M29A1 / M259 81-mm Mortar
M29A1 / M259 81-mm Mortar
M29A1 / M259 81-mm Mortar
The M29A1 and M259 81-mm mortars are crew-served medium mortars capable of hitting targets at a greater range than the M224 60-mm mortar. Two models have been in use by Rangers. The M29A1, and the M259. The M259 is slightly lighter than the M29A1 and began replacing it in the 1980’s. The muzzle has a blast attenuator device (BAD) to deflect the blast pressure away from the crew. It also uses the same M64 mortar sight as the M244 60-mm mortar.
- Primary Function Indirect Fire
- Manufacturer United States
- Caliber 81-mm
- Length 56 in
- Weight 89 lbs (includes cannon, bipod, base plate, sight unit)
- Max Effective Range 5700 m
- Rate of fire 25 – 30 rpm (1st 1-2 min)
- Ammunition HE, WP, Smoke, Illumination
