81mm Quick Reference Guide

Date Written: 7/17/2007
Author: Chris Guska

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Despite the descriptions in the manuals regarding the implementation variations existed.  These variations were predominantly with the implementation of the M33 Percussion Primer and M6 Ignition cartridge.  Not all M43A1 and B1 rounds were equipped with fin sections capable of using the M33/M6 combination.  The older M3 cartridges stayed in service for years after the adoption of the M33/M6.

M43 M43A1 M43A1B1 Fuse Adapter Ring X X   Tab-less Fins   X X M3 Cartridge X X X M33 Percussion Primer / M6 Cartridge   X X

Essentially, the difference between the M43 round and M43a1 is the fin section.  The difference between the M43A1 and B1 is the elimination of the fuse adapter ring.  I have examples of the M43A1B1 dated as early as 1944.  Strangely, I also own examples of the M43A1 dated 1945, and as late as 1954. The production of the M43A1 did not stop with the introduction of the B1.  Many “collectors” claim that the B1 rounds, lacking the fuse adapter ring were purely postwar production.  Both examples were simultaneously produced during the war.

Below is a quick reference chart as published by the Army in the Ammunition Inspectors Guide 1944.

Basic Range table:   Min Range Max Range SHELL H.E. M43/A1/B1 100 Yards 3,300 Yards SHELL H.E. M56 300 Yards 2,655 Yards SHELL H.E. M57 300 Yards 2,475 Yards SHELL H.E. M45 100 Yards 1,175 Yards SHELL H.E. M301 300 Yards 2,200 Yards