Milkor MGL Mk 1L
Milkor (Pty) Ltd · Machine Gun · In Production · 1983
Also known as: MGL-140, Y2 MGL, 40mm Multiple Grenade Launcher
Overview
The Milkor MGL Mk 1L is a South African six-shot, semi-automatic 40mm multiple grenade launcher built around a spring-driven revolving cylinder. The 'L' (long) variant carries an extended 140mm cylinder that accepts a wider range of 40x46mm low-velocity grenades, including HE, HE-FRAG and HEDP natures, giving a single operator the ability to place six aimed grenades on target in a few seconds out to roughly 400 metres.
Specifications
| Weight (empty) | 6450 g (227.5 oz) |
| Overall Length | 795 mm (31.30") |
| Folded Length | 715 mm (28.15") |
| Barrel Length | 305 mm (12.01") |
| Action Type | Revolving |
| Firing Mechanism | Double Action Only |
| Trigger Type | Double Action |
| Magazine Capacity | 6 rounds |
| Magazine Type | Rotary |
| Muzzle Velocity | 76 m/s (249 fps) |
| Muzzle Energy | 664 J (490 ft·lbf) |
| Effective Range | 400 m (437 yd) |
| Maximum Range | 800 m (875 yd) |
| Barrel Rifling | Right Hand |
| Frame Material | Aluminum |
| Barrel Material | Steel |
| Stock Material | Polymer |
| Finish | Black |
Calibers
- 40x46mm Grenade · primary · 40mm Low Velocity — also known as 40mm LV, 40x46mm LV, 40mm grenade
Features
- Firing modes: Semi Automatic
- Feed systems: Revolving Cylinder
- Safety mechanisms: Manual Safety, Double Action Trigger
- Features: Spring Driven Revolving Cylinder, Collapsible Stock, Picatinny Rail, Reflex Sight Compatible, Long Cylinder 140mm, Double Action Only Trigger
Variants
- Milkor MGL Mk 1S - Short Cylinder
- Milkor MGL-140 - Export Designation
- Milkor M32 MGL - Us Variant
Service history
Operators
- South African National Defence Force · adopted 1983 · as MGL
- United States Marine Corps · adopted 2006 · as M32 MGL
- French Armed Forces
Conflicts
- War in Afghanistan (2001-2021)
- Iraq War (2003-2011)
Production
Production years: 1983-present
Adopted in more than 50 countries; exact production totals across MGL variants not publicly disclosed
Origin
Country of origin: South Africa
Designer: Andries Piek
Notes
The Mk 1L differs from the shorter Mk 1S by using a longer 140mm cylinder that accommodates a wider variety of 40mm ammunition. The design is also marketed as the MGL-140 and formed the basis of the Milkor USA M32 adopted by the US Marine Corps.
Background
The original MGL was developed in South Africa in the early 1980s by engineer Andries Piek, who reportedly worked out the spring-driven cylinder mechanism from a design sketched on a matchbox, giving one soldier the firepower of a whole squad's rifle grenades.