PIAT Mark 1 Projector

PIAT (Projector Infantry Anti Tank) Mark 1 Projector. Tubular construction with a monopod clamped to the forward section, a pistol grip trigger assembly towards the rear and a shoulder piece with a rubber butt pad. Both front and rear sights fold down. Firing mechanism parts include a spigot with a fixed firing pin, sleeve bolt, main spring, tripping lever, cocking rod and guide. Overall painted light green and is fitted with a webbing rifle sling.

This Projector, Infantry, Anti-Tank, Mark I (PIAT) is of the type issued to Australian troops during the Second World War. The projector was designed as a light self cocking anti tank weapon which is fired from the shoulder and projects a bomb with considerable armour piercing effect. Four types of ammunition are used with this weapon. 1. bomb H E A T (high explosive anti-tank) colour green. 2. bomb, practice inert/ A T (anti-tank) colour black. 3. bomb, drill/ A T (anti-tank) colour black with a yellow band. 4. shot, practice/ A T (anti-tank) colour white. The name was later changed to Projector Infantry Tank Attack (PITA).