Carl-Gustav M3 (M1948)

History

The Carl Gustav recoilless rifle, in use for over six decades, is a highly popular weapon among standard military and special forces. Originally introduced in Sweden in 1948, it has earned a reputation for its accuracy, impressive range, and firepower. The name "Carl Gustav" is derived from the Swedish manufacturing plant, Carl Gustafs Stads Gevarsfaktori, which is now owned by Bofors. Unlike its contemporaries like the Bazooka or Panzerschreck, the Carl Gustav stands out due to its rifled barrel design, enabling stabilized ammunition without the need for spring-loaded fins, resulting in enhanced range and firepower.

Since its inception, the Carl Gustav has become a significant offensive weapon globally, even being manufactured under license in Japan. It has gone through various iterations, with the M1 in 1948, M2 in 1964, and M3 in 1991, which reduced weight by replacing internal steel components. Special forces, including units under the United States Special Operations Command (USSOCOM), hold a particular fondness for this rifle. It can fire a variety of ammunition types, except primary anti-tank rounds, making it versatile for different operational needs.

The rifle can be operated by a single person, but optimal use requires a two-member crew. Additional enhancements like optical, laser rangefinder, and image intensifier sights can be added to tailor the weapon to specific mission requirements. Reloading is accomplished through a hinged breech on the side of the tube. The Carl Gustav comes equipped with features such as a pistol grip, foregrip, shoulder strap, optional bipod, and standard iron sights, making it a well-rounded and highly regarded weapon in military arsenals worldwide.

Specification

Base

Year of Service: 1948

Origins: Sweden

Categories: Shoulder-mounted recoilless utility rifle

Manufacturers: Bofors Anti-Armor AB, Saab Bofors Dynamics Sweden / Sumitomo Heavy Industries Japan

Operators: Australia; Austria; Brazil; Botswana; Cambodia; Canada; Chile; Czech Republic; Czechoslovakia; Denmark; Estonia; Germany; Greece; India; Indonesia; Iraq; Ireland; Israel; Japan; Jordan; Lithuania; Malaysia; Myanmar; Nepal; Netherlands; New Zealand; Norway; Peru; Poland; Portugal; Singapore; South Korea; Sweden; Thailand; Turkey; United Kingdom; Zambia; United States

ROLLING

Anti-Tank/Anti-Tank/Anti-Material

Designed for long-range engagement and defeating armored/enemy tanks.

Special Forces

The quality of this weapon has proven its value to Special Forces who need a versatile and reliable solution to the rigors of special operations.

Dimensions and Weight

Overall Length: 1,130 mm (44.49 inches)

Barrel length: 1,130 mm (44. 49 inches)

Cured weight: 18.74 lbs (8.50 kg)

Attractions: Iron sights; 3x optical.

CARTRIDGE & FEED

Caliber(s): 84x246mm R

Rounds / Feed: Single-Shot; Reusable Launch Tube

PERFORMANCE

Rate-of-Fire: 6 rds/min

Muzzle Velocity: 787 ft/sec (240 m/sec)

VARIANTS

M2 - Appeared in 1964; "improved" M1 model.

M3 - Appeared in 1991; reduced overall weight; alloy/plastic construction replacing steel components; reinforced outer sleeve.

M3 MAAWS - US Special Forces Designation of Carl Gustav M3 model.

Panzerfaust Carl Gustaf / Leuchtbuchse 84mm - German designation.

Sumitomo FT-84 - Japanese license-production Carl Gustav designation.