special operations forces » special operations weapons » m320 grenade launcher
M320 Grenade Launcher
The M320 is a 40mm grenade launcher in use with U.S. regular and special operations forces. The M320 has been introduced into the U.S. Army as a replacement for the venerable M203 launcher that has been in use for many years.
The M320 a variant of the of the Heckler and Koch AG-C/ EGLM (Enhanced Grenade Launcher Module). Designed to be used as an attachment to a rifle or carbine or as a stand alone weapon system, the M320 can fire a range of 40mm projectiles, including High Explosive, High Explosive Dual Purpose, smoke and illumination rounds. Unlike the M203, the XM320's breech opens to the sides which enables it to accommodate longer projectiles, including newer non-lethal rounds.
Features of the M320 include:
- day/night sight
- laser range finder
- side-opening breech
- double-action operation with ambidextrous safety
M320 Specifications
| weight : | 3.3 lbs (unloaded) |
| length : | 13.7 inches |
| barrel length : | 11 inches |
| rate of fire : | 5-7 rounds per minute |
| muzzle velocity : | 255 feet per second |
| range : | 150 meters (effective) 400 meters (maximum) |
| caliber : | 40x46mm SR |
M320 - Images and Further Info
A M320 configured for stand-alone operation, with buttstock fitted. U.S. Army Special Forces operating in Afghanistan have been seen with M320s in stand-alone configuration.
U.S. DoD Photo
A U.S. Army Paratrooper fires a practise round from a M320 with an extended buttstock.
U.S. Army photo by Spc. Michael J. MacLeod) (Released)
A U.S Army soldier takes aim with a XM320 mounted on a M4 Carbine. Note theXM320's leaf sights clearly visible. Unlike on the M203, which features sights that flip up atop the main weapon, the M320's sights do not interfere with the main weapon's sights.
U.S. DoD Photo
