M-4 Commando Mortar
The M-4 Commando Mortar also known as a "patrol mortar" is a lightweight 60 mm commando mortar manufactured by Denel Land Systems.[1]
Description
As with other mortars of this type it is intended for rapid use over short ranges as a fire support weapon. It has a lanyard operated trigger mechanism in the breech which allows it to be carried loaded with a bomb, unlike other mortars that have fixed firing pins. The lack of a bipod means it is not as accurate as a conventional mortar and is unsuitable for sustained fire use. The sighting system incorporated in the handle consists of a pair of curved spirit levels one to indicate that it upright in the lateral plane and the other indicates the range with a charge table. Beta lights illuminate the sight for night use.[2]
Ammunition
It uses the M-61 series of bombs in high explosive, smoke, illumination and practice versions.[2]
Users
Specifications
- Type: Muzzle loading mortar
- Calibre: 60 mm
- Mass: Total 7.2 kg - Barrel 3.2 kg - Breech 0.9 kg - Baseplate 1.9 kg - Sight/handle - 1.1 kg
- Barrel length: 650 mm
- Traverse: 300 mil
- Elevation: 710 to 1510 mil
- Muzzle velocity: 171 m/s
- Range: 100 m minimum - 2100 m maximum
References
- ↑ "Denel Land Systems Infantry Weapons - M4 60". Retrieved 16 June 2012.
- 1 2 3 4 Heitman, Helmoed-Römer (1988). Krygstuig van Suid Afrika. Cape Town: Struik. pp. 114–115. ISBN 086977638X.
- ↑ http://www.aerospace-index.com/images/denel/denelnewslettersept06.pdf