Meet the B&T GL06K: Grenade Launcher You Might Actually Be Able to Buy

If you thought the micro-compact pistol craze had reached its peak, wait until you meet the B&T GL06K—a pocket-sized grenade launcher. The Swiss manufacturer B&T has taken their tried-and-true GL06 40mm launcher and shrunk it down to create a more compact, more maneuverable, and surprisingly more accessible version: the GL06K. And the best part? There’s a strong possibility this thing will be available to civilian buyers in the United States.
The B&T GL06K is a shorter, updated version of the original B&T GL06 single-shot, break-action grenade launcher. Originally developed for European law enforcement as part of a less-lethal system, the GL06 was designed to fire SIR (Safe Impact Rounds)—a low-pressure, reusable 40mm projectile driven by a 9mm or .38 blank cartridge. These rounds are effective for riot control, training, and even launching payloads like chalk or signaling rounds.
The “K” in GL06K stands for Kurz (German for “short”), and it’s an apt name. The GL06K shortens the barrel considerably and replaces the original folding stock with a four-position telescoping stock, giving it a sleeker, more compact footprint without sacrificing usability.
Despite its origins in the less-lethal world, the GL06K is a legit 40x46mm platform. That means you can, in theory, shoot standard low-velocity grenades—although B&T warns that steel or copper-banded projectiles will wear out the aluminum barrel over time. If you’re planning on launching chalk, flares, or B&T’s proprietary polymer impact rounds, the GL06K is more than up to the task.
Civilians Can Actually Buy This?
Yes. Kind of.
According to B&T representatives, the GL06K is expected to become available in the U.S. market as early as 2025. Due to NFA regulations, production must take place within the U.S., similar to how suppressors are manufactured for the civilian market. Once stateside production is up and running, B&T plans to offer the GL06K in both 40mm and potentially 37mm configurations—the latter being particularly interesting for civilians, as 37mm launchers are not considered destructive devices.
This means you could theoretically use your GL06K to launch chalk rounds, flares, fireworks, or whatever you can cook up. While you probably won’t be lobbing high explosives out of your backyard barbecue setup, the GL06K could still be the most fun you’ve had with a single-shot launcher.
Features and Specs
- Caliber: 40x46mm (with potential 37mm variant)
- Action: Single-shot, break-action
- Trigger: Double-action only
- Stock: 4-position telescoping
- Rail System: Full-length top rail with 3, 6, and 9 o’clock accessory rails
- Sights: Iron sights standard, optics-ready
- Material: Lightweight aluminum alloy barrel (optimized for polymer projectiles)
- Safety: Cross-bolt safety
- Weight and Size: Significantly shorter than standard GL06, exact specs TBD
Real-World Use Cases
While the GL06K was never intended to be an “offensive” weapon - it’s a less-than-lethal device, primarily - it excels in a few key areas. For law enforcement, it’s a reliable, lightweight launcher with improved portability. For civilian owners, the GL06K is a novelty, a conversation piece, and—let’s be honest—a ridiculously fun platform to shoot inert payloads.
The reusable polymer training rounds can be reloaded up to 10 times or more using a new blank cartridge, making it a cost-effective alternative to other less-lethal launchers on the market. Plus, the potential for a 37mm variant opens the door to use cases like signaling, wildlife deterrence, and—yes—backyard fireworks fun (where legal).
Price and Availability
Pricing isn’t finalized yet, but early indications suggest the GL06K will retail for “a couple thousand dollars.” That may sound steep, but for a Swiss-engineered 40mm platform with legitimate multi-role capabilities, they’ll sell a few.
Keep in mind that availability will depend on U.S. production timelines, ATF classification (especially if a 37mm version is offered), and demand. But if B&T delivers on what it’s promising, this could be fun.
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Owner, Neutral Ground Gun Co. NRA/Louisiana State Police certified concealed weapons instructor, 2012-present Maxim Magazine's MAXIMum Warrior, 2011 TFBTV Executive Producer Champion, Key West Cinco De Mayo Taco Eating Competition Lawyer Instagram: gunshorts Twitter: @jjreeves
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Speaking of 37mm launchers, spike’s tactical should bring back the 37mm M79 that they used to make.
how wide are those skinny energy drink cans in millimeters, asking for a friend