Description
Product Overview
This is a newly manufactured 81mm U.S.G.I. firing pin for the M29 and M29A1 mortar system, built specifically for live-fire applications and produced to meet original U.S. arsenal specifications. Machined from hardened 420 stainless steel and heat-treated to military standards, this firing pin offers the durability, strength, and reliability required for sustained operational use.
The only functional difference between these firing pins and extremely rare New Old Stock (NOS) originals is the drive configuration. While original examples used a hex (Allen) drive, this version features a slotted (flathead) drive for improved serviceability with commonly available tools. All critical dimensions, geometry, and engagement surfaces remain true to the original military specification.
Historical Significance
The U.S. M29 81mm mortar, introduced in the early 1950s as a successor to the WWII-era M1, became the standard medium infantry mortar of the U.S. military through the Cold War, Korean War, and Vietnam War. Derived from the proven French Brandt lineage but refined for American production and doctrine, the M29 and later M29A1 variants delivered reliable, sustained indirect fire support at the battalion level.
At the core of the M29 system’s reliability is the firing mechanism housed within the mortar cup. The firing pin is a critical component that initiates primer ignition upon round drop. Proper hardness, dimensional accuracy, and impact geometry are essential for safe and consistent live-fire performance. As original surplus components have become scarce and often worn beyond service limits, properly manufactured replacement parts are essential for maintaining operational M29 systems.
Materials & Manufacturing
This firing pin is precision-machined from 420 stainless steel, selected for its combination of:
- High strength and wear resistance
- Corrosion resistance
- Suitability for heat treatment
After machining, each unit is heat-treated to Arsenal specification, ensuring the correct hardness profile for repeated impact use while maintaining structural integrity. The result is a firing pin capable of withstanding sustained live-fire operation.
Design Notes
- Built to original U.S.G.I. dimensional standards
- Heat-treated to military specification
- Slotted (flat head) drive replaces the original hex drive
- Fully compatible with M29 mortar systems
- Intended for live-fire use
The slotted drive offers easier field servicing without altering the mechanical function or external profile of the installed firing pin.
Key Features
- New manufacture 81mm U.S.G.I. firing pin
- For M29 mortar systems
- Live fire rated
- Machined from hardened 420 stainless steel
- Heat-treated to Arsenal specification
- Slotted drive configuration
- Precision-machined to military tolerances
- Direct replacement for worn or damaged original components
Why Choose This M29 Firing Pin?
With original NOS firing pins becoming increasingly rare and often unsuitable for operational use due to age or wear, this newly manufactured replacement offers a dependable solution for collectors, restorers, and operators maintaining functional M29 mortar systems.
It preserves the historical integrity of the U.S. 81mm mortar platform while incorporating modern manufacturing consistency and material quality—ensuring reliability in live-fire applications.
Order Information
If you are restoring or maintaining an operational 81mm M29 mortar, this hardened, arsenal-spec firing pin is a critical component for consistent operation. Built to last and engineered for performance, it ensures your system remains mission-capable.
