the front cap and sling to fall from the launcher.
2) Firmly grasp the ends of the launcher and pull them open until it locks. The sights should pop up.
3) Shoulder the launcher and deactivate the safety by pulling it forward. Be sure to grasp the plastic part of the tube, not the barrel.
4) Being sure of the area fifty feet behind you, squeeze the trigger

Unloading:
1) Activate the safety by pushing it inwards.
2) Push the button in front of the trigger, and collapse the tube partially.
3) Fold the front, then the rear sight, continuing to collapse the tube so they are held in place.
4) Recover the front cap and place it onto the launcher, threading the sling onto the rear cap.
5) Replace the rear end cap and re-insert the safety pin.

It's quite a pain to collapse the tube. Hang on to all the components, or, better yet, only open the tube when deployment is certain. Another important note is that the round is only water tight until opened for the first time.

Field Stripping:
This does not apply to this weapon.

Design Quirks:
The LAW design is widely copied. Both Russia and China have made their own versions of the design, and several different manufactures have made the original launcher. It's a handy weapon ideally suited to today's battlefields.
Model: AT4 (Eighty-Four)
The M136 AT4 is an 84mm unguided, portable, single-shot recoilless smoothbore weapon built by the Swedish company Saab Bofors Dynamics. The AT4 was designed as a weapon to engage medium to light armored vehicles from any direction, Main Battle Tanks from the sides or rear, and as an assault weapon against buildings and fortifications. It was designed to be simple, rugged, and accurate enough to use against moving targets.

The AT4 uses what the company refers to as a beyond-armor effect, where the warhead causes not only massive fragmentation and spalling inside the vehicle, but also massive overpressure inside the vehicle, an extremely bright light, dense smoke, and excessive heat. Along with killing and injuring enemy crew on impact, this effect will use light and smoke to blind the crew for up to seven minutes and risk igniting the vehicle's ammunition and diesel fuel. All in all, not a pleasant weapon to get hit by.

The AT4 has been in the service of the US military since early 1987. A new version, the AT4-CS (Confined Space), has been developed to solve the problem of a massive backblast. This version uses a saltwater countermass in the rear of the launcher to absorb the back blast; the resulting spray captures and dramatically slows down the pressure wave, allowing troops to fire from enclosed areas.

Where to find:
The AT4 is in service with 21 countries and is very commonly used by the United States Army and Marines Corps. A single weapon costs close to $1500 and cannot be legally bought in the United States.

Complexity:
The AT4 was designed as a very simple and rugged weapon. As a one-shot disposable launcher, it has simple controls and usage. If you can learn all of the buttons, you can fire it with ease.

Size and weight:
Weight 6.7 kg (14.77 lbs) Length 101.6 cm (40 in.)

Action:
Single-shot disposable rocket launcher.

Caliber(s):
84mm

Magazine:
N/A

Trigger:
Single action

Controls:
There is a safety pin at the rear of the tube that blocks the firing rod and prevents the launcher from going off. There are two safeties: a rod cocking lever on the left side of the tube and a red safety lever in front of the rod cocking lever. The red firing button is on the right side of the launcher and pressed with the right thumb.

Loading:
The AT4 is a pre-loaded round of ammunition, but there is a process in preparing to fire.
1) Remove the safety pin at the rear of the tube.
2) Take a firing position and check the rear to ensure that there is nothing that can be damaged by the backblast (65 meters in a 90 degree fan behind the tube). If firing while prone, place your legs to the side to keep them away from the rear of the launcher.
3) Move back the front and rear sight covers to let the sights pop up.
4) Move the rod cocking lever forward and over the top to the right side of the launcher and take aim.
5) Hold down the red safety lever in front of the rod cocking lever. When ready to fire, push the red firing button with your right thumb. The firing button has a similar resistance to an assault rifle's trigger pull, so don't jab at the button; just push it forward like you would squeeze a trigger.

Unloading:
While the rocket itself cannot be unloaded, the weapon can be made safe.
1) Remove your hand from the red safety lever.
2) Move the rod cocking lever back over the tube and pull it back into the SAFE position.
3) Reinsert the safety pin at the rear.

Field Stripping:
This does not apply to this weapon.

Design Quirks:
The extreme backblast of the standard version of this weapon makes it highly unsafe to fire in buildings, and it will more than likely reveal your position to the enemy.

Model: Carl Gustav Recoiless Rifle
A long-lived product of World War Two, the Carl Gustav is a Swedish series of recoiless rifles named after the philosopher Carl Gustav Jung. Essentially, they're a breach loading artillery piece modified to vent firing gasses through the rear of the launcher to balance recoil, like a rocket-propelled grenade. They're more than sufficient at knocking out slightly dated Cold-War tanks, as are still common, and light vehicles, as well as structures. In short, they're good for blasting the hell out of something.

It's simple, effective design has made it one of the most common launchers around the world, as a weapon in direct competition with the RPG-7. A huge variety of ammunition grants incredible flexibility, and the design has been updated several times to keep up with the tide of war. Despite these advantages, the Carl Gustav has two main problems.

For one, the weapon is incredibly heavy, as well as bulky. The original designed weighed over thirty pounds because of the all-steel construction. The M3, while almost half the weight, is still not light enough to be anything other than a dedicated anti-tank gunner weapon, or a bunker buster. In addition, for such a simple design, the Carl Gustav is quite complex to maintain and use properly.

Where to find:
The Carl Gustav is still common in the armories of nations like the USA, Canada and Britain, as well as being the primary anti-tank weapon a number of European armies. Even when it is no longer a standard issue weapon, recoiless rifles tend to be somewhat favored by special operations units.

Complexity:
Truth be told, the Carl Gustav takes a brain to shoot, and not everyone should be trusted with it. Simply loading and firing the weapon takes some excellent teamwork between gunner and assistant, with multiple safeties to handle. Maintenance, too, is difficult. The breech and gas ports base of the ammunition must be meticulously taken care of, or else the delicate recoil counterbalancing could fail and cause the launcher to jolt forward or backward with the force of the rocket. Safety precautions must be strictly adhered to as well, as the backblast of such a weapon is truly nasty.

Size and weight:
M2: Weight 576 ounces (16.35 kg) unloaded. Length 1100mm.*
M3: Weight 299 ounces (8.5 kg) unloaded. Length 1065mm.*

*The barrel is essentially the full length of the weapon as it is loaded in the rear.

The M3 uses a carbon-fiber barrel to cut weight. It's distinguishing trait is the carry handle on the top of the weapon.

Action:
Breech loading recoiless rifle.

Caliber(s):
84mm shell.

The variety of ammunition is truly staggering. With standard HEAT shells, High-Explosive-Dual-Purpose (HEDP, which can even be set to air-burst), illumination flares, smoke rounds, training rounds, and even second generation rocket-assisted HEAT shells with tandem warheads to defeat reactive armor.

An interesting point is while the ammo is a cross between cannon rounds and rockets, they are considered grenades. Indeed, the Swedish name for the weapon is "Grenade-rifle."

Magazine:
N/A

Trigger:
A percussion mechanism with a conventional trigger in the pistol grip housing.

Controls:
The rear grip contains the trigger, as well as the manual safety and cocking lever. The entire unit is moved rearwards to unlock the breech. The breech, with the recoil balancing nozzle, is called the Venturi Nozzle. It is locked by a lever on the right side, called the "Venturi Lock," and swings to the left for loading.

The Carl Gustav generally comes with a optical sight with x2 magnification, but it may also be found with starlight sights or plain iron sights. A bipod or tripod may be found as well.

Loading:
This is a complex process that is best carried out with two people. The process for firing with a single person will be detailed as well. However, note that heat-resistant gloves are needed to handle the shells, and high-quality ear protection is absolutely mandatory.

It is important to understand that the recoiless rifle is not normally carried in a ready-to-fire state. It is not loaded until absolutely necessary.

Gunner with Assistant
1) Gunner, carrying the launcher, should activate the safety, and push the cocking lever forward. They will then call for the type of ammunition required.
2) Assistant unlocks the Venturi Nozzle using the Venturi Lock, then examines the bore for any obstruction.
3) Assistant picks up the round and inserts it, lining up the notch in the round with the top of the breech.
4) Assistant firmly locks the Venturi Nozzle into place and slaps the Venturi Lock to secure it.
5) Assistant checks the ground behind the launcher for at least thirty meters for anything that could be damaged by the backblast, or reflect it back towards the team.
6) Assistant verbally states the weapon is loaded and slaps the gunner to indicate they are ready to fire. At this point, they should either sit directly beside the gunner to avoid muzzle blast, or take cover several feet away.
7) The gunner may or may not ask for a range indication at this point. They deactivate the safety, lining up the sights with the target.
8) Gunner gives a verbal indication he is firing and squeezes the trigger.

Gunner without assistant
1) Activate the safety, and push the cocking lever forward.
2) Brace the weapon so that the breech can be accessed. Avoid sticking the barrel in the dirt, as this can create debris in the bore. It may be better to cradle the launcher against your chest and operate the breech with the right hand.
3) Slap the Venturi lock open and pull open the Venturi Nozzle. Take a glance down the bore to check for obstructions.
4) Insert the round, lining the notch with the top of the breech. Seat it firmly.
5) Close the breech and slap the Venturi Lock closed.
6) Check the area behind the launcher for at least thirty meters for anything that could be harmed by backblast, and any object that could reflect it back towards you.
7) Shoulder the weapon and deactivate the safety.
8) Squeeze the trigger.

Unloading:

Gunner with Assistant
1) Gunner, carrying the launcher, should activate the safety, and push the cocking lever forward. They will then call for the assistant to unload the weapon.
2) Assistant slaps the Venturi Lock and slides open the Venturi Nozzle.
3) Using a heat resistant glove, the Assistant hooks a finger into the notch in the shell rim and removes it from the breech.*
4) Assistant examines the bore to ensure it is empty. They then slide the Venturi Nozzle shut and slap the Venturi Lock.
5) Assistant verbally calls that the breech is clear.
6) Gunner deactivates the safety.
7) Gunner dry-fires to clear the weapon.

Gunner without Assistant
1) Activate the safety.
2) Brace the weapon so that the breech can be accessed. Avoid sticking the barrel in the dirt, as this can create debris in the bore. It may be better to cradle the launcher against your chest and operate the breech with the right hand.
3) Slap the Venturi lock open and pull open the Venturi Nozzle.
4) With heat-resistant glove, hook a finger into the notch in the shell rim and remove it from the breech.*
5) Visually confirm the breech is empty.
6) Slide the Venturi Nozzle closed and slap the Venturi Lock.
7) Shoulder the weapon deactivate the safety.
8) Squeeze the trigger to clear the weapon.

*When reloading, skip directly to the loading process after this step.

Field Stripping:
The Carl Gustav is a very simple weapon, albeit high maintenance. It doesn't require regularly dissemble, but care must be made to keep the nozzle, and the bore itself, very clean.

Design Quirks:
The Carl Gustav is a high performance platform that requires a very competent crew to operate and must be maintained meticulously for it's simple action to function. Compared to a weapon like the RPG-7, or the SMAW, it's much less intuitive to use but more flexible, and potentially much more powerful. Another important difference is that the shells have a higher velocity than most rockets and a very flat trajectory, contributing to excellent accuracy.


Model: Ручной (Hand-held) Противотанковый (Anti-Tank) Гранатомёт,(Grenade Launcher) [RPG-2]

Essentially a Russian take on the Panzerfaust launcher of WW2, the RPG-2 is not a true rocket propelled grenade, but a recoiless gun, using a gunpowder charge to eject the grenade at the target. Due to the lack of a rocket sustainer, this means the warhead flies in a ballistic arc, making it somewhat unsuited to hitting moving targets.

Before the RPG-7 was introduced, the RPG-2 was the squad-level rocket for the Soviet Union. It was famously used by the Vietcong with the "B-40" designation, capable of easily destroying the M113 APCs that the Americans used. In addition to the anti tank role, the RPG-2 was found to be an effective weapon in counter-ambush role, where a rocket would be fired into a sniper position immediately upon contact, for bunker busting and even shot into the treeline to create shrapnel that would rain upon the enemy. Even as it's larger cousin has become more effective, the RPG-2 remains very common, being even easier to build than the RPG-7.

Where to find:
Though obviously not something found in a commerical gunstore, the RPG-2 is one of the most common rocket launchers world-wide, and very simple to manufacture, both the weapon and the ammunition.

Complexity:
The RPG-2 is essentially a tube with a trigger. There is little to maintain and the sights are simple as well.

Size and weight:
Weight 100 ounces (2.83kg) unloaded, 164 ounces (4.67kg) loaded. Length 650mm.*

*The barrel is essentially the full length of the weapon as the rocket extends almost to the end of the tube.

Action:
Muzzle-loading reloadable recoiless gun, percussion fired.

Caliber(s):
The bore is a 40mm tube, with a 82mm PG-2 rocket. Unlike most other RPGs, there is only one warhead type, HEAT (rated for roughly 200mm penetration against RHA). The rocket itself cannot be fired from the RPG-2; a booster component must be screwed into the base of the rocket. This rocket and booster is not interchangable with that of the RPG-7. Six fins unfold from the grenade once it clears the launcher.

Magazine:
N/A

Trigger:
Single action, external hammer.

Controls:
The controls are mainly in the grip, an external hammer on the rear that was cocked before pulling the trigger. The safety is cross bolt, pushed from right to left to fire, and left to right for safe. The trigger mechanism has a small gas vent on the right side, which allows excess gas to escape during firing. While not lethal, this makes it very hard to fire the RPG-2 left handed, to say the least. It should not pose a problem for the assisstant, however, so long as they stay at least a foot away.

The launcher itself is a simple tube with a muzzle and an open rear. Some versions have venturi nozzles. The sight is marked for various ranges and is non foldable.

Loading: How to load the firearm and make ready to fire.
It's very important to understand that the RPG-2 was rarely carried loaded, unless in a situation such as counter ambush. In any case, you must keep the hammer down and safety on until absolutely ready to shoot. The consquences of a RPG accidentally going off are going to be understandably messy!

Gunner with Assistant
1) Gunner shoulders the launcher, ensuring the weapon is on safe and the hammer is not in the cocked position.
2) Assistant screws the booster unit snug into the bottom of the grenade.
3) Assistant starts the booster into the muzzle and eases the grenade into the weapon. The fins should be sealed shut from the factory.
4) Assistant turns the grenade clockwise until the post in the grenade lines up with the notch in the weapon, and fully seats it.
5) Gunner cocks the hammer and deactivates the safety. Assistant checks the backblast area, then backs way several feet.
6) Gunner lines the rear sight with the front, each aperture should have a number marking range - the longer the range, the higher you hold the weapon.

Gunner without Assistant
1) Ensure the weapon is on safe and the hammer is not in the cocked position.
2) Screw the booster unit snug into the bottom of the grenade.
3) Start the booster into the muzzle, slowly ease the grenade into the weapon. The fins should be sealed shut from the factory.
4) Turn the grenade clockwise until the post in the grenade lines up with the notch in the weapon, and fully seat it.
5) Shoulder the weapon, so that the tube extends over your shoulder. Check the area behind to see if anything will be damaged by the backblast.
6) **** the hammer and deactivate the safety.
7) Line the rear sight with the front, each aperture should have a number marking range - the longer the range, the higher you hold the weapon.

Unloading:
RPGs are not designed to be readily unloaded, but there isn't anything actually holding the rocket in place, so it's hypothetically a matter of easing out the rocket, then removing the booster. Since it isn't sure if an RPG will be fired, this is why it's absolutely essential to leave the weapon safed and uncocked until it is certain it will be fired.

Field Stripping:
N/A

Design Quirks:
The RPG-2 is a dressed up Panzerfaust, in essence, and is a bit different than most rocket launchers in employment. It's essentially a large grenade launcher, but lacks the shrapnel to make it as effective in such a role.

Model: Ручной (Hand-held) Противотанковый (Anti-Tank) Гранатомёт,(Grenade Launcher) [RPG-7]

The successor to the RPG-2, the RPG-7 was first introduced in 1961. Only ten years later, it saw widespread use in the Vietnam war, proving itself a devastating weapon against the lightly armored American vehicles, as well as being more accurate and tactically flexible than the RPG-2. It became the most common Rocket Propelled Grenade in the world, being used by over forty nations, and produced by nine. It has countless variants used in nearly every modern conflict, from the Vietcong, to the Muhajadeen in the Soviet-Afghan conflict (the usage of which was so effective the Russians had to resort to driving out of RPG and AK range) and even by Somali militia to shoot down two UH-60 helicopters in the Battle of Mogadishu.

In addition to a HEAT round, anti personnel, thermobaric and tandem HEAT were quickly made, keeping the launcher updated with the times, and there is even a starlight and thermal sight available for the launcher. Russia still uses modified RPG-7s as frontline rocket launchers, and many third-world armies heavily rely on RPGs.

Where to find:
The RPG-7 is easily the most common RPG in the world, so parts and launchers are not very hard to find. The main issue is quality control with aging weapons and ammunition, which can be quite dangerous to the shooter.

Complexity:
Like the RPG-2, the RPG-7 is essentially a long tube with a percussion mechanism mounted to it. Though the RPG-7 has some useful additions like a venturi nozzle and improved sights, it's no more difficult to use, and far more damaging.

Size and weight:
Weight 246 ounces (7kg) unloaded. Length 950mm.*

*The barrel is essentially the full length of the weapon as the rocket extends almost to the end of the tube.

Action:
Muzzle-loading recoiless gun / rocket launcher hybrid. Percussion fired.

Caliber(s):
Like the RPG-2, the internal bore is 40mms wide, the standard PG-7V rocket being 85mms wide. The rocket has a booster unit which is screwed on to the base of the rocket. Unlike the PG-2, this booster also carries a stabilizer assembly that opens during flight. When fired, the booster ejects the rocket clear of the launcher, it's sustainer motor igniting roughly forty feet from the launcher, and carrying it out to 900 meters before self destructing. The standard warheads have been defeated by slat armor or even chain link fencing in the past, the links squeezing the sides of the warhead and shorting out the detonation circuit.

To the left is a number of rockets available for the RPG-7. From left to right, there is Tandem HEAT, designed to defeat the reactive armor used in modern tanks, HEAT, the original warhead, Thermobaric, which uses a Fuel-Air reaction to create a wave of expanding heat and energy, and Fragmentation, designed to target infantry.

Magazine:
N/A

Trigger:
Single action external hammer.


Controls:
The controls are mainly in the grip, an external hammer on the rear that was cocked before pulling the trigger. The safety is cross bolt, pushed from right to left to fire, and left to right for safe. The sights on the RPG-7 make it impossible to fire left handed.

There is a large venturi nozzle for backblast. Sights are a set of fold-up irons, though a telescopic sight is typical. Some versions lack the second grip, and some also dissemble into two halves for transport.

Loading: How to load the firearm and make ready to fire.
Though a little safer than the RPG-2, the RPG-7 was still carried most often without a rocket loaded. In any case, hammer down, safety on, and safety pin in place until ready to shoot.

Gunner with Assistant
1) Gunner shoulders the launcher, ensuring the weapon is on safe and the hammer is not in the cocked position.
2) Assistant screws the booster unit snug into the bottom of the grenade.
3) Assistant starts the booster into the muzzle and eases the grenade into the weapon. The fins should be sealed shut from the factory.
4) Assistant turns the grenade clockwise until the post in the grenade lines up with the notch in the weapon, and fully seats it. He then removes the safety pin from the warhead.
5) Gunner cocks the hammer and deactivates the safety. Assistant checks the backblast area, then backs way several feet.
6) Gunner either uses the fold-up iron sights or the telesopic sight to gauge the range, then fires.*

Gunner without Assistant
1) Ensure the weapon is on safe and the hammer is not in the cocked position.
2) Screw the booster unit snug into the bottom of the grenade.
3) Start the booster into the muzzle, slowly ease the grenade into the weapon. The fins should be sealed shut from the factory.
4) Turn the grenade clockwise until the post in the grenade lines up with the notch in the weapon, and fully seat it.
5) Shoulder the weapon, so that the tube extends over your shoulder. Check the area behind to see if anything will be damaged by the backblast. Remove the safety pin from the warhead.
6) **** the hammer and deactivate the safety.
7) Use the fold up iron sights or the telescopic sight to gauge the range on the target, then fire.*



*One of the RPG'7s main quirk is that it turns into the wind. The large stabilizer fins offer a lot of wind resistance, so they get pushed by the incoming wind and point the grenade into it, rather than the head of the grenade being pushed away, like most designs. This has to be considered at longer ranges.

Unloading:
RPGs are not designed to be readily unloaded, but there isn't anything actually holding the rocket in place, so it's hypothetically a matter of easing out the rocket, then removing the booster. Since it isn't sure if an RPG will be fired, this is why it's absolutely essential to leave the weapon safed and uncocked until it is certain it will be fired. Hang onto the safety pin!

Field Stripping:
How to take down the weapon for cleaning, with pictures if possible.

Design Quirks:
As said above, the RPG turns into the wind instead of being pushed by it. It's most effective within three hundred meters, though there have been cases of some shooters even using the self destruct at 900 meters to engage aircraft. It is a close quarter specialist, it's two-stage launch cutting the amount of backblast to the extent it has been fired from within buildings.


Model: SMAW
The SMAW Mk153 Mod 0 (Shoulder-launched Multipurpose Assault Weapon) is a shoulder-fired rocket launcher based on the Israeli B-300. It is accurate to 500 meters against a tank-sized target, but its primary purpose is bunker busting.

The SMAW fires 83mm rockets of various payloads, such as thermobaric, high explosive dual purpose, and high explosive anti-armor. It also has the unique feature of a spotting rifle on the right side of the launcher; the rifle fires a unique round, made from a .22 Hornet blank charge, a 7.62mm NATO crimped casing, and a 9mm tracer bullet. The spotting rifle is ballistically matched to the rocket; in other words, if the spotting rifle hits the target, the rocket will. The spotting rifle can also be replaced by the AN/PEQ-4 laser.

The SMAW has been in use since 1984 with the United States Marine Corps

Where to find:
The SMAW is a military-only weapon and cannot be legally owned by civilians. It is currently in use with the United States Marine Corps, the Republic of China (Taiwan) Marine Corps, and the Lebanese Armed Forces, making these the only suppliers of these weapons.

Complexity:
The SMAW takes some brains to work; the spotting rifle (if used) needs to be properly calibrated, and there's the obvious dangers of backblast and errant explosives that can easily kill unintended targets, such as yourself.

Size and weight:
Weight 7.67 kg (16.9 lbs). Length 759.46 mm (29.9 in.).

Action:
Single-shot

Caliber(s):
83mm rocket

Magazine:
N/A

Trigger:
Single action

Controls:
The safety is a lever on the trigger group with labels for SAFE and FIRE. The charging lever must be pulled to prevent a misfire. The launch lever must be held forward and down to allow for the trigger to be pulled. The cocking lever is on the spotting rifle and must be cocked to use it.

Loading:
Note: The SMAW should not be fired in the prone position, as the backblast will reflect off the ground and hit you and anyone nearby.

1) Check the firing mechanism safety lever and ensure it is in the "SAFE" position, and the charging lever is in the uncharged position. Check the launcher tube to ensure it is free of obstructions.
2) Remove the front-end cap of the encased rocket by rotating it 1/4 turn counterclockwise. Place the cap on the deck with the magazine facing up. Do not touch the electrical contacts.
3) Insert the encased rocket into the aft end of the rocket launcher and rotate it clockwise until it locks in place.
4) Remove the spotting rifle magazine from the front-end cap. Place the magazine in the rifle.
5) Pull the spotting rifle's cocking lever to the rear and release it.
6) Place the charging lever in the charge position.
7) Aim at the target.
8) Take the safety off.
9) Pull the trigger to fire the spotting rifle. Check the backblast area to make sure that it is clear.
10) Push the launch lever with your right thumb, then pull the trigger to fire the rocket.

Unloading:
1) Place the safety in the SAFE position.
2) Press the locking mechanism on the left side of the magazine well and remove the spotting rifle's magazine.
3) Pull the cocking lever on the spotting rifle to the rear to check that the chamber is clear.
4) Rotate the rocket counter-clockwise out the rear of the launcher.

Field Stripping:
N/A

Design Quirks:
Unique aspects of this gun.

Model: FIM-92 Stinger
The Stinger missile is the quintessential anti-aircraft missile in popular culture. It was developed by the United States as a short-range, lightweight, man-portable anti-aircraft system. To date, it has been used for almost 300 aircraft kills in four major conflicts and use with over 18 countries, including all branches of the United States military excluding the Coast Guard.

The Stinger is a Man-Portable Air-Defense System (MANPADS) that can be used by a single operator, although official procedure requires two-man teams. It uses a passive IR sensor and UV sensor to detect both the thermal energy of the target and the ultraviolet "shadow" of the target to keep it from targeting other heat sources. Compared to other MANPADS in the modern world, the Stinger missile flies faster and has a larger warhead while also remaining lighter.

Where to find:
As mentioned above, the Stinger is used in over 18 countries and every branch of the United States military except the Coast Guard. It is a popular weapon in the modern world for shooting down low-flying aircraft, though it's obviously impossible to legally acquire until after Z-Day.

Complexity:
While the actual firing is a fairly simple procedure, there's more than you might think that you can do wrong. The Stinger requires a Battery Coolant Unit (BCU) in the handguard to fire the missile, and the batteries are somewhat sensitive to abuse and need to be replaced when they run out of argon gas 45 seconds from being loaded. Without proper maintenence, a BCU will become totally unserviceable. The antenna also needs to be unfolded before firing and kept from being damaged.

Size and weight:
Weight 15.2 kg (33.5 lbs) loaded, 5.9 kg (13 lbs) unloaded. Length 1.52 m (4.8 feet)

Action:
Single shot, disposable

Caliber(s):
70mm missile

Magazine:
N/A

Trigger:
Single action

Controls:
The antenna is to the right of the missile tube and must be unfolded before firing. The BCU is inserted in the handgrip and has a 45 second lifespan. The IFF interrogator is used to identify friendly aircraft, though this will be of little use in the apocalypse as it can only properly identify military aircraft. It requires a cable plugged into the top of the interrogator, then connected to the bottom of the handgrip. The uncaging switch is on the front of the gripstock assembly and can be pushed with the left thumb. The safety and actuator device is behind the pistol grip.

Loading: How to load the firearm and make ready to fire.
Note: The Stinger should only be fired from a standing position. When firing, place your left foot forward and lean forward slightly. Do not fire at an angle greater than 65 degrees.

The BCU becomes extremely hot 3 minutes after activating and will be too hot to touch for 30 minutes. Do not discard it into dry brush, grass, or any other flammable materials. Only handle the BCU by the plastic cap on the bottom.
1) Remove the BCU receptacle cap by twisting it counterclockwise and pick up a BCU. Check that the heat indicator on the bottom of the BCU is pink and insert it into the receptacle in front of the pistol grip and turn it clockwise until it locks into place.
2) Unfold the antenna and check for damage.
3) Remove the front-end cap with your left hand.
4) Flip up the sight assembly.
5) Keep your target in the upper-range ring circle while tracking.
6) Press the safety and actuator device forward and down until it clicks.
7) For 3-5 seconds, the weapon begins to warm up. When you hear the gyro spinning, the weapon is ready.
8) Listen for the acquisition tone, then hold down the uncaging switch with your left thumb. If target acquisition is lost (the tone will get quieter), release the uncaging switch, acquire the target again, and hold the switch again. The tone should get louder and steadier.
9) Elevate the Stinger about 10 degrees to compensate for gravity and place the target in the center, left, or right reticle on the sight depending on which direction the target is moving (you want to lead the target).
10) When firing, hold the trigger and uncaging switch for three seconds after firing, then release.

Unloading:
While the Stinger is carried as a unit, the BCU must be removed after firing and the gripstock assembly and IFF interrogator are attached to another missile tube.

The BCU must be removed within 3 minutes to avoid damaging the battery receptacle. It will become extremely hot, about 400 degrees Fahrenheit, so remove it by grabbing the plastic cap on the bottom and twisting counterclockwise. Do not discard it on dry brush, grass, or other flammable materials. If the BCU is removed during the firing procedure due to a hangfire, dud, or misfire, do not point it at the skin, as high-pressure gas may continue to spray out.


Field Stripping:
Does not apply to this weapon.

Design Quirks:
Unique aspects of this gun.


Model: FGM-148 Javelin
The Javelin is a massive anti-tank guided missile launcher used by 15 countries, including the United States military. It is primarily used for destroying tanks, which it excels at, but it can also be used for destroying buildings, fortifications, and helicopters. It is a fire-and-forget weapon system that uses imaging infrared targeting to guide the missile to its target.

The Javelin has been in use since 1996, though it was first designed in 1989. It has a tandem warhead with dual shaped charges, allowing it to defeat reactive armor. While it can be fired by one person, it is usually used in a two-man team: the gunner aims and fires while the ammo bearer locates targets and watches for threats. The Javelin tube is a disposable one-shot launcher, but the Command Launch Unit (CLU) can be attached to any missile tube and reused.

Where to find:
As expected, the launcher is not only illegal for civilians, but would be horrendously expensive anyway at $40,000 for a missile and $125,000 for the CLU, coming to a total of $165,000 for a single weapon. However, it is in use with 15 different countries and is quite common in the United States military.

Complexity:
The Javelin takes a good deal of training to use. The CLU has quite a few bells and whistles to keep track of, and while it is very user-friendly, it cannot be used effectively or safely without practice and a full understanding of the system. While the "soft-launch" makes it usable from buildings, the backblast is still deadly.

Size and weight:
Weight 11.8 kg (26 lbs), 18.2 kg (49.2 lbs) with the CLU attached. Length 1.2 m (47 in.).

Action:
Single shot, disposable.

Caliber(s):
127mm tandem HEAT warhead.

Magazine:
N/A

Trigger:
Single action

Controls:
The command launch unit (CLU) is a reusable device that consists of the sighting and firing systems, and can be attached to the left side of a Javelin missile tube. The power switch is on the lower-rear corner of the left side of the CLU main housing and has positions for OFF, DAY, NIGHT, and TEST; when set to TEST, the switch is spring-loaded and snaps to NIGHT upon release.

Loading: How to load the firearm and make ready to fire.
1) Flip the CLU upside-down and remove the battery compartment cover on the bottom. Take a battery and mate the connectors in the battery compartment with the ones on the battery. Close the cover.
2) Remove the protective cover from the CLU and round interface connectors. Pull on the lanyard tab to snug the protective cover against the side of the round and CLU. Position the protective covers so they do not interfere when the CLU and round are connected.
3) Lift the CLU over the CLU Interface Connector and insert the round interface bracket into the round hooks.
4) Slide the CLU toward the latch release on the front of the latch interface assembly and press down on the CLU until it snaps into place. Rock the CLU from side to side to ensure that it is connected.
5) Flip the power switch to the NIGHT position.
6) Remove the forward end cap by pulling the wire on the locking pin up, turning the forward end cap latch release counterclockwise, and sliding the end cap off.
7) Open the lens covers.
8) Assume a firing position: sitting (cross-legged or knees bent), kneeling (down on left or both knees), standing with your elbows on a steady surface (wall, rock, etc.), or prone with your body at a 30 degree angle to the left to avoid the backblast.
9) Upon locating a target, steady the launcher and keep the target in the center of the reticle. Against a tank or truck, use the default top-attack mode. Against a helicopter or bunker/building, use the direct attack mode.
10) Squeeze and hold the seeker trigger on the left handgrip until the BCU pop is heard.
11) If necessary to switch to another attack mode, press the attack select switch on the right handgrip.
12) When a lock has been achieved on the target, squeeze the firing trigger on the right handgrip.

Unloading:
Note: While the Javelin missile cannot be unloaded, the Javelin can be restored to a carrying configuration.
1) Turn the power switch to the DAY position, wait two seconds for the flipper mirror to switch, then turn it to OFF.
2) Place the Javelin on the ground and rotate it so the handgrips of the CLU are pointing up.
3) Close the CLU lens covers.
4) Slide the forward end cap onto the front of the launcher, turn the latch release clockwise until it locks, and reinsert the locking pin.
5) Press the latch release on the latch interface assembly, then lift the CLU by the handgrips and rotate it toward the front of the launcher. Lift the CLU off and return it to where it was stored.

Field Stripping:
N/A

Design Quirks:
The Javelin has two different modes of firing: the top-attack mode causes the missile to shoot into the sky and come down on top the target, typically where the armor is weakest. The direct attack mode is used against buildings and helicopters, and the missile flies on a direct path to the target. Top-attack is the default mode, as the missile is usually fired at tanks.

Model: The MK-19 grenade launcher is capable of firing 40mm grenades at 375 rounds per minute when used on auto-fire. Upon impact, these grenades will have lethal effect to within fifty feet, and easily kill out to a hundred. A trained gunner can land accurate hits out to several hundred meters. The MK-19 gives explosive firepower with similar size and logistics to a heavy machine gun.

The MK-19 has been in service since 1967, making it a weapon designed during the Vietnam war. It replaced the hand-cranked MK-18, with nearly 35,000 having been produced for a variety of countries around the world. It can be found on light vehicles, in fixed positions and also on some helicopters.

Where to find:
Military only, so you'll only be finding these on military vehicles and at bases. If the owner still has it, don't try to take it. Even if you could buy one, a single Mk 19 and tripod is close to $14,000.

Complexity:
The Mk 19 is a big automatic weapon, making it difficult to use without prior training -- or having a manual next to you the whole time.

Size and weight:
Weight 72.5 lbs (gun only). Barrel length 16.25 in. Total length 43.1 in.

Action:
Blowback

Caliber(s):
40x53mm grenade

Magazine:
Belt fed, disintegrating links. Usually in 32 or 48-round cans.

Trigger:
Single action

Controls:
The safety is on the back of the baseplate; back for ON, forward for OFF.

Loading: How to load the firearm and make ready to fire.
1) Point the weapon in a safe direction. You do not want an accidental discharge with a grenade launcher.
2) Open the top cover of the weapon and inspect the feed tray mechanisms for blockages or damage to the movable mechanisms. Ride the bolt forward slowly and gently.
3) Slide the safety back into the ON position.
4) Pull the charging handles back and up to lock them upright.
5) Slide the ammo belt into the feeder throat.
6) Lay the first grenade across the feeder pawl.
7) Move the feed slide assembly on the bottom of the feed tray cover to the left for proper feeding.
8) Close the feed tray cover firmly and slide the safety forward into the OFF position.
9) Pull the charging handles back and push them forward to load the weapon.

Unloading:
How to unload and make safe.

Field Stripping:
How to take down the weapon for cleaning, with pictures if possible.

Design Quirks:
The 40x53mm grenades are more powerful than those in the M203 and similar hand-held grenade launchers; do NOT interchange these rounds.


M2 .50 Caliber Machine Gun

M240 Machine Gun

M249 Squad Automatic Weapon (SAW)

M60 Machine Gun




The Rules - What you should know before reading these pages and handling weapons.
Firearms - A basic guide to different types of firearms.
Accessories - The add-ons that may just give you an edge in that gunfight.
Ammunition - An overview of types of ammo and reloading.
Weapons reviews - A user-created database of reviews for various zombie-slaying implements.
Handguns, Rifles, Shotguns, Heavy Weaponry - A user-created guide to using and maintaining firearms you are likely to come across.