Has anyone heard of a grenade launcher that was used during the Vietnam War, that looked like an oversized shotgun, and was used by the Navy Seals?XM-79 grenade launcher

This message has been edited. Last edited by: Nighthawk88,

Is this what you are thinking of?

It is an M-79. It launches a 40 MM grenade.

We use to nickname it "thumper" or "Blooper"

There are still replacement parts for it in the supply inventory and it is possible to still have one on the books as a unit weapon, in fact.

The M-79 is perfectly functional, but a little anachronistic now. It's a standalone weapon, as opposed to the M203 grenade launcher, which mounts on the M16/M4. Right now, the Army is developing a new 40mm grenade launcher that can do both (standalone and rifle-mounted).