AG36

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The AG36 is a single shot 40 mm x 46 mm grenade launcher for the G36 assault rifle, designed by the German weapons manufacturing company Heckler & Koch. It originally appeared as Heckler & Koch's answer to the M203 launcher for the M-16.

As in many modern weapon systems including the G36 series, extensive use of polymers and high strength aluminium in the AG36 launcher contributes to its low mass and durability. It is capable of firing almost all 40 mm x 46 mm rounds, including plastic training rounds, flexible baton rounds, CS gas, and OC (oleoresin capsicum, the same chemical used in pepper spray) gas cartridges, WP/HE (white phosphorus/high explosive) and HE grenades.

As is commonly mistaken, the "A" is not an addition to the name "G36" which is short for "Gewehr Model 36" but in fact its name is an abbreviation of the German "AnbauGranatwerfer" (ahn-bow graNAHT verfur) literally meaning "attached grenade launcher" and the 36 coming from the name of the primary weapon it was designed to enhance, the G36.

Contrary to its American counterpart, the M203, the AG36 swings out laterally for loading, allowing for the use of longer rounds when necessary, e.g. baton or flare rounds, and has a standard pistol grip available. It can also be fitted to the M16, Diemaco C7/C8, and SA80/L85A2 rifles.

Specifications

Caliber 40 mm x 46 mm
Weight 3.30 lb (1.49 kg)
Width 3.50" (89 mm)
Barrel length 11.00" (279mm)
Overall length 13.90" (353mm)

AG36

Specifications

See also