Description
Item Overview
This new-made 60mm mortar baseplate is a modern steel reproduction for the U.S. M2 mortar and the M19 mortar when used with the conventional M5 mount. It is a practical replacement for an original baseplate that is missing, damaged, or too worn for a complete restoration.
The baseplate forms the foundation of the mounted mortar system. Its center socket receives the ball-shaped base cap at the bottom of the mortar tube. The broad steel plate helps support the mortar and spreads firing forces into the ground.
Identification and Features
- Item: 60mm mortar baseplate
- Compatible Systems: U.S. M2 mortar and M19 mortar with M5 mount
- Material: Modern steel
- Manufacture: New-made reproduction
- Condition: New
- Included: One baseplate
This is a newly manufactured reproduction and not original U.S. military surplus. The mortar tube, bipod, sight, and other components are not included.
Historical Background
The M2 60mm mortar became a standard light infantry support weapon for the United States during World War II. Its high-angle fire allowed mortar crews to reach targets hidden behind walls, hills, trenches, and other cover.
The M2 was widely used during World War II and remained in service during the Korean and Vietnam War eras. Its simple design, light weight, and reliable operation made it an important support weapon for infantry units.
The M2 used a fixed firing pin and was fired by dropping a mortar round into the tube. The M19 was developed as a lighter and more flexible 60mm mortar. It could be drop-fired or fired with its trigger lever.
The M19 could be used in a handheld role with its small M1 baseplate. It could also be installed on the conventional M5 mount used with the M2 system. The M5 configuration added a bipod, sight, and full-size baseplate for greater stability and control.
Importance of the Baseplate
The baseplate was a key part of the complete mounted mortar system. It supported the bottom of the mortar and helped transfer firing forces into the ground. Without the proper baseplate, an M2 or M5-mounted M19 display is incomplete.
Original baseplates may be missing, damaged, repaired, or heavily worn after decades of military service and storage. This modern steel reproduction provides a clean replacement for completing a historic mortar restoration or display.
Condition
This baseplate is newly manufactured from modern steel. It may have minor marks from production, handling, or storage. These marks are normal for a newly made military-style component and do not take away from its restoration or display value.
Ideal For
- M2 mortar restorations
- M19 mortars configured with the M5 mount
- Military museums
- World War II displays
- Korean War and Vietnam War collections
- Historic weapons exhibits
- Film and educational displays
- Collectors completing a 60mm mortar system
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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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