HK 79
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HK 79 Granatenwerfer | |
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Type | Grenade launcher |
Place of origin | Germany |
Service history | |
In service | Germany |
Used by | Germany, Norway, others. |
Production history | |
Designer | Heckler & Koch |
Manufacturer | Heckler & Koch |
Specifications | |
Weight | +1.67 kg (+3.68 lbs.) |
Length | 350 mm (13.78 inches) |
Barrel length | 280 mm (11.02 inches). |
Width | 68 mm (2.68 inches). |
Height | 145 mm (5.71 inches). |
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Cartridge | 40 x 46 mm |
The Heckler & Koch HK 79 Granatenwerfer is a 40 x 46mm breech-loading underbarrel grenade launcher based on the HK 69 that is similar to the US M203. It was a proprietary weapon designed to replace the forend of any Heckler & Koch rifle without the use of tools. Unlike the M203, the HK 79 is loaded or unloaded by swinging the rear of the launcher tube ventrally (or downwards), allowing the use of long shells.
The Diehl DM-41 HE-Frag Shell is the Bundeswehr's standard-issue grenade shell for use with this weapon.
It is still in use with the German Bundeswehr although it will gradually be replaced by the AG36.