Imperial German Granatenwerfer 16 Trench Projectile Launcher

Granatenwerfer 16 Trench Projectile Launcher

Retains black painted finish mixing with a light age patina; base has "Granatenwerfer 16" maker's data plate, though the maker portion is worn to being illegible.  Elevation adjustment works smoothly, The Granatenwerfer due to its unique design is a non-firearm in the eyes of Federal regulations, and no FFL is required.  

The Granatenwerfer 16 was a compact light mortar developed by the German Army for use in the static conditions of trench warfare. Introduced in 1916, this smoothbore, cup‑type launcher fired fin‑stabilized bombs using a propelling cartridge, delivering high‑angle fire at short ranges—typically under 400 meters. The weapon’s relatively light weight and simple, sturdy design allowed small infantry detachments to operate it close to the front line, lobbing explosive or gas projectiles into enemy trenches and obstacles with rapid accuracy.

Compared to earlier heavy trench mortars such as the 7.58 cm Minenwerfer, the Granatenwerfer 16 offered greater mobility and a faster rate of fire. Its tactical function paralleled that of British 2‑inch and French V.B. rifle grenade systems, which were also designed to saturate enemy positions that could not be reached by direct rifle fire. The German launcher’s efficiency in delivering sudden, localized bombardments made it a vital support weapon in assault and defensive operations, bridging the gap between hand grenades and heavier artillery throughout the latter half of the war.

$600 - $800