Heckler & Koch M320 GLM

History

The US Army selected the 40mm single-barrel HK M320 GLM ("Grenade Launcher Module") to replace the venerable 40mm single-barrel M203 - a substructure grenade launcher that has been in service since 1969. The M203 saw extensive service in the Vietnam War and beyond, but its design had some limitations - most notably its sights and single-action fire mode. The M320 is a development of Heckler & Koch Defense (mostly from Germany, but also based in the US), known for submachine guns, assault rifles and precision systems, and is based on their AG36 series (optical similarity between the two). Heckler & Koch was awarded a U.S. defense contract in 2006 after a stellar performance at the famed Picatinny Arsenal. Production of the M320 began in 2008, and in 2010 the U.S.

Army placed a quantitative order for 6,000 units from the U.S. taxpayer for $13. 7 million. In the competition to fulfill the U.S. Army contract, the M320 was known as the "XM320". The M320A1 designation also exists.

The M320 is a convenient, compact system that can fire different grenades depending on the mission. The basic design features a sturdy frame with an integrated shoulder, pistol grip and folding fore grip. Aside from safety features, the weapon retains only one firing mode, managed by a simple HK-style selector switch located on either side of the rear of the receiver. The double-action trigger is solid, embedded in front of the pistol grip and protected by a thick ring guard. A flip-up sight is mounted to the upper left of the receiver, when placed under the barrel of the primary weapon, away from the primary rifle function and sight (an issue noted with the M203).

The barrel is inserted into the receiver with the breech opening to the left for reloading. Its exterior design is tubular and the interior design is drawn. The M320 can be used both as a stand-alone weapon (like the Vietnam-era M40 launcher) or as a sub-weapon, and can be fitted with a carbine/assault rifle system like the M4 or M16 (like the M203). The M320's adjustable stock can be removed when paired with other weapons. The system weighs only 3.3 pounds and has an overall length of 13.7 inches, making it extremely portable in any battlefield role.

While the M320 is single-shot by design, trained grenadiers can fire 5 to 7 rounds per minute, allowing for repeated firing in tactical situations. When firing the M320, expect some recoil, albeit only a slight smoke jet, so as not to expose the gunner's position, as each projectile follows a bow trajectory.

The M320 can fire various types of US Army and NATO standard ammunition, including high-explosive (HE), smoke, lighting, training and "non-lethal" ammunition - the latter for riot/crowd control. Acceptable cartridges are 40x46mm SR caliber.

High-explosive grenades can be used to remove or kill enemy elements from cover, while smoke grenades can be used to "blind" enemies into friendly action. Flares can illuminate dark skies for a period of time, making it easier to spot friends and foes in nighttime environments.

The M320 system has a maximum range of 400 meters and an effective range of 150 meters.

Current (2019) M320 series users include Canada, Germany, Hungary, Malaysia, Netherlands, Norway, Philippines, United Kingdom and United States (Army and USMC services).

Specification

Roles

Dimensions

Performance

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