Pallad wz. 1974 (Palladium)

History

During the Cold War, Poland's military industry diverged from the Soviet Union's path, establishing Tarnow Mechanical Works in 1917 for licensed foreign firearm production. While the Soviet Army embraced under-barrel grenade launchers, the Polish Army pursued an independent solution – the Pallad wz. 1974. This locally developed weapon, introduced in 1974, was designed as an attachment for the AKM assault rifle, using 40x47mm grenades and featuring a unique pistol grip and foldable shoulder rest.

The Pallad wz. 1974, stemming from design work between 1968 and 1970, was a significant achievement. Its role as a frontline weapon persisted, with continued utility even in 2015. A subsequent improved model, the Pallard D wz. 1983, emerged. Notably, surplus Pallad launchers from the Polish army found a new home in the Lithuanian army, underscoring their enduring value and strategic significance.

Specification

BASIC

Years of Service: 1974

Origin: Poland

Manufacturer: Zaklady Mechaniczne Tarnow Poland

Carrier: Lithuania; Poland

Roles

Fire Support

Ability to suppress enemy elements at a distance using direct or indirect fire.

Dimensions and Weight

Overall Length: 324mm (12.76 inches)

Barrel length: 324mm (12.76 inches)

Cured weight: 2.76 lbs (1.25 kg)

Attractions: Gap;Flyer

Action: Single shot; reusable

Cartridges and Paper Feeds

Caliber: 40x47mm

Circle/Feed: Single shot; reusable

POWER

Maximum efficiency. Arrived: 1,400 feet (427 m | 467 m)

Rate of fire: 6 Number of revolutions

Mile speed: 256 ft/s (78m/s)

VARIANTS

Pallad GL - Name of the base series wz.

1974 "Pallad" - base model designation wz.

1983 "Pallad D" - Standalone version with stock and pistol grip.