Error creating thumbnail: File missing Join our Discord!
If you have been locked out of your account you can request a password reset here.

Platoon: Difference between revisions

From Internet Movie Firearms Database - Guns in Movies, TV and Video Games
Jump to navigation Jump to search
 
(37 intermediate revisions by 9 users not shown)
Line 1: Line 1:
[[Image:PlatoonMoviePoster.jpg|thumb|right|300px|''Platoon'' (1986)]]


'''''Platoon''''' is a 1986 Vietnam War film directed by [[Oliver Stone]], who based the film on his own experiences as a combat infantryman in both the 1st Cavalry Division and the 25th Infantry Division. The film follows a rifle platoon in Bravo Company, 22nd Infantry Regiment, 25th Infantry Division, primarily through the eyes of Private Chris Taylor ([[Charlie Sheen]]), a young idealistic soldier on his first tour of duty. Throughout the film, Taylor experiences the conflict between two competing senior N.C.O's - the brave and compassionate Staff Sergeant Elias ([[Willem Dafoe]]) and hardened, ruthless Staff Sergeant Robert Barnes ([[Tom Berenger]]). The film is notable for its serious depiction of soldiers fighting the war, and for being the first movie for which the actors were put through a "boot camp" (organized by technical adviser and Vietnam veteran [[Dale Dye]]) to gain experience on proper weapons handling and the day-to-day existence of a soldier fighting in Vietnam. Released to widespread critical acclaim, the film was nominated for eight Academy Awards, winning four, including [[:Category:Academy Award Best Picture|Best Picture]] and Best Director. While the Vietnam War had been portrayed or referenced in several films prior, the success of ''Platoon'' helped usher in a new era of more serious and realistic depictions of the conflict.  Among the films of this era would include ''[[Full Metal Jacket]]'' and ''[[Hamburger Hill]]'' (both released in 1987), ''[[BAT*21]]'' (1988) as well as ''[[The Iron Triangle]]'' and ''[[The Siege of Firebase Gloria]]'' (both released in 1989). ''Platoon'' was also the first in Stone's unofficial "trilogy" of Vietnam War-themed films which included 1989's ''[[Born on the Fourth of July]]'' and 1993's ''[[Heaven & Earth]]''.
{{Infobox Movie
|name = Platoon
|picture = PlatoonMoviePoster.jpg
|caption = ''Movie Poster''
|country = [[Image:USA.jpg|25px]] United States
|director =  [[Oliver Stone]]
|date= 1986
|language = English<br>Vietnamese
|studio= Hemdale Film Corporation
|distributor= Orion Pictures
|character1=Private First Class Chris Taylor
|actor1=[[Charlie Sheen]]
|character2=Staff Sergeant Bob Barnes
|actor2=[[Tom Berenger]]
|character3=Sergeant Elias
|actor3=[[Willem Dafoe]]
|character4=Sergeant Red O'Neill
|actor4=[[John C. McGinley]]
|character5=King
|actor5=[[Keith David]]
|character6=Rhah
|actor6=[[Francesco Quinn]]
|character7=Bunny
|actor7=[[Kevin Dillon]]
|character8=Lieutenant Wolfe
|actor8=[[Mark Moses]]
|character9=Lerner
|actor9=[[Johnny Depp]]
|character10=Big Harold
|actor10=[[Forest Whitaker]]
}}
 
'''''Platoon''''' is a 1986 Vietnam War film written and directed by [[Oliver Stone]], who based his screenplay upon his own experiences as a combat infantryman in both the 1st Cavalry Division and the 25th Infantry Division. The film follows a rifle platoon in Bravo Company, 22nd Infantry Regiment, 25th Infantry Division, primarily through the eyes of Private Chris Taylor ([[Charlie Sheen]]), a young idealistic soldier on his first tour of duty in 1967. Throughout the film, Taylor experiences the conflict between two competing senior NCOs - the brave and compassionate Staff Sergeant Elias<!-- "Elias Grodin" is never used in the film, and originates from later versions of the movie poster--> ([[Willem Dafoe]]) and hardened, ruthless Staff Sergeant Robert Barnes ([[Tom Berenger]]). The film is notable for its realistic depiction of soldiers fighting the war (up until then, the war had been depicted in a more surrealistic and stylized fashion in such films as ''[[Apocalypse Now]]'' and ''[[The Deer Hunter]]'') and for being the first movie for which the actors were put through a "boot camp" (organized by technical adviser and Vietnam veteran [[Dale Dye]]) to gain experience on proper weapons handling and the day-to-day existence of a soldier fighting in Vietnam. It was filmed in the Philippines on the island of Luzon: local Vietnamese refugees played extras, and like ''[[Apocalypse Now]]'', the production received assistance from and was loaned equipment by the Philippine military.
 
Released to widespread critical acclaim, the film was nominated for eight Academy Awards and received four, including the awards for [[:Category:Academy Award Best Picture|Best Picture]] and Best Director. While the Vietnam War had been portrayed or referenced in several films prior, the success of ''Platoon'' helped usher in a new era of more serious and realistic depictions of the conflict.  Among the films of this era would include ''[[Full Metal Jacket]]'' and ''[[Hamburger Hill]]'' (both released in 1987), ''[[Platoon Leader]]'' and ''[[BAT*21]]'' (both released in 1988) as well as ''[[The Iron Triangle]]'' and ''[[The Siege of Firebase Gloria]]'' (both released in 1989). ''Platoon'' was also the first in Stone's unofficial "trilogy" of Vietnam War-themed films which included 1989's ''[[Born on the Fourth of July]]'' and 1993's ''[[Heaven & Earth]]''. In 2019, the film was selected for preservation in the United States National Film Registry by the Library of Congress as being "culturally, historically, or aesthetically significant".


{{Film Title}}
{{Film Title}}
Line 8: Line 41:
=Rifles / Carbines=
=Rifles / Carbines=
==M16==
==M16==
Crawford ([[Chris Pedersen]]) is briefly seen using what appears to be an original [[M16 Rifle|M16]]. The rifle has an A1 flash hider, but lacks a forward assist. It could also be an AR-15/SP1 rifle, but since he is not seen firing it, it is unknown.
Specialist Crawford ([[Chris Pedersen]]) is briefly seen using what appears to be an original [[M16 Rifle|M16]]. The rifle has an A1 flash hider, but lacks a forward assist. It could also be an AR-15/SP1 rifle, but since he is not seen firing it, it is unknown.
[[Image:M16SP1Birdcage.jpg|500px|thumb|none|An original M16 (SP1) rifle with a birdcage flash hider and a 20 round magazine. M16s like this were common substitutes for [[M16A1]]s in Vietnam War movies in the 1970s and 1980s - 5.56x45mm]]
[[Image:M16SP1Birdcage.jpg|500px|thumb|none|An original M16 (SP1) rifle with a birdcage flash hider and a 20 round magazine. M16s like this were common substitutes for [[M16A1]]s in Vietnam War movies in the 1970s and 1980s - 5.56x45mm]]
[[Image:Platoon Crawford M16.jpg|thumb|none|601px|In the center, Crawford ([[Chris Pedersen]]) holds an M16.]]
[[Image:Platoon Crawford M16.jpg|thumb|none|601px|In the center, Crawford ([[Chris Pedersen]]) holds an M16. Note the green tape covered handguard, which in real life this placement was practiced by US soldiers to hold cleaning rods.]]
[[Image:PlatoonAR15-SP1.jpg|thumb|none|603px|Crawford ([[Chris Pedersen]]) with his M16 at the ready.  Note the lack of a forward assist.]]
[[Image:PlatoonAR15-SP1.jpg|thumb|none|603px|Crawford ([[Chris Pedersen]]) with his M16 at the ready.  Note the lack of a forward assist.]]


==M16A1==
==M16A1==
Soldiers of the 1st Platoon, Bravo Company, ''25th Infantry Division "Tropic Lightning"'' carry [[M16A1]]s, most commonly seen in the hands of PVT Chris Taylor ([[Charlie Sheen]]). M16A1s are also carried by Big Harold ([[Forest Whitaker]]), Manny ([[Corkey Ford]]), Francis ([[Corey Glover]]) and Sergeant Red O'Neill ([[John C. McGinley]]).
U.S. Army soldiers of the 1st Platoon, Bravo Company, ''25th Infantry Division "Tropic Lightning"'' carry [[M16A1]]s, are most commonly seen in the hands of Private Chris Taylor ([[Charlie Sheen]]), Gator Lerner ([[Johnny Depp]]), Big Harold ([[Forest Whitaker]]), Manny ([[Corkey Ford]]), Francis ([[Corey Glover]]) and Sergeant Red O'Neill ([[John C. McGinley]]).
[[Image:M16A1.jpg|thumb|none|500px|M16A1 with 20 round magazine - 5.56x45mm]]
[[Image:M16A1.jpg|thumb|none|500px|M16A1 with 20 round magazine - 5.56x45mm]]
[[Image:PlatoonM16replica-1.jpg|thumb|none|601px|Big Harold ([[Forest Whitaker]]) humps the bush while on patrol with his M16A1.]]
[[Image:PlatoonM16replica-1.jpg|thumb|none|601px|Big Harold ([[Forest Whitaker]]) humps the bush while on patrol with his M16A1.]]
Line 20: Line 53:
[[Image:PlatoonM16A1-1.jpg|thumb|none|601px|Taylor fires his M16A1 during a night ambush.]]
[[Image:PlatoonM16A1-1.jpg|thumb|none|601px|Taylor fires his M16A1 during a night ambush.]]
[[Image:PlatoonM16A1-2.jpg|thumb|none|600px|Manny ([[Corkey Ford]]) with his M16A1.]]
[[Image:PlatoonM16A1-2.jpg|thumb|none|600px|Manny ([[Corkey Ford]]) with his M16A1.]]
[[Image:PlatoonM16A1-3.jpg|thumb|none|601px|Taylor ([[Charlie Sheen]]) with his [[M16A1]] at the ready.]]
[[Image:PlatoonM16A1-3.jpg|thumb|none|601px|Taylor ([[Charlie Sheen]]) with his [[M16A1]] at the ready. Note the green 100mph tape around the handguard and buttstock, which in real life was utilised by soldiers to hold cleaning rods and also as a rudimentary camouflage application.]]
[[Image:Platoon 501.jpg|thumb|none|600px|From left to right, both Huffmeister ([[Robert "Rock" Galotti]]) and Rhah ([[Francesco Quinn]]) have their M16A1's resting in their laps. Galotti served as a US Marine during the Gulf War and was an assistant technical adviser on this film. He is since become a prolific movie armorer.]]
[[Image:Platoon 501.jpg|thumb|none|600px|From left to right, both Huffmeister ([[Robert "Rock" Galotti]]) and Rhah Vermucci ([[Francesco Quinn]]) have their M16A1s resting in their laps. Galotti served as a US Marine during the Gulf War and was an assistant technical adviser on this film. He is since become a prolific movie armorer.]]
[[Image:PlatoonM16A1-4.jpg|thumb|none|600px|Francis ([[Corey Glover]]) fires his M16A1 during the final stand.]]
[[Image:PlatoonM16A1-4.jpg|thumb|none|601px|Francis ([[Corey Glover]]) fires his M16A1 during the final stand.]]
[[File:PlatoonM16Adam.jpg|thumb|none|600px|A sideview of Taylor's M16A1, showing the Colt prancing pony logo.]]
[[Image:PlatoonM16A1-5.jpg|thumb|none|601px|Taylor fires his M16A1 during the final stand.]]
[[Image:PlatoonM16A1-5.jpg|thumb|none|601px|Taylor fires his M16A1 during the final stand.]]
[[Image:PlatoonM16replica-3.jpg|thumb|none|601px|On the left, SGT Red O'Neill ([[John C. McGinley]]) with his M16A1.]]
[[Image:PlatoonM16replica-3.jpg|thumb|none|601px|On the left, Sergeant Red O'Neill ([[John C. McGinley]]) with his M16A1.]]


==Colt Model 653P==
==Colt Model 653P==
SSG Elias ([[Willem Dafoe]]), SSG Robert Barnes ([[Tom Berenger]]), and Lieutenant Wolfe ([[Mark Moses]]) are armed with [[Colt Model 653|Colt Model 653P]] carbines, noted by their rounded forward assist buttons and 14.5" barrels, as the 653Ps were 653 export models sent to the Philippines. They were probably meant to stand in (albeit poorly) for the [[XM177|XM177E1 or XM177E2 Carbines]]. It is thus anachronistic to see these in the movie, as they were not used during the Vietnam war.
Staff Sergeant Elias ([[Willem Dafoe]]), Staff Sergeant Robert Barnes ([[Tom Berenger]]), and Lieutenant Wolfe ([[Mark Moses]]) are armed with [[Colt Model 653|Colt Model 653P]] carbines, noted by their rounded forward assist buttons and 14.5" barrels, as the 653Ps were 653 export models sent to the Philippines. It is anachronistic to see these carbines in the movie, as they were not used during the Vietnam war, however they were probably likely meant to stand in for the [[XM177|XM177E1 or XM177E2 Carbines]] and because filming took place in the Philippines, the Colt 653P carbines were what was available for filming.  
[[Image:ColtM653Carbine.jpg|thumb|500px|none|Colt Model 653 'M16A1 Carbine' - 5.56x45mm NATO]]
[[Image:ColtM653Carbine.jpg|thumb|500px|none|Colt Model 653 'M16A1 Carbine' - 5.56x45mm NATO]]
[[Image:PlatoonColt654-1.jpg|thumb|none|600px|Staff Sergeant Robert Barnes ([[Tom Berenger]]) approaches a dead Vietnamese soldier with his Colt Model 653P at the ready. Note how he keeps two mags taped together "jungle-style".]]
[[Image:PlatoonColt654-1.jpg|thumb|none|600px|Staff Sergeant Robert Barnes approaches a dead Vietnamese soldier with his Colt Model 653P at the ready. Note how he keeps two mags taped together "jungle-style".]]
[[Image:PlatoonColt654-3.jpg|thumb|none|600px|Barnes locks and loads his Model 653P.]]
[[File:Platoon 91.jpg|thumb|none|600px|Barnes ([[Tom Berenger]]) carries his carbine while in a discussion with Lt. Wolfe ([[Mark Moses]]).]]
[[Image:PlatoonColt654-3.jpg|thumb|none|600px|''Saddle up, lock and load!'' <br> Barnes ([[Tom Berenger]]) pulls the charging handle of his Model 653P to chamber a round.]]
[[Image:Platoon Barnes ColtModel653P.jpg|thumb|none|601px|Barnes stands with his Colt 653P over a wounded NVA soldier .]]
[[Image:Platoon Barnes ColtModel653P.jpg|thumb|none|601px|Barnes stands with his Colt 653P over a wounded NVA soldier .]]
[[Image:PlatoonColt654-4.jpg|thumb|none|601px|Staff Sergeant Elias ([[Willem Dafoe]]) with his Colt 653P after the night ambush.]]
[[File:Bercolt.jpg|thumb|none|301px|Staff Sergeant Robert Barnes ([[Tom Berenger]]) holds his M653P in a production image.]]
[[File:Bercolt.jpg|thumb|none|301px|Staff Sergeant Robert Barnes ([[Tom Berenger]]) holds his M653P in a production image.]]
[[Image:PlatoonColt654-5.jpg|thumb|none|601px|Barnes raises his [[Colt Model 653|Colt Model 653P]].]]
[[Image:PlatoonColt654-5.jpg|thumb|none|601px|Barnes raises his [[Colt Model 653|Colt Model 653P]].]]
[[Image:PlatoonColt654-4.jpg|thumb|none|601px|Staff Sergeant Elias ([[Willem Dafoe]]) with his Colt 653P.]]
[[Image:PlatoonColt654-7.jpg|thumb|none|601px|Closeup of Elias' Model 653P.]]
[[Image:PlatoonColt654-7.jpg|thumb|none|601px|Closeup of Elias' Model 653P.]]
[[Image:PlatoonColt654-6.jpg|thumb|none|601px|Lieutenant Wolfe ([[Mark Moses]]) with his Colt 653P.]]
[[Image:PlatoonColt654-6.jpg|thumb|none|601px|Lieutenant Wolfe ([[Mark Moses]]) lugs his Colt 653P over his shoulder while on patrol.]]
[[Image:PlatoonColt654-8.jpg|thumb|none|601px|Wolfe fires his 653P during the final stand.]]
[[Image:PlatoonColt654-8.jpg|thumb|none|601px|Wolfe fires his 653P during the final stand.]]


==Norinco Type 56==
==Norinco Type 56==
The [[Norinco Type 56]] is the weapon of choice of the NVA soldiers, many of which feature "pig-sticker" under folder bayonets. They are noted as Chinese Type 56 rifles based on their hooded front sights. Only the milled receiver variant of this rifle was actually used during the war. Towards the end of the film, both SSgt. Robert Barnes ([[Tom Berenger]]) and Pvt. Chris Taylor ([[Charlie Sheen]]) are seen using these rifles, picked up from dead Vietnamese soldiers.
The [[Norinco Type 56]] is the weapon of choice of the NVA soldiers, many of which feature "pig-sticker" under folder bayonets. They are noted as Chinese Type 56 rifles based on their hooded front sights. Only the milled receiver variant of this rifle was actually used during the war. Towards the end of the film, both SSG Robert Barnes ([[Tom Berenger]]) and PVT Chris Taylor ([[Charlie Sheen]]) are seen using these rifles, picked up from dead Vietnamese soldiers.
[[Image:Early type 56.jpg|thumb|none|500px|Norinco Type 56, early model with milled receiver and with pig-sticker bayonet - 7.62x39mm]]
[[Image:Early type 56.jpg|thumb|none|500px|Norinco Type 56, early model with milled receiver and with pig-sticker bayonet - 7.62x39mm]]
[[Image:PlatoonType56-1.jpg|thumb|none|601px|An NVA soldier approaches Taylor's position armed with a Norinco Type 56.]]
[[Image:PlatoonType56-1.jpg|thumb|none|601px|An NVA soldier approaches Taylor's position armed with a Norinco Type 56.]]
Line 46: Line 81:
[[Image:PlatoonType56-3.jpg|thumb|none|602px|A Type 56 is seen behind SSG Robert Barnes ([[Tom Berenger]]).]]
[[Image:PlatoonType56-3.jpg|thumb|none|602px|A Type 56 is seen behind SSG Robert Barnes ([[Tom Berenger]]).]]
[[Image:PlatoonType56-4.jpg|thumb|none|601px|The Vietnamese hand out magazines to the troops as they prepare to assault during the final stand.]]
[[Image:PlatoonType56-4.jpg|thumb|none|601px|The Vietnamese hand out magazines to the troops as they prepare to assault during the final stand.]]
[[Image:PlatoonType56-7.jpg|thumb|none|602px|SSG Barnes ([[Tom Berenger]]) wields a Type 56 during the final stand.]]
[[Image:PlatoonType56-7.jpg|thumb|none|602px|Barnes wields a Type 56 during the final stand.]]
[[Image:PlatoonType56-8.jpg|thumb|none|602px|A shell-shocked PVT Taylor ([[Charlie Sheen]]) picks up Type 56 from a dead Vietnamese soldier.]]
[[Image:PlatoonType56-8.jpg|thumb|none|602px|A shell-shocked PVT Taylor ([[Charlie Sheen]]) picks up Type 56 from a dead Vietnamese soldier.]]
[[Image:Platoon Taylor Type56.jpg|thumb|none|602px|Taylor approaches a wounded soldier with the Type 56.]]
[[Image:Platoon Taylor Type56.jpg|thumb|none|602px|Taylor approaches a wounded Barnes with the Type 56.]]
[[Image:PlatoonType56-9.jpg|thumb|none|600px|Taylor after firing the Type 56.]]
[[Image:PlatoonType56-9.jpg|thumb|none|600px|Taylor after firing the Type 56.]]
[[Image:PlatoonM16replica-3.jpg|thumb|none|601px|On the right,  a U.S. soldier picks up a Type 56, unloads it then deploys the stick bayonet.]]


=Machine Guns=
=Machine Guns=
Line 55: Line 91:
The [[M60 machine gun]], sometimes affectionately called "The Pig" by US soldiers in Vietnam, is carried primarily by King ([[Keith David]]) in the film. As was typical in Vietnam, the M60 is seen in the film operated by two soldiers, a gunner and an assistant gunner who "feeds" the ammo.  
The [[M60 machine gun]], sometimes affectionately called "The Pig" by US soldiers in Vietnam, is carried primarily by King ([[Keith David]]) in the film. As was typical in Vietnam, the M60 is seen in the film operated by two soldiers, a gunner and an assistant gunner who "feeds" the ammo.  
[[Image:M60.jpg|thumb|none|500px|M60 machine gun - 7.62x51mm]]
[[Image:M60.jpg|thumb|none|500px|M60 machine gun - 7.62x51mm]]
[[Image:PlatoonM60-1.jpg|thumb|none|601px|SGT Elias Grodin ([[Willem Dafoe]]) lugs the 23 lb. [[M60 machine gun|"Pig"]] on his shoulders on patrol.]]
[[Image:PlatoonM60-1.jpg|thumb|none|601px|SSG Elias ([[Willem Dafoe]]) lugs the 23 lb. [[M60 machine gun|"Pig"]] on his shoulders on patrol. Elias does not carry or use the weapon in any other scene.]]
[[Image:PlatoonM60-2.jpg|thumb|none|601px|Lerner ([[Johnny Depp]]) sits on watch with a M60 behind him.]]
[[Image:PlatoonM60-2.jpg|thumb|none|601px|Lerner ([[Johnny Depp]]) sits on watch with a M60 behind him.]]
[[Image:Platoon Tex M60MG.jpg|thumb|none|601px|Tex ([[David Neidorf]]) fires the M60 during the ambush while Pvt. Junior Martin ([[Reggie Johnson]]) feeds him the ammunition belt.]]
[[File:Platoon 92.jpg|thumb|none|600px|Tex ([[David Neidorf]]) with his M60.]]
[[File:Platoon 95.jpg|thumb|none|600px|Tex lays down fire with the M60.]]
[[Image:Platoon Tex M60MG.jpg|thumb|none|601px|Tex ([[David Neidorf]]) fires the M60 during the ambush while Pvt. Junior Martin ([[Reggie Johnson]]) feeds the ammunition belt.]]
[[Image:PlatoonM60-3.jpg|thumb|none|601px|King ([[Keith David]]) carries his M60 while on patrol. He keeps in the typical Vietnam configuration with the bipod down.]]
[[Image:PlatoonM60-3.jpg|thumb|none|601px|King ([[Keith David]]) carries his M60 while on patrol. He keeps in the typical Vietnam configuration with the bipod down.]]
[[Image:Platoon BigHarold Huffmeister M60MG.jpg|thumb|none|600px|Morehouse ([[Kevin Eshelman]]) fires the M60 as Big Harold ([[Forest Whitaker]]) "feeds" the ammo.]]
[[Image:Platoon BigHarold Huffmeister M60MG.jpg|thumb|none|600px|Morehouse ([[Kevin Eshelman]]) fires the M60 as Big Harold ([[Forest Whitaker]]) "feeds" the ammo.]]
[[Image:PlatoonM60-4.jpg|thumb|none|601px|King fires the M60. Note the bottleneck rounds on the belt.]]
[[Image:PlatoonM60-4.jpg|thumb|none|601px|King fires the M60. Note the bottleneck blank rounds on the belt.]]
[[Image:Platoon Huey M60MG.jpg|thumb|none|601px|An M60 in a door gunner mount on a UH-1 'Huey'.]]
[[Image:Platoon Huey M60MG.jpg|thumb|none|601px|An M60 in a door gunner mount on a UH-1 'Huey'.]]
[[Image:PlatoonM60-5.jpg|thumb|none|601px|A helicopter door gunner (played by technical adviser [[Dale Dye]]) covers the soldiers with the door-mounted M60.]]
[[Image:PlatoonM60-5.jpg|thumb|none|601px|A helicopter door gunner (played by technical adviser [[Dale Dye]]) covers the soldiers with the door-mounted M60.]]
Line 70: Line 108:
[[Image:Platoon M113 M2HB.jpg|thumb|none|601px|A side-shot of the M2HB on the APC.]]
[[Image:Platoon M113 M2HB.jpg|thumb|none|601px|A side-shot of the M2HB on the APC.]]


== FN MAG 58 ==
==FN MAG 58==
When the soldiers are digging through the weapons cache found in the village, a LMG that resembles an [[FN MAG]] can be seen briefly.
When the soldiers are digging through the weapons cache found in the village, what appears to be an [[FN MAG]] can be seen briefly.
[[Image:FNMAG.jpg|thumb|none|500px|FN MAG 58 - 7.62x51mm NATO]]
[[Image:FNMAG.jpg|thumb|none|500px|FN MAG 58 - 7.62x51mm NATO]]
[[ File:PlatoonLMG.jpg |thumb|none|601px|Weapons cache. Note the LMG on the left.]]
[[ File:PlatoonLMG.jpg |thumb|none|601px|Weapons cache. Note what appears to be a MAG on the left.]]


=Shotguns=
=Shotguns=
==Remington 870 Wingmaster==
==Remington 870 Wingmaster==
Bunny ([[Kevin Dillon]]) uses a [[Remington 870]] Wingmaster shotgun with open blade sights throughout the film.
Bunny ([[Kevin Dillon]]) uses a [[Remington 870|Remington 870 Wingmaster]] shotgun with open blade sights throughout the film.
[[Image:Remington870SlugGun.jpg|thumb|none|500px|Remington 870 Slug Gun - 12 Gauge]]
[[Image:Remington870SlugGun.jpg|thumb|none|500px|Remington 870 Slug Gun - 12 Gauge]]
[[Image:PlatoonRem870deer-1.jpg|thumb|none|601px|Bunny ([[Kevin Dillon]]) fires his Remington 870.]]
[[File:PlatoonShotgun09.jpg|thumb|none|601px|Bunny ([[Kevin Dillon]]) poses with his Remington 870.]]
[[Image:PlatoonRem870deer-2.jpg|thumb|none|601px|Sergeant Elias Grodin ([[Willem Dafoe]]) lets Pvt. Chris Taylor ([[Charlie Sheen]]) "ride shotgun" with an 870. This particular scene was referenced in a Season 3 episode of ''[[Justified - Season 3|Justified]]''.]]
[[Image:PlatoonRem870deer-1.jpg|thumb|none|601px|Bunny fires his shotgun during an ambush.]]
[[Image:PlatoonRem870deer-2.jpg|thumb|none|601px|SSG Elias ([[Willem Dafoe]]) lets PVT Chris Taylor ([[Charlie Sheen]]) "ride shotgun" with an 870. This particular scene was referenced in a Season 3 episode of ''[[Justified - Season 3|Justified]]''.]]
[[Image:PlatoonRem870deer-3.jpg|thumb|none|600px|Bunny leaves the village with his 870 in hand. Note the trigger guard which has been polished to a bare aluminium finish, which helps I.D. it as the same shotgun in other scenes.]]
[[Image:PlatoonRem870deer-3.jpg|thumb|none|600px|Bunny leaves the village with his 870 in hand. Note the trigger guard which has been polished to a bare aluminium finish, which helps I.D. it as the same shotgun in other scenes.]]
[[Image:PlatoonRem870deer-4.jpg|thumb|none|601px|King ([[Keith David]]) with the same 870.]]
[[Image:PlatoonRem870deer-4.jpg|thumb|none|601px|King ([[Keith David]]) with the same 870.]]
[[Image:PlatoonRem870deer-6.jpg|thumb|none|601px|"You're hangin' with [[Audie Murphy]], here!" Bunny dug in for the last stand with his 870.]]
[[Image:PlatoonRem870deer-6.jpg|thumb|none|601px|''"You're hangin' with [[Audie Murphy]], here!"'' <BR> Bunny dug in for the last stand with his 870.]]
[[Image:PlatoonRem870deer-7.jpg|thumb|none|600px|Bunny shows his war face as he pumps his 870.]]
[[Image:PlatoonRem870deer-7.jpg|thumb|none|600px|Bunny shows his war face as he pumps his 870.]]


=Handguns=
=Handguns=
==M1911A1==
==M1911A1==
The [[M1911A1]] is the standard sidearm for all of the NCOs and Officers in the film. It is most prominently seen used by SGT Elias ([[Willem Dafoe]]) when he does tunnel rat duty and SSG Barnes ([[Tom Berenger]]) when he uses it to threaten a little girl in the village to get her father to talk.
The [[M1911A1]] is the standard sidearm for all of the NCOs and Officers in the film. It is most prominently seen used by SSG Elias ([[Willem Dafoe]]) when he does tunnel rat duty and SSG Barnes ([[Tom Berenger]]) when he uses it to threaten a little girl in the village to get her father to talk. Historically the M1911 was also carried by private soldiers in the field as a backup weapon - Though this was technically a breach of the military rules of the times very few serious attempts were ever made to prevent the practice.
[[Image:M1911Colt.jpg|thumb|none|300px|Colt M1911A1 - .45 ACP]]
[[Image:M1911Colt.jpg|thumb|none|300px|Colt M1911A1 - .45 ACP]]
[[Image:PlatoonM1911A1-1.jpg|thumb|none|601px|An M1911A1 is seen in Sergeant Elias Grodin's ([[Willem Dafoe]]) holster.]]
[[Image:PlatoonM1911A1-1.jpg|thumb|none|601px|An M1911A1 is seen in Elias' ([[Willem Dafoe]]) holster.]]
[[Image:PlatoonM1911A1-2.jpg|thumb|none|600px|Tex's ([[David Neidorf]]) M1911A1 sits next to his helmet.]]
[[Image:PlatoonM1911A1-2.jpg|thumb|none|600px|Tex's ([[David Neidorf]]) M1911A1 sits next to his helmet.]]
[[Image:PlatoonM1911A1-3.jpg|thumb|none|601px|Elias on tunnel-rat duty with his flashlight and .45 at the ready.]]
[[Image:PlatoonM1911A1-3.jpg|thumb|none|601px|Elias on tunnel-rat duty with his flashlight and .45 at the ready.]]
Line 99: Line 138:
=Launchers=
=Launchers=
==M72 LAW==
==M72 LAW==
[[M72 LAW]] launchers are seen strapped on several of the soldier's packs, notably the pack of Pvt. Chris Taylor ([[Charlie Sheen]]). It is also seen used by SSgt. Robert Barnes ([[Tom Berenger]]) during the final stand.
[[M72 LAW]] launchers are seen strapped on several of the soldier's packs, notably the pack of PVT Chris Taylor ([[Charlie Sheen]]). It is also seen used by SSG Robert Barnes ([[Tom Berenger]]) during the final stand.
[[Image:M72A2LAW.jpg|thumb|none|450px|M72 LAW - 66mm]]
[[Image:M72A2LAW.jpg|thumb|none|450px|M72 LAW - 66mm]]
[[Image:PlatoonM72LAW-1.jpg|thumb|none|601px|An M72 LAW is seen strapped to the pack of Taylor ([[Charlie Sheen]]).]]
[[Image:PlatoonM72LAW-1.jpg|thumb|none|601px|An M72 LAW is seen strapped to the pack of Taylor ([[Charlie Sheen]]).]]
Line 105: Line 144:
[[Image:PlatoonM72LAW-2.jpg|thumb|none|601px|Taylor's M72 LAW carried on his pack when in the village.]]
[[Image:PlatoonM72LAW-2.jpg|thumb|none|601px|Taylor's M72 LAW carried on his pack when in the village.]]
[[File:Morehouse M72LAW.jpg|thumb|none|601px|Morehouse ([[Kevin Eshelman]]) carries an M16A1 rifle and an M72 LAW on his pack.]]
[[File:Morehouse M72LAW.jpg|thumb|none|601px|Morehouse ([[Kevin Eshelman]]) carries an M16A1 rifle and an M72 LAW on his pack.]]
[[Image:PlatoonM72LAW-3.jpg|thumb|none|601px|SSgt. Robert Barnes ([[Tom Berenger]]) fires his M72 LAW during the final stand.]]
[[Image:PlatoonM72LAW-3.jpg|thumb|none|601px|SSG Robert Barnes ([[Tom Berenger]]) fires his M72 LAW during the final stand.]]


==M79 grenade launcher==
==M79 grenade launcher==
While never seen used in the film, the [[M79 grenade launcher]] AKA the "Blooper", is carried by several soldiers in the film, including Tubbs (Andrew B. Clark), a member of Red's squad. The weapon is never seen fired during the movie.
While never seen used in the film, the [[M79 grenade launcher]] AKA the "Blooper", is carried by several soldiers in the film, including Tubbs (Andrew B. Clark), a member of Red's squad. The weapon is never seen fired during the movie.
[[Image:M79-Grenade-Launcher.jpg|thumb|none|450px|M79 "Blooper" - 40mm]]
[[Image:M79-Grenade-Launcher.jpg|thumb|none|450px|M79 "Blooper" - 40x46mm]]
[[Image:PlatoonM79GL-1.jpg|thumb|none|601px|"Sandy" Sanderson (J. Adam Glover) out on patrol armed with his M79 grenade launcher.]]
[[Image:PlatoonM79GL-1.jpg|thumb|none|601px|"Sandy" Sanderson (J. Adam Glover) out on patrol armed with his M79 grenade launcher.]]
[[Image:PlatoonM79GL-2.jpg|thumb|none|601px|Tubbs searches the village with his M79 in hand.]]
[[Image:PlatoonM79GL-2.jpg|thumb|none|601px|Tubbs searches the village with his M79 in hand.]]
Line 116: Line 155:


==B-40==
==B-40==
Several NVA soldiers are armed with [[RPG-2|B-40's]], a Vietnamese copy of the RPG-2.
Several NVA soldiers are armed with [[RPG-2|B-40s]], a Vietnamese copy of the RPG-2.
[[Image:Rpg-2.jpg|thumb|none|450px|RPG-2 with PG-2 rocket - 40mm]]
[[Image:Rpg-2.jpg|thumb|none|450px|RPG-2 with PG-2 rocket - 40mm]]
[[Image:PlatoonRPG-2.jpg|thumb|none|601px|A Vietnamese soldier with a B-40.]]
[[Image:PlatoonRPG-2.jpg|thumb|none|601px|A Vietnamese soldier with a B-40.]]
Line 125: Line 164:
The [[M26 hand grenade]] is seen as the standard issue grenade carried by the members of 1st Platoon.
The [[M26 hand grenade]] is seen as the standard issue grenade carried by the members of 1st Platoon.
[[Image:200px-M-67handgrenade.jpg|thumb|none|150px|M26 High-Explosive Fragmentation hand grenade.]]
[[Image:200px-M-67handgrenade.jpg|thumb|none|150px|M26 High-Explosive Fragmentation hand grenade.]]
[[Image:PlatoonM26lemon-1.jpg|thumb|none|601px|As Pvt. Taylor ([[Charlie Sheen]]) glances at the claymore detonator, several M26 grenades are visible.]]
[[Image:PlatoonM26lemon-1.jpg|thumb|none|601px|As PVT Taylor glances at the claymore detonator, several M26 grenades are visible.]]
[[Image:PlatoonM26lemon-2.jpg|thumb|none|601px|A primed M26 grenade rolls around before detonating.]]
[[Image:PlatoonM26lemon-2.jpg|thumb|none|601px|A primed M26 grenade rolls around before detonating.]]


==M34 White Phosphorous Grenade==
==M15 White Phosphorous Grenade==
Ebenhoch (Mark Ebenhoch) is seen throwing an [[M34 White Phosphorous grenade]] (also called "Willy Pete" - slang for White Phosphorous) in one of the rice wells during the raid of the village. SSgt. Robert Barnes ([[Tom Berenger]]) also uses an M34 Grenade handed to him by Tony ([[Ivan Kane]]) to destroy one of the underground tunnels, this time yelling "Willie Pete!" when he throws the grenade.   
Ebenhoch (Mark Ebenhoch) is seen throwing an [[M15 White Phosphorous grenade]] (also called "Willy Pete" - slang for White Phosphorous) in one of the rice wells during the raid of the village. SSG Robert Barnes ([[Tom Berenger]]) also uses an M15 Grenade handed to him by Tony ([[Ivan Kane]]) to destroy one of the underground tunnels, this time yelling "Willie Pete!" when he throws the grenade.   
[[Image:M34 2-1-.jpg|thumb|none|150px|M34 White Phosphorous grenade]]
 
[[Image:Platoon Barnes Ebenhoch M34WP.jpg|thumb|none|601px|Tony ([[Ivan Kane]]) hands SSgt. Robert Barnes ([[Tom Berenger]]) an M34 White Phosphorous grenade.]]
[[Image:M15-W-P-smoke-grenade-300315-1.JPG|thumb|none|250px|'''Replica''' M15 white phosphorous grenade]]
[[Image:PlatoonThermite.jpg|thumb|none|601px|Ebenhoch (Mark Ebenhoch) readies an M34 White Phosphorous grenade to be tossed into well.]]
[[Image:Platoon Barnes Ebenhoch M34WP.jpg|thumb|none|601px|Tony ([[Ivan Kane]]) hands Barnes ([[Tom Berenger]]) an M15 White Phosphorous grenade. Note the rounded top and untextured body: this is not an M34.]]
[[Image:PlatoonThermite.jpg|thumb|none|601px|Ebenhoch (Mark Ebenhoch) readies an M15 White Phosphorous grenade to be tossed into well.]]


==Type 67 Stick Grenade==
==Type 67 Stick Grenade==
The Chinese [[Type 67 stick grenade]] is seen also carried by NVA forces in the film.   Several grenades are seen in a hidden weapons cache that is being prepared to be detonated.
The Chinese [[Type 67 stick grenade]] is seen also carried by NVA forces in the film. Several grenades are seen in a hidden weapons cache that is being prepared to be detonated.
[[Image:Type67Grenade.jpg|thumb|none|150px|none|Type 67 hand grenade]]
[[Image:Type67Grenade.jpg|thumb|none|150px|none|Type 67 hand grenade]]
[[Image:Platoon 213.jpg|thumb|none|601px| Several grenades are seen in a hidden weapons cache that is being prepared to be detonated.]]
[[Image:Platoon 213.jpg|thumb|none|601px| Several grenades are seen in a hidden weapons cache that is being prepared to be detonated.]]
=Other=
==M18A1 Claymore==
The Platoon use the M18A1 Claymore during the night ambush and the final battle.
[[Image:M18a1 07.jpg|thumb|none|400px|M18A1 Claymore anti-personnel mine]]
[[File:Platoon_303.jpg|thumb|none|600px|The M18A1 Claymore is seen being set up.]]


[[Category:Movie]]
[[Category:Movie]]
[[Category:War]]
[[Category:War]]
[[Category:Oliver Stone]]
[[Category:Oliver Stone]]
[[Category: National Film Registry]]
[[Category:Academy Award Best Picture]]
[[Category:Academy Award Best Picture]]

Latest revision as of 07:01, 21 July 2023



Platoon
Error creating thumbnail: File missing
Movie Poster
Country Error creating thumbnail: File missing United States
Directed by Oliver Stone
Release Date 1986
Language English
Vietnamese
Studio Hemdale Film Corporation
Distributor Orion Pictures
Main Cast
Character Actor
Private First Class Chris Taylor Charlie Sheen
Staff Sergeant Bob Barnes Tom Berenger
Sergeant Elias Willem Dafoe
Sergeant Red O'Neill John C. McGinley
King Keith David
Rhah Francesco Quinn
Bunny Kevin Dillon
Lieutenant Wolfe Mark Moses
Lerner Johnny Depp
Big Harold Forest Whitaker


Platoon is a 1986 Vietnam War film written and directed by Oliver Stone, who based his screenplay upon his own experiences as a combat infantryman in both the 1st Cavalry Division and the 25th Infantry Division. The film follows a rifle platoon in Bravo Company, 22nd Infantry Regiment, 25th Infantry Division, primarily through the eyes of Private Chris Taylor (Charlie Sheen), a young idealistic soldier on his first tour of duty in 1967. Throughout the film, Taylor experiences the conflict between two competing senior NCOs - the brave and compassionate Staff Sergeant Elias (Willem Dafoe) and hardened, ruthless Staff Sergeant Robert Barnes (Tom Berenger). The film is notable for its realistic depiction of soldiers fighting the war (up until then, the war had been depicted in a more surrealistic and stylized fashion in such films as Apocalypse Now and The Deer Hunter) and for being the first movie for which the actors were put through a "boot camp" (organized by technical adviser and Vietnam veteran Dale Dye) to gain experience on proper weapons handling and the day-to-day existence of a soldier fighting in Vietnam. It was filmed in the Philippines on the island of Luzon: local Vietnamese refugees played extras, and like Apocalypse Now, the production received assistance from and was loaned equipment by the Philippine military.

Released to widespread critical acclaim, the film was nominated for eight Academy Awards and received four, including the awards for Best Picture and Best Director. While the Vietnam War had been portrayed or referenced in several films prior, the success of Platoon helped usher in a new era of more serious and realistic depictions of the conflict. Among the films of this era would include Full Metal Jacket and Hamburger Hill (both released in 1987), Platoon Leader and BAT*21 (both released in 1988) as well as The Iron Triangle and The Siege of Firebase Gloria (both released in 1989). Platoon was also the first in Stone's unofficial "trilogy" of Vietnam War-themed films which included 1989's Born on the Fourth of July and 1993's Heaven & Earth. In 2019, the film was selected for preservation in the United States National Film Registry by the Library of Congress as being "culturally, historically, or aesthetically significant".


The following weapons were used in the film Platoon:


Rifles / Carbines

M16

Specialist Crawford (Chris Pedersen) is briefly seen using what appears to be an original M16. The rifle has an A1 flash hider, but lacks a forward assist. It could also be an AR-15/SP1 rifle, but since he is not seen firing it, it is unknown.

Error creating thumbnail: File missing
An original M16 (SP1) rifle with a birdcage flash hider and a 20 round magazine. M16s like this were common substitutes for M16A1s in Vietnam War movies in the 1970s and 1980s - 5.56x45mm
Error creating thumbnail: File missing
In the center, Crawford (Chris Pedersen) holds an M16. Note the green tape covered handguard, which in real life this placement was practiced by US soldiers to hold cleaning rods.
Error creating thumbnail: File missing
Crawford (Chris Pedersen) with his M16 at the ready. Note the lack of a forward assist.

M16A1

U.S. Army soldiers of the 1st Platoon, Bravo Company, 25th Infantry Division "Tropic Lightning" carry M16A1s, are most commonly seen in the hands of Private Chris Taylor (Charlie Sheen), Gator Lerner (Johnny Depp), Big Harold (Forest Whitaker), Manny (Corkey Ford), Francis (Corey Glover) and Sergeant Red O'Neill (John C. McGinley).

Error creating thumbnail: File missing
M16A1 with 20 round magazine - 5.56x45mm
Error creating thumbnail: File missing
Big Harold (Forest Whitaker) humps the bush while on patrol with his M16A1.
Error creating thumbnail: File missing
A soldier rests with his M16A1 at his side.
Error creating thumbnail: File missing
Taylor fires his M16A1 during a night ambush.
Error creating thumbnail: File missing
Manny (Corkey Ford) with his M16A1.
Error creating thumbnail: File missing
Taylor (Charlie Sheen) with his M16A1 at the ready. Note the green 100mph tape around the handguard and buttstock, which in real life was utilised by soldiers to hold cleaning rods and also as a rudimentary camouflage application.
Error creating thumbnail: File missing
From left to right, both Huffmeister (Robert "Rock" Galotti) and Rhah Vermucci (Francesco Quinn) have their M16A1s resting in their laps. Galotti served as a US Marine during the Gulf War and was an assistant technical adviser on this film. He is since become a prolific movie armorer.
Error creating thumbnail: File missing
Francis (Corey Glover) fires his M16A1 during the final stand.
Error creating thumbnail: File missing
A sideview of Taylor's M16A1, showing the Colt prancing pony logo.
Error creating thumbnail: File missing
Taylor fires his M16A1 during the final stand.
Error creating thumbnail: File missing
On the left, Sergeant Red O'Neill (John C. McGinley) with his M16A1.

Colt Model 653P

Staff Sergeant Elias (Willem Dafoe), Staff Sergeant Robert Barnes (Tom Berenger), and Lieutenant Wolfe (Mark Moses) are armed with Colt Model 653P carbines, noted by their rounded forward assist buttons and 14.5" barrels, as the 653Ps were 653 export models sent to the Philippines. It is anachronistic to see these carbines in the movie, as they were not used during the Vietnam war, however they were probably likely meant to stand in for the XM177E1 or XM177E2 Carbines and because filming took place in the Philippines, the Colt 653P carbines were what was available for filming.

Error creating thumbnail: File missing
Colt Model 653 'M16A1 Carbine' - 5.56x45mm NATO
Error creating thumbnail: File missing
Staff Sergeant Robert Barnes approaches a dead Vietnamese soldier with his Colt Model 653P at the ready. Note how he keeps two mags taped together "jungle-style".
Error creating thumbnail: File missing
Barnes (Tom Berenger) carries his carbine while in a discussion with Lt. Wolfe (Mark Moses).
Error creating thumbnail: File missing
Saddle up, lock and load!
Barnes (Tom Berenger) pulls the charging handle of his Model 653P to chamber a round.
Error creating thumbnail: File missing
Barnes stands with his Colt 653P over a wounded NVA soldier .
Error creating thumbnail: File missing
Staff Sergeant Elias (Willem Dafoe) with his Colt 653P after the night ambush.
Error creating thumbnail: File missing
Staff Sergeant Robert Barnes (Tom Berenger) holds his M653P in a production image.
Error creating thumbnail: File missing
Barnes raises his Colt Model 653P.
Error creating thumbnail: File missing
Closeup of Elias' Model 653P.
Error creating thumbnail: File missing
Lieutenant Wolfe (Mark Moses) lugs his Colt 653P over his shoulder while on patrol.
Error creating thumbnail: File missing
Wolfe fires his 653P during the final stand.

Norinco Type 56

The Norinco Type 56 is the weapon of choice of the NVA soldiers, many of which feature "pig-sticker" under folder bayonets. They are noted as Chinese Type 56 rifles based on their hooded front sights. Only the milled receiver variant of this rifle was actually used during the war. Towards the end of the film, both SSG Robert Barnes (Tom Berenger) and PVT Chris Taylor (Charlie Sheen) are seen using these rifles, picked up from dead Vietnamese soldiers.

Error creating thumbnail: File missing
Norinco Type 56, early model with milled receiver and with pig-sticker bayonet - 7.62x39mm
Error creating thumbnail: File missing
An NVA soldier approaches Taylor's position armed with a Norinco Type 56.
Error creating thumbnail: File missing
A Type 56 is seen abandoned when the soldiers search the bunker. Note folding bayonet.
Error creating thumbnail: File missing
A Type 56 is seen behind SSG Robert Barnes (Tom Berenger).
Error creating thumbnail: File missing
The Vietnamese hand out magazines to the troops as they prepare to assault during the final stand.
Error creating thumbnail: File missing
Barnes wields a Type 56 during the final stand.
Error creating thumbnail: File missing
A shell-shocked PVT Taylor (Charlie Sheen) picks up Type 56 from a dead Vietnamese soldier.
Error creating thumbnail: File missing
Taylor approaches a wounded Barnes with the Type 56.
Error creating thumbnail: File missing
Taylor after firing the Type 56.
Error creating thumbnail: File missing
On the right, a U.S. soldier picks up a Type 56, unloads it then deploys the stick bayonet.

Machine Guns

M60

The M60 machine gun, sometimes affectionately called "The Pig" by US soldiers in Vietnam, is carried primarily by King (Keith David) in the film. As was typical in Vietnam, the M60 is seen in the film operated by two soldiers, a gunner and an assistant gunner who "feeds" the ammo.

Error creating thumbnail: File missing
M60 machine gun - 7.62x51mm
Error creating thumbnail: File missing
SSG Elias (Willem Dafoe) lugs the 23 lb. "Pig" on his shoulders on patrol. Elias does not carry or use the weapon in any other scene.
Error creating thumbnail: File missing
Lerner (Johnny Depp) sits on watch with a M60 behind him.
Error creating thumbnail: File missing
Tex (David Neidorf) with his M60.
Error creating thumbnail: File missing
Tex lays down fire with the M60.
Error creating thumbnail: File missing
Tex (David Neidorf) fires the M60 during the ambush while Pvt. Junior Martin (Reggie Johnson) feeds the ammunition belt.
Error creating thumbnail: File missing
King (Keith David) carries his M60 while on patrol. He keeps in the typical Vietnam configuration with the bipod down.
Error creating thumbnail: File missing
Morehouse (Kevin Eshelman) fires the M60 as Big Harold (Forest Whitaker) "feeds" the ammo.
Error creating thumbnail: File missing
King fires the M60. Note the bottleneck blank rounds on the belt.
Error creating thumbnail: File missing
An M60 in a door gunner mount on a UH-1 'Huey'.
Error creating thumbnail: File missing
A helicopter door gunner (played by technical adviser Dale Dye) covers the soldiers with the door-mounted M60.

Browning M2HB

A Browning M2HB heavy machine gun is seen mounted on for use on an M113 Armored Personnel Carrier after the final stand.

Error creating thumbnail: File missing
Browning M2HB on vehicle mount - .50 BMG (12.7x99mm NATO)
Error creating thumbnail: File missing
A gunner on the M2HB .50 cal as the M113 drives in. Director Oliver Stone noted in his DVD commentary for the film that APC soldiers were notorious for displaying Nazi paraphernalia on their vehicles, hence the swastika flag tied to the antenna.
Error creating thumbnail: File missing
A side-shot of the M2HB on the APC.

FN MAG 58

When the soldiers are digging through the weapons cache found in the village, what appears to be an FN MAG can be seen briefly.

Error creating thumbnail: File missing
FN MAG 58 - 7.62x51mm NATO
Error creating thumbnail: File missing
Weapons cache. Note what appears to be a MAG on the left.

Shotguns

Remington 870 Wingmaster

Bunny (Kevin Dillon) uses a Remington 870 Wingmaster shotgun with open blade sights throughout the film.

Error creating thumbnail: File missing
Remington 870 Slug Gun - 12 Gauge
Error creating thumbnail: File missing
Bunny (Kevin Dillon) poses with his Remington 870.
Error creating thumbnail: File missing
Bunny fires his shotgun during an ambush.
Error creating thumbnail: File missing
SSG Elias (Willem Dafoe) lets PVT Chris Taylor (Charlie Sheen) "ride shotgun" with an 870. This particular scene was referenced in a Season 3 episode of Justified.
Error creating thumbnail: File missing
Bunny leaves the village with his 870 in hand. Note the trigger guard which has been polished to a bare aluminium finish, which helps I.D. it as the same shotgun in other scenes.
Error creating thumbnail: File missing
King (Keith David) with the same 870.
Error creating thumbnail: File missing
"You're hangin' with Audie Murphy, here!"
Bunny dug in for the last stand with his 870.
Error creating thumbnail: File missing
Bunny shows his war face as he pumps his 870.

Handguns

M1911A1

The M1911A1 is the standard sidearm for all of the NCOs and Officers in the film. It is most prominently seen used by SSG Elias (Willem Dafoe) when he does tunnel rat duty and SSG Barnes (Tom Berenger) when he uses it to threaten a little girl in the village to get her father to talk. Historically the M1911 was also carried by private soldiers in the field as a backup weapon - Though this was technically a breach of the military rules of the times very few serious attempts were ever made to prevent the practice.

Error creating thumbnail: File missing
Colt M1911A1 - .45 ACP
Error creating thumbnail: File missing
An M1911A1 is seen in Elias' (Willem Dafoe) holster.
Error creating thumbnail: File missing
Tex's (David Neidorf) M1911A1 sits next to his helmet.
Error creating thumbnail: File missing
Elias on tunnel-rat duty with his flashlight and .45 at the ready.
Error creating thumbnail: File missing
Elias fires his .45.
Error creating thumbnail: File missing
Staff Sergeant Barnes (Tom Berenger) threatens a little girl with his .45 in the village.

Error creating thumbnail: File missing
The Battalion Commander (director Oliver Stone in a cameo) is seen with a .45 in a tanker-style shoulder holster.

Launchers

M72 LAW

M72 LAW launchers are seen strapped on several of the soldier's packs, notably the pack of PVT Chris Taylor (Charlie Sheen). It is also seen used by SSG Robert Barnes (Tom Berenger) during the final stand.

Error creating thumbnail: File missing
M72 LAW - 66mm
Error creating thumbnail: File missing
An M72 LAW is seen strapped to the pack of Taylor (Charlie Sheen).
Error creating thumbnail: File missing
The M72A2 carried on top of Taylor's pack. Note that the taped-up covers on the launcher (Dale Dye mentioned in the commentary that this was because the covers kept falling off during filming).
Error creating thumbnail: File missing
Taylor's M72 LAW carried on his pack when in the village.
Error creating thumbnail: File missing
Morehouse (Kevin Eshelman) carries an M16A1 rifle and an M72 LAW on his pack.
Error creating thumbnail: File missing
SSG Robert Barnes (Tom Berenger) fires his M72 LAW during the final stand.

M79 grenade launcher

While never seen used in the film, the M79 grenade launcher AKA the "Blooper", is carried by several soldiers in the film, including Tubbs (Andrew B. Clark), a member of Red's squad. The weapon is never seen fired during the movie.

Error creating thumbnail: File missing
M79 "Blooper" - 40x46mm
Error creating thumbnail: File missing
"Sandy" Sanderson (J. Adam Glover) out on patrol armed with his M79 grenade launcher.
Error creating thumbnail: File missing
Tubbs searches the village with his M79 in hand.
Error creating thumbnail: File missing
Tubbs chucks a grenade into a basket of rice in the village, M79 slung in front.
Error creating thumbnail: File missing
An APC soldier armed with an M79 searches the dead after the final stand.

B-40

Several NVA soldiers are armed with B-40s, a Vietnamese copy of the RPG-2.

Error creating thumbnail: File missing
RPG-2 with PG-2 rocket - 40mm
Error creating thumbnail: File missing
A Vietnamese soldier with a B-40.
Error creating thumbnail: File missing
Vietnamese soldiers prepare to fire a B-40 at a bunker during the climatic battle.

Grenades

M26 Hand Grenade

The M26 hand grenade is seen as the standard issue grenade carried by the members of 1st Platoon.

Error creating thumbnail: File missing
M26 High-Explosive Fragmentation hand grenade.
Error creating thumbnail: File missing
As PVT Taylor glances at the claymore detonator, several M26 grenades are visible.
Error creating thumbnail: File missing
A primed M26 grenade rolls around before detonating.

M15 White Phosphorous Grenade

Ebenhoch (Mark Ebenhoch) is seen throwing an M15 White Phosphorous grenade (also called "Willy Pete" - slang for White Phosphorous) in one of the rice wells during the raid of the village. SSG Robert Barnes (Tom Berenger) also uses an M15 Grenade handed to him by Tony (Ivan Kane) to destroy one of the underground tunnels, this time yelling "Willie Pete!" when he throws the grenade.

Error creating thumbnail: File missing
Replica M15 white phosphorous grenade
Error creating thumbnail: File missing
Tony (Ivan Kane) hands Barnes (Tom Berenger) an M15 White Phosphorous grenade. Note the rounded top and untextured body: this is not an M34.
Error creating thumbnail: File missing
Ebenhoch (Mark Ebenhoch) readies an M15 White Phosphorous grenade to be tossed into well.

Type 67 Stick Grenade

The Chinese Type 67 stick grenade is seen also carried by NVA forces in the film. Several grenades are seen in a hidden weapons cache that is being prepared to be detonated.

Error creating thumbnail: File missing
Type 67 hand grenade
Error creating thumbnail: File missing
Several grenades are seen in a hidden weapons cache that is being prepared to be detonated.

Other

M18A1 Claymore

The Platoon use the M18A1 Claymore during the night ambush and the final battle.

M18A1 Claymore anti-personnel mine
Error creating thumbnail: File missing
The M18A1 Claymore is seen being set up.