M234 launcher

The latter produces a 4 to 5 foot tear gas cloud on impact. The launcher is capable of firing from 4 to 6 projectiles per minute. The velocity is sufficiently high to prevent dodging by target individuals at effective ranges. The effective range of the projectile is 40 meters on an individual and 60 meters on groups of individuals with a maximum range of 100 meters. The main advantage to using Ring Airfoil Projectiles is that their design does not allow them be thrown back by rioters with any real effect. The M234 is no longer used by United States forces. It has been replaced by the M203 40mm grenade launcher and nonlethal ammunition.

• Name — Launcher, Projectile, 64 mm, Riot Control, M234 • Origin — United States • Type — Less-lethal Weapon • Is Ranged — yes • Service — 1978–1995 • Used By — United States • Design Date — 1973–1978 • Production Date — 1978–1987 • Cartridge — 1.25 ounce, 64 mm Ring Airfoil Projectile • Rate — 4 to 6 projectiles per minute • Velocity — 200 ft/s • Range — 40 meters individuals, 60 meters small groups • Max Range — 100 meters • Feed — Muzzle Loading

The kinetic energy projectile was designed as an incapacitant. The original design used kinetic and tear gas projectiles for use in the M234 Riot Control Launcher. The design of the kinetic energy projectile is an aerodynamic, circular tube-shaped ring airfoil munition that discharges tear gas on impact and/or uses blunt force trauma to subdue or deter a subject. The main advantage to using kinetic energy projectiles is that their design does not allow them be thrown back by rioters with any real effect.