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The Army Is Bringing Back a 70-Year-Old Gun for New Fights

The United States Army will soon begin distributing a weapon system introduced in 1946. The M3 Carl Gustav rocket launcher will bolster the firepower of rifle platoons, giving them a much-needed edge. Developed by Bofors (now Saab), the Carl Gustav is a lightweight, man-portable recoilless rifle. Recoilless rifles are like a cross between an artillery…

The United States Army will soon begin distributing a weapon system introduced in 1946. The M3 Carl Gustav rocket launcher will bolster the firepower of rifle platoons, giving them a much-needed edge.

Developed by Bofors (now Saab), the Carl Gustav is a lightweight, man-portable recoilless rifle. Recoilless rifles are like a cross between an artillery gun and a bazooka: While they have propellant at the base of the projectile like a rocket, the propellant doesn't burn beyond the barrel, meaning the projectile flies unpowered like a bullet or artillery shell. Unlike artillery, propellant gasses are directed backwards, counteracting the weapon's recoil and making it "recoilless". The weapon is referred to as a "rifle" due to the spiral rifling in the barrel, which stabilizes the projectile. 

via www.popularmechanics.com

Rangers and SOF have been toting the Carl Gustav for years, but now each rifle platoon in IBCTs will have one issued.

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Responses to “The Army Is Bringing Back a 70-Year-Old Gun for New Fights”

  1. SFC Dunlap 173d RVN

    Fabulous choice, best thing since the 90mm Recoiless Rifle. The projectile choices with the Gustav allow for the widest choice relative to tactical need(s). Much applause.

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  2. JoshO

    Excellent, I always thought it would make more sense to carry a launcher like the Gustav with shells or rockets to reload than multiple bulky disposable launchers like the AT-4.

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  3. Joey Jo Jo Jr.

    An off-the-shelf, non-developmental weapons system that’s combat proven?
    Nah, we can’t adopt systems like that. Where are all the joint service shoot offs, congressional meddling, contractor protests and lawsuits, and half-informed media exposes?
    All those things are past us? Now, on to similar adoptions of combat-proven pistols and carbines… nah, that’s just the booze talking.

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