Familiarization of the M203 Grenade Launcher
Ref: FM 23-31 (M203)
STP-19-95B24-SM-TG
SSG Christian J. Behr
1st Squad Leader
Det 1, 169th MP Co.
M203
• TASK: Familiarization of the M203
• CONDITION: Given an M203 Grenade Launcher, Classroom instruction and this presentation.
• STANDARD: Be familiar with the M203 operations, functions and capabilities.
M203 Description
• Lightweight• single-shot• breech loaded• pump action• shoulder-fired• attached to the
M16A1/A2
M203 Capabilities
• Surpress or disable armored vehicles - EXCEPT TANKS
• penetrate concrete• timber• sandbagged weapons
positions • some buidlings
• Illuminate and signal
best firing positions: standing supported & prone supported.
Leaf Sight Assembly• Sight Base
• Sight Mount Sight Elevation Adjustment
• Screw and Elevation Scale
• Windage Screw and Windage Scale
DANGER
THE 50-METER MARK ON THE LEAF SIGHT BLADE IS MARKED IN REDTO EMPHASIZE THAT THIS RANGE MUST NOT BE USED FOR ZEROING PROCEDURES. ZEROING IS EXTREMELY DANGEROUS AT 50 METERSOR LESS DUE TO FRAGMENTATION.
M203 Ammunition
• Several Fixed Type, Low-Velocity 40-mm rounds
• high-explosive• illuminating• signaling• CS• Training
WARNING
IF FIRED INTO SNOW, 40-MM ROUNDS MAY NOT HIT HARD ENOUGH TO DETONATE. IF AN UNDETONATED ROUND IS STEPPED ON
OR DRIVEN OVER, IT MAY EXPLODE. DURING TRAINING, AVOID THIS HAZARD
BY FIRING ONLY TP ROUNDS IN THE SNOW.
M203 Clearing Procedures
• Clear the M16A1/A2 as usual
• Push the release button and pull the barrel forward
• Watch to see if a round extracts
• Place the safety on SAFE
• Inspect the breech to the rear until it clicks. This cocks the weapon
• Place the safety on FIRE
M203 General Disassembly
Place each part on a mat, table, shelter half, etc. Only disassemble
the parts described here. Reassemble in reverse order.
M203 Cleaning
• Bore• Breech insert• Other parts• Safety mechanism• only use CLP IAW
environmental guidelines
M203 Inspection
• All parts-wear, damage, etc.
• Handguard
• Leaf-sight assembly
• Barrel
• Cartridge and retainers
• ***see armorer with unserviceable parts
Conduct a Function Check-M203
• Check the operation of the sears
• check safety in both the SAFE and FIRE positions
• Check the leaf sight windage adjustment screws for proper operation
• Check the barrel latch and the stop function