Operation and Function of the M72 Series LAW
Procedures on preparing the M72 Series LAW for use from FM 3-23.25

Posted Tuesday, May 16, 2006

Before preparing the launcher for use, the firer inspects its overall condition.

To extend the rocket launcher:

• Remove the pull pin and rotate the rear cover downward so the front cover and adjustable sling assembly can fall free. Do not discard the sling assembly until after you fire the rocket.

Removing the Pull Pin

Removing the front cover and the adjustable sling assembly

• With your firing hand, grasp the rear sight cover and with your nonfiring hand, grasp the launcher forward of the barrel detent. Pull your hands sharply in opposite directions to extend the launcher. To ensure the launcher is fully extended and locked, try to close it.

Extending The Launcher

• To fire the rocket launcher, raise it slightly above shoulder level, rotate your body under it, and place it on your shoulder. Check the backblast area, pull the trigger arming handle to the ARM position, aim the launcher, and depress the rubber boot on the trigger bar firmly to ensure the launcher fires. If the trigger arming handle will not remain in the ARM position, the launcher is not fully extended. Pressing the trigger bar causes the firing pin to strike the primer, which ignites the black powder in the flash tube, which in turn ignites the propellant in the rocket motor.

Ensuring launcher is locked in the extended position

Firing The Launcher

DANGER:  WHEN OPERATING THE LAW, KEEP IT POINTED DOWNRANGE. ENSURE YOUR WHOLE BODY IS CLEAR OF THE MUZZLE AND REAR OF THE LAUNCHER, AND ENSURE THE BACKBLAST AREA IS CLEAR.