Original Item: Only one available. Deactivated in accordance with BATF guidance to make this a non-functional non-firing display launcher.

The Projector, Infantry, Anti Tank (PIAT) was a British anti-tank weapon developed during the Second World War. The PIAT was designed in response to the British Army's need for a more effective hand-held infantry anti-tank weapon. It consisted of a steel tube, a trigger mechanism and firing spring, and was based on the spigot mortar system; instead of using a propellant to directly fire a round, the spring was cocked and tightened. When the trigger was pulled, it released the spring that pushed the spigot forward into the rear of the bomb. This detonated the propellant in the bomb itself, which was then thrown forward off the spigot. It possessed an effective range of approximately 100 yards (90 m).

This system meant that the PIAT had several advantages, which included a lack of muzzle smoke to reveal the position of the user, the ability to fire it from inside buildings, and an inexpensive barrel. The PIAT entered service in 1943, and was first used during the Allied invasion of Sicily that year; it remained in use with British and Commonwealth forces until the early 1950s, when it was replaced by the American bazooka. A large number of PIATs were supplied to the Soviet Union through Lend Lease, and it was also used by the French resistance and the Polish Underground. The Israeli Haganah used PIATs during the 1948 Arab-Israeli War. Six members of the British and Commonwealth armed forces received Victoria Crosses whilst using the PIAT in combat.

We believe this PIAT to be WWII production. It is in very good condition, deactivated to BATF specifications to make it totally inert and non-firing. The front and rear sight assemblies are fully functional, with the more accurate level sight on the rear complete and easily adjustable, which still has the bubble level, and it is actually still functional! It is marked with serial number IC/A 59047 on the front by the rocket retainer / locating guides.

The launcher still has the original WWII issue paint, which has now matured to give it a lovely look. It even still has the white stripe along the top! Many of these were stripped and repainted with an ugly "Christmas tree green" post war, but this one was not! There are also some areas where the original red primer coat can still be seen where the paint has chipped. The original chain for the cork plug is present, with the cork itself missing. The original monopod is present and in good shape with original paint, and the launcher still has the insert in the front for the smaller SHOT, Practice/A.T. practice rounds, which had a much smaller diameter.

Once a common find among collectors, PIATs in excellent condition such as this one are very difficult to find in today's military collectors market, especially with all the accessories! Ready to display!