This item is offered as a pre-order production run. Production will begin once a minimum of 20 pre-orders has been secured, making this a limited and highly controlled manufacturing opportunity for serious collectors and operators.
Product Overview
The New Made 40mm M79 Grenade Launcher is a precision-built reproduction of one of the most iconic infantry support weapons of the 20th century. Manufactured to faithfully replicate the original U.S. military design, this launcher is intended for live-fire applications and is transferred as a destructive device, requiring all applicable federal and state compliance.
Commonly known as the “Thumper,” the M79 is a single-shot, break-action 40mm grenade launcher engineered for simplicity, reliability, and accuracy. This newly manufactured example preserves the original form, function, and handling characteristics while benefiting from modern production methods and material consistency.
Historical Significance
The M79 Grenade Launcher was developed in the late 1950s and formally adopted by the U.S. military in 1960, following extensive research into improving infantry explosive firepower beyond traditional rifle grenades. It was designed to provide a dedicated platform capable of delivering low-velocity 40mm munitions with greater accuracy and range.
The M79 saw widespread use during the Vietnam War, where it became a standard-issue weapon for designated grenadiers at the squad level. Its ability to deliver high-explosive, smoke, illumination, and less-lethal munitions made it an exceptionally versatile tool in both jungle and urban environments.
Despite later being supplemented by under-barrel systems such as the M203, the M79 remained in service due to its superior accuracy, reliability, and ability to fire specialized or longer munitions. It continues to see limited use in modern roles where precision and stand-off capability are required.
Design & Function
The M79 is built around a break-open, single-shot action, allowing the operator to load and fire a wide range of 40mm low-velocity ammunition. Its simple mechanical design contributes to:
- Exceptional reliability under field conditions
- Ease of maintenance and operation
- Consistent and accurate projectile delivery
The launcher’s shoulder-fired configuration and ergonomic layout make it highly controllable and effective for both direct and indirect fire applications.
Modern Manufacturing
This newly manufactured M79 is produced using modern machining techniques to ensure:
- Consistent dimensional accuracy
- Reliable function with live-fire ammunition
- Structural integrity under repeated use
- Faithful reproduction of original military specifications
While built with modern processes, the launcher maintains the classic appearance and handling characteristics that define the original M79 platform.
Legal Classification
This item is classified as a Destructive Device (DD) under federal law and is transferred accordingly. All applicable paperwork, approvals, and compliance requirements must be met prior to transfer.
Key Features
- New manufacture 40mm M79 grenade launcher
- Live-fire capable platform
- Break-action, single-shot design
- Chambered for 40mm low-velocity ammunition
- Faithful reproduction of original U.S. military configuration
- Durable construction with modern manufacturing precision
- Transferred as a Destructive Device
Why Choose the M79?
The M79 remains one of the most recognizable and respected grenade launchers ever fielded. Its combination of simplicity, effectiveness, and historical significance makes it a standout addition for collectors, enthusiasts, and operators seeking an authentic and functional piece of military history.
Pictures are stock images of our inventory. Unless otherwise noted, you will not be receiving the exact item shown in the pictures. The pictures are representative of the item's general condition. The item you receive might be slightly better, or worse, condition than was shown in the pictures.
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