Figure 2-64.--Rearsight assembly.
GRENADE LAUNCHER
using the proper type and grade. Check the launcher to
be sure it is properly cleaned. Also inspect it for
The M79 grenade launcher (fig. 2-61) is a break-
malfunctions and other defects.
open, single-shot weapon. It is breech loaded and
chambered for a 40-mm metallic cartridge case with
LOADING.--Point the muzzle of the launcher at
internal primer. Cartridges used with the M79 grenade
the ground and clear the area of all personnel.
launcher are shown in figure 2-62.
Move the barrel locking latch all the way to the right
and breakopenthe breech. If the safety is not already on
Controls of the M79 Grenade
SAFE, this procedure will cause it to move to SAFE,
Launcher
provided that the barrel locking latch is moved to its full
limit of travel.
The safety (fig. 2-63) located just behind the barrel
locking latch. It is in the SAFE position when pulled all
Insert the projectile portion of the ammunition into
the chamber opening (fig. 2-65) and push the complete
the way back and in the FIRING position when pushed
round forward into the chamber until the extractor
all the way forward.
contacts the rim of the cartridge case. Close the breech.
The barrel locking latch (fig. 2-63), when pushed all
the way to the right, permits the breech end of the barrel
FIRING. --Before you fire the launcher, you must
to be swung up into the OPEN position. The grenade
be in either a standing or prone position. In the standing
launcher cocks as it opens.
position, place the butt against your shoulder. In the
The trigger guard (fig. 2-63) is shown in lowered
position. It can be released for setting to one side or the
other by pushing back the cylindrical housing at the
front. This makes it possible for a person wearing heavy
gloves or mittens to fire the grenade launcher. The
sights are shown in figure 2-64.
Operating the M79 Grenade Launcher
Use the following procedures to load and fire the
M79 grenade launcher.
PREPARATION FOR FIRING.--Check the
bore to be sure it is free of foreign matter or
Figure 2-65.--Loading the M79 grenade launcher.
obstructions. Check all ammunition to be sure you are
2-33