I would ask why western armies (especially USA) use personal (shoulders) anti-tank launchers "for one use", like AT-4, LAW, Predator. Why they don't use "bazooka" or "rpg" style launchers, where soldier can carry more ammunition.

You can write your opinion of which style is better.

Because tanks rarely are just sitting around alone and exposed. As soon as you light a tank up it tends to draw a lot of attention and AT-4s are freakin' heavy when you're trying to shoot and scoot.

Usually (or atleast Swedish military) use the AT-4 in groups in other words several soldiers with one each shooting at one target. Its better then having one guy with say RPG that has to reload in which the tank will have spotted this soldier and taken him out. And they are cheap!

And when your done you just throw them away which will result in alot less to carry around on, when one with an RPG will have to carry it around when hes done, and if the enemy gets hold of it and ammo they can reuse it, this can't be done with an AT-4

We also use the carl gustav that can be reloaded and reused

Because it's cheaper and more effective

A ATGM like the Javelin has a reusable guidance computer that you attach to a disposable launch tube. There isn't any point in hauling around extra **** you don't need.

because of its precision in targeting!

The Norwegian Army use both the Carl Gustav recoilless cannon and the M72 LAW on infantry unit levels - perhaps it has changed now so it is one or two per platoon but we use them anyways

The Norwegian Army use both the Carl Gustav recoilless cannon and the M72 LAW on infantry unit levels - perhaps it has changed now so it is one or two per platoon but we use them anyways

We use a similar set up, but with either one or 2 M72 LAW per 10 man section. The disposable tube also protects the rocket inside, and is lighter to carry than a re-usable job. The M72 is basically just a fibreglass tube, so why not carry a few?

Yeah thats another great thing with the AT-4 (Pskott) can be thrown in dirt, water and takes alot of beating but still operates, not sure if that can be done with a RPG.

RPGs are still versatile and good. Of course it sucks to get caught in the fire that comes out the back. Saw a guy get his foot burned from an rpg.

Originally Posted by AussieNick

We use a similar set up, but with either one or 2 M72 LAW per 10 man section. The disposable tube also protects the rocket inside, and is lighter to carry than a re-usable job. The M72 is basically just a fibreglass tube, so why not carry a few?

The setup up here is 4 pr 8 man section. The M72 is a light, easy to use and robust weapon; The only thing I find negative is the poor sights, but that was changed in the mid 1990s making it so much more precise.

And so much fun you can have with it at the shooting range