Original German WWII 5cm Display Mortar – Leichter Granatwerfer 36 Original Items

Original Item: One-Only Available. Totally non-functional and inert having been demilled according to specifications outlined by the BATF (Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives).

This is something you don’t see every day, and is the only one that we have ever had. The 5 cm Leichter Granatwerfer 36 (lighter grenade launcher), is a German 5cm light mortar that saw service in early World War II. Also known by the designation 5 cm leGrW 36, it was developed by Rheinmetall-Borsig and put into service in 1936. As with most small caliber mortars, it was intended as a long range grenade launcher, having greater accuracy than rifle-launched grenades. It was used to attack small targets that were beyond the range of a thrown hand grenade. It was lightweight and easily transported, making it a great option for increasing the range and firepower of infantry.

However, as with many early-war German weapons, it was somewhat over-engineered. As originally issued, it came with a complex optical sight, which was done away with in 1938. Production was then stopped in 1941, due to the 5 cm leGrW 36 being too small for the intended role. The shells it fired were not powerful enough, and the range was limited. After this it was used mainly by second line troops until the end of the war.

As with many mounts and complicated weapons, different parts of this Grenatwerfer 36 were made by different contractors. The mortar tube proper is marked with the serial number and various other codes and dates:

R11164

Sg5758R | 516RRF | 2082 KUKA 1940

KUKA stands for “Keller und Knappich Augsburg”, also known as Keller & Knappich GmbH (KUKA), Augsburg, a maker of small arms and vehicle parts. They later produced items under code baa but that was not found on this tube, possibly because the tube itself was made before that designation was in use.

The level, elevation and traversal mechanism is marked:

FI2082 bcd

41

The code bcd indicates Gulstoff-Werke, Werk Weimar, a maker of small arms and components for artillery.

The base plate is marked with the serial number, maker code, and date:

Bp11164

ggc 41

The Code ggc is for F. Komnick & Söhne GmbH, Elbing/Gau Westpreussen, which also made parts for the boat-building industry.

Overall this mortar is in great shape for an item that was in service for as many years at it was. The markings are clear, and the mortar bears waffenampt proofs throughout. The original bubble levels sadly are not intact, but the rest of the traverse and elevation mechanism works great. The leveling knobs are both functional, and the firing trigger still moves back and forth. The cleaning rod is present, but unfortunately the cleaning rod brush is missing, and the lid for the cleaning rod container is also missing.

This display mortar would be perfect for either a collection, or use in reenactment. Very rarely seen, so this will not last long!