Description
Inert 40mm XM199 Low-Velocity Cartridge Case
Item Overview
This inert 40mm XM199 cartridge case is an original component associated with the developmental XM576E1 multiple-projectile round. The XM576E1 was a low-velocity cartridge made for close-range use with the M79 and M203 grenade launchers. This listing is for the empty aluminum case only, not a complete round.
Identification and Features
U.S. Army FM 23-31 identifies the XM199 as the green cartridge case used with the XM576E1 multiple-projectile cartridge. Military specification MIL-C-60610 covered the XM199 case and its related base-plug and propellant-cup components.
- Official type: Cartridge case
- Model: XM199
- Caliber family: 40mm low velocity
- Complete cartridge application: XM576E1 Multiple Projectile
- Material: Aluminum
- Documented color: Green
- Associated weapons: M79 and M203 grenade launchers
- Era: Vietnam War era
- Status: Inert empty cartridge case
How the XM199 Case Worked
The XM199 formed the main case of the XM576E1 cartridge and held the propelling components beneath the projectile assembly. When the cartridge was fired, controlled gas pressure drove the sabot and pellet cup through the launcher barrel while keeping recoil low enough for a shoulder-fired weapon. The complete XM576E1 carried 20 metal pellets and had a documented maximum effective range of 35 meters.
Weapon Applications
The XM576E1 cartridge was documented for both the M79 and M203 grenade launchers. The M79 was a single-shot, break-open launcher that became an important infantry weapon during the Vietnam War. The M203 was standardized later and mounted beneath an M16-series rifle, allowing the grenadier to carry a rifle and grenade launcher together. These weapons fired low-velocity ammunition and should not be confused with automatic launchers using 40x53mm high-velocity cartridges.
Historical Background
High-explosive 40mm grenades required distance to arm and were not ideal for enemies encountered at very close range. The Army developed the XM576 series to give grenadiers a non-explosive multiple-projectile option for dense vegetation, trenches, bunkers, and defensive positions. The XM576E1 used the XM199 case and a black sabot carrying 20 pellets. This developmental design helped lead to the standardized M576 Multiple Projectile cartridge.
Condition
This is an inert military-surplus XM199 cartridge case intended for collecting, study, and display. It is not a complete cartridge and does not include a projectile, sabot, pellet cup, pellets, or live propellant. It may show scratches, dents, oxidation, paint loss, discoloration, residue, faded markings, or other signs of firing, handling, age, and storage. Please check the pictures for the general condition of the item.
Ideal For
This XM199 case is well suited for collections and exhibits covering Vietnam War ammunition, experimental U.S. ordnance, and the development of 40mm grenade-launcher systems.
- 40mm ammunition collections
- M79 grenade-launcher displays
- M203 grenade-launcher displays
- Vietnam War collections
- XM576 and M576 research
- Military museums and educational exhibits
Approx length 2", Approx width 1.5", Approx height 1.5", Approx weight 0.6lbs.
Pictures are stock images of our inventory. Unless otherwise noted, you will not be receiving the exact item shown in the pictures. The pictures are representative of the item’s general condition. The item you receive might be slightly better, or worse, condition than was shown in the pictures.
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