When should the bore of the M120 be swabbed?

Swabbing the bore of the M120 mortar is crucial for maintaining its operational efficiency and safety. The recommended practice is to swab the bore after every 10 rounds, after each fire mission, and also after any misfire incident.

This procedure is essential because it removes any residue and buildup of propellant, carbon, and other materials that can accumulate within the bore due to firing. If left unaddressed, this buildup can lead to obstructions, which in turn can cause malfunctions, misfires, or even a dangerous situation where the weapon cannot function properly when needed. By adhering to this practice, operators ensure the reliability and longevity of the mortar system, contributing to overall battlefield effectiveness.

In addition to every 10 rounds, swabbing after a fire mission helps reset the weapon system for consistent performance during subsequent uses. Finally, conducting this procedure after a misfire is critical to ensure that any unburned propellant or debris does not pose a safety risk or affect subsequent firings.