M67 90-MM Recoilless Rifle (RCLR)
This RCLR is a breech-loaded, singleshot, man-portable, crew-served weapon. It can be used in both antitank and antipersonnel roles. It can be fired it from the ground, using the bipod or the monopod, or from the shoulder. The most stable firing position is the prone position.
The 90mm recoilless rifle, M67, is a lightweight, portable, crew-served weapon intended primarily as an antitank weapon. It can be employed in an antipersonnel role too. It is designed to be fired primarily from the ground using the bipod and monopod, but it may be fired from the shoulder. It is an air-cooled, breech-loaded, single-shot rifle that fires fixed ammunition. The rifle is equipped with a manually operated breech mechanism and a percussion-type firing mechanism. It is designed for direct firing only, and sighting equipment for this purpose is furnished with each weapon.
The 90mm rifle is classified as a flat trajectory weapon. The muzzle velocity and the weight of the projectile are the more important factors in determining the flatness of the trajectory. In all cases, however, due to the action of the force of gravity and air resistance, the trajectory of projectiles is actually a curve and not a straight line. Air resistance retards the projectile during its flight, causing the angle of fall to be greater than the angle of elevation. Therefore, the projectile reaches its maximum ordinate (highest point) closer to the point of impact than to the rifle.
The weapons squad leader is in direct command of the crew and is responsible for its equipment. He observes, adjusts, controls, and supervises the conduct of fire of the 90mm rifle. He employs the squad according to orders of the platoon leader and is responsible for properly concealing the weapon. He keeps the platoon leader informed of the status of the ammunition supply and supervises his crew's ammunition resupply.
The gunner lays and fires the 90mm rifle and is the crew leader. He makes necessary fire adjustments as called for by the squad leader. He is responsible for the maintenance of the rifle and coordinates his actions with the loader. The loader is responsible for loading the 90mm rifle and acts as gunner should the necessity arise. He secures ammunition and checks clearance of the backblast area prior to firing. He assists in the maintenance of the rifle and coordinates his movements and duties with the gunner. The ammunition bearer is responsible for securing ammunition. While not engaged in ammunition resupply, he provides security for the rifle position.
