The Blanch–Chevallier Discharger: A Shoulder-Fired Grenade Launcher for the Trenches

What is it about?

The article describes a unique, experimental, shoulder-fired, recoil-dampened grenade launcher of 1916 date, created by converting a Martini-Henry rifle. The aim was to project grenades further than hand throwing and with more accuracy than the rifle-launched rod grenade or cup launcher.

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Why is it important?

The traditional technological narrative of the First World War is one of institutional conservatism and of soldiers armed with Victorian bolt-action rifles being mown down by sophisticated quick-firing artillery and machine guns. In reality, a great deal of time, effort and money was put into devising arms and armour that would help to break the stalemate of trench warfare. Although not trialled, this piece is a reflection of that technological innovation.