Osprey - The Bazooka

By Gordon L. Rottman

Gordon Rottman explains the life of the Bazooka and how it set the standard for anti-tank weapons. Becoming a key influence on future anti-tank tactics post war.

During the World War II most infantries armed themselves with heavy and ineffective anti-tank riffles to combat tanks. US planners decided men needed something that was lightweight and accurate. It needed to be able to knock out the average tank as well as being effective against fortified buildings and personnel in the open. Once the Bazooka was made and tested the US armed forces adopted its use instantly.