Original Item: Only One Available. This is an original U.S. Cold War-era M72A2 Light Anti-Armor Weapon launcher tube that was partially converted for use as an M190 subcaliber training launcher and retains an M73 subcaliber insert. The set is incomplete and shows substantial service and training wear, but it remains an interesting example of the way expended M72-series launcher tubes were adapted for reusable training purposes.

Not Available For Export.

These are timeless in design, which the U.S. Military has tried to replace in the past, but was unable to find anything better than these disposable “fire and forget” launchers.

This fair example is missing the rear sight. The front sight “glass” is missing, but the frame is retained. The end cap and sling are missing unfortunately and there is heavy wear to the piece. It may have been put together from several pieces, as there is an M73 insert but the tube is still marked as an M72A2. 

The M190 subcaliber launcher is made by adding an M190 subcaliber conversion kit to an expended M72A2 LAW launcher. It is used to fire the M73 subcaliber (35-mm) rocket. This 35-mm rocket is shorter and lighter than the LAW's 66-mm tactical rocket. It simulates the tactical rocket's smoke and flight trajectory, but with less noise and backblast. The expended launcher is likely to wear out before the subcaliber inner tube does. When this happens, the inner tube can be transferred to another expended launcher. The M190 subcaliber launcher can be used in all training phases, from a fixed firing line to simulated tactical situations such as a squad live-fire exercise.

The LAW subcaliber training device operates the same as an M72A2/A3 LAW. After the M190 has been loaded, it may remain closed, or it can be extended and fired. Either way, the procedures are the same as those for the LAW.

The side of the launcher is faintly stamped:

ROCKET HE 66 MM ANTITANK M72A2 W/COUPLER
…18 R … 72
OPERATING AND STORAGE TEMP.
-40F TO +140F
LIMITED LIGHT SIGHT

The tube is also stenciled with 3. Some of the rubber pieces are broken or close to breaking.

The combination of the M72A2-marked launcher tube, retained M73 subcaliber insert, partial M190 conversion, permanent deactivation cut, original sight frame, faded operating markings, and extensive training wear makes this a particularly interesting Cold War instructional piece. The missing rear sight, absent front sight element, missing sling and end cap, deteriorated rubber components, and incomplete conversion are the principal condition issues, while the surviving markings and insert clearly document its association with the M72/M190 training system.

Totally inert, cannot be converted to an explosive device, not available for export. This item is completely legal within the USA. International Military Antiques, Inc observes all Federal, State and Local laws. Everything for sale on ima-usa.com is completely legal to own, trade, transport and sell within the United States of America.

All deactivated ordnance sold by IMA, Inc is engineered to be inoperable according to guidelines provided by the US Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (BATF).