What is the benefit of a single-shot, disposable anti-tank rocket/missile launcher over one that can reload?

Question

What are some of the benefits one has over the other? I've always been under the impression it would be more viable for troops to carry launchers that can be reloaded, rather than have to carry multiple launchers into combat. I can see how launchers like the Faustpatrone and the Panzerfaust were easy enough to carry and cheap enough to mass produce, but then you have the AT-4, M72 LAW, and the FGM-148 which must be discarded after use, and they're pretty expensive and the launchers are much larger and heavier than older ones. What are the benefits of these disposable launchers over those that can be reloaded like the RPG-29, SMAW, M3 Carl Gustav and PF-98?

Answer 1

The M3 Carl-Gustav actually isn't a rocket launcher, and only the tube on the FGM-148 is disposable; the CLU is reusable.



A disposable launcher's primary benefit is that they usually weigh less to begin with, and once fired and disposed, the weight can be completely removed, versus even just the reusable piece of a launcher is a significant amount of weight that still has to be lugged around. Additionally, disposable launchers are pretty much always smaller, allowing them to be more easily stored in a confined space, which can be really important for a mounted patrol or a tank crew.

Answer 2

Disposable Rocket Launcher

Answer 3

A single-shot disposable weapon can be operated by an individual rifleman with the minimum of specialized training. This deepens the defense against armor.



Re-loadable weapons are typically operated by a dedicated crew specifically trained in the use of the weapon. Because of this and the nature of the weapon itself (more sophisticated sights, longer range, more lethal warhead) the effective range, accuracy and lethality of the system are much greater than they would be with a disposable weapon whose user probably never fired one before using it for the first time in anger.



An untrained user with the AT-4/M36 could probably hit a moving target at no more than 100 to 150 meters.



A trained crew with a Carl G might be able to hit that same target at 500 meters.

Answer 4

One would assume its the convenience factor, If you have to carry the ammunition to reload it, it'll take up space of something that's needed. a disposable launcher is ideal in the fact once its done its useless, meaning it can be discarded without fear of the enemy using it against you.



Plus if you need several rounds, it means you're going against multiple armoured targets, this is a bad situation for any soldier and usually requires air-strikes, If you're on the bones of your ar5e and you have to use multiple shots, on multiple armour without air superiority, chances are you aren't coming home. and someone has just scored a launcher and several rounds.



But i'm not 100%, My only experience of anti armour is from the air.