Army 81mm medium mortar – firing (2) – (US)

Description

During World War II, the M1 81mm mortar was the standard medium mortar used by the U.S. Army and Marine Corps. Based on a French design by Edgar Brandt, it was officially adopted in 1935 and remained in service until the 1950s.

The M1 mortar was a smoothbore, muzzle-loading weapon, capable of firing high-explosive, smoke, and illumination rounds. It had a maximum range of approximately 3,000 metres (3,300 yards) and a sustained rate of fire of 18 rounds per minute, making it highly effective for indirect fire support. The weapon was operated by an eight-man crew, including a gunner, assistant gunner, and ammunition bearers.

U.S. forces deployed the M1 mortar in Europe and the Pacific, using it to suppress enemy positions, disrupt troop movements, and provide defensive fire. It was particularly valuable in jungle warfare, where its portability allowed troops to engage concealed enemy forces.

Despite its weight of 136 pounds (62 kg), the M1 mortar was reliable and remained a key asset throughout the war. Its design influenced later mortar systems, including the M29, which replaced it in the 1950s. The M1’s effectiveness ensured its legacy in modern military tactics.

• Model: Army 81mm medium mortar
• Country/Army: US
• Dimension (mm) (WxLxH): 87 x 197 x 43
• Material: UV Cured resin
• Original Designer: W3 Wargaming
• These models are designed for modellers and collectors. They are not toys and are not suitable for children.
• Model supplied unassembled and unpainted. Additional finishing may be required during assembly.
• Finished colour of the product may vary from images shown.
• Photos and dimensions are at 28mm unless noted otherwise.
• All dimensions are complete with weapons unless otherwise stated.
• Other scales and dimensions may be available upon request.
• Models supplied at scales smaller than 20mm may be an alternative design more suitable for small scale prints. These are designed by Bergman or TigerAce1945