rpg 7 vs rpg 29

The RPG-7 and RPG-29 are two distinct rocket-propelled grenade launchers with different roles, capabilities, and generations of technology. Heres a detailed comparison: RPG-7 (Russia, 1961) Type: Reusable, unguided anti-tank grenade launcher. Caliber: 40mm launcher (warheads vary, typically 85mm105mm). Effective Range: 200300m (up to 500m with some warheads). Warhead Types: - PG-7V (HEAT, 260mm RHA penetration). - PG-7VR (Tandem HEAT, 600mm RHA behind ERA). - Thermobaric, fragmentation, etc. Weight: 6.3 kg (unloaded), 1012 kg loaded. Muzzle Velocity: 115140 m/s. Reloadable: Yes (single-shot). Advantages: - Lightweight, widely available, and cheap. - Large variety of warheads for different targets. - Proven in conflicts worldwide. Disadvantages: - Unguided, less accurate at long range. - Limited against modern tanks with composite/ERA armor. RPG-29 "Vampir" (Russia, 1989) Type: Reusable, unguided heavy anti-tank rocket launcher. Caliber: 105mm launcher (warhead: 64.2mm tandem HEAT). Effective Range: 450500m. Warhead: PG-29V (Tandem HEAT, 750mm RHA behind ERA). Weight: 11.5 kg (unloaded), 18.8 kg loaded. Muzzle Velocity: 280 m/s. Reloadable: Yes (single-shot). Advantages: - Much higher penetration (can threaten modern MBTs like Abrams, Challenger 2, and Merkava). - Longer effective range than RPG-7. - Still man-portable (though heavier). Disadvantages: - Heavier and bulkier than RPG-7. - Less common and more expensive. - Still unguided, limiting long-range accuracy. Key Differences Feature RPG-7 RPG-29 Generation Cold War (1960s) Late Cold War (1980s) Penetration 260600mm RHA 750mm RHA behind ERA Effective Range 300m 500m Weight (Loaded) 1012kg 18.8kg Warhead Options Many (HEAT, thermobaric, etc.) Primarily tandem HEAT Cost & Availability Cheap, widespread More expensive, less common Which is Better? Against Infantry/Light Vehicles: RPG-7 (lighter, versatile warheads). Against Modern Tanks: RPG-29 (superior penetration). For Guerrilla/Insurgent Use: RPG-7 (cheaper, easier to find ammo). For Military Anti-Tank Role: RPG-29 (more effective vs armor). Conclusion The RPG-7 remains the most widely used RPG due to its versatility and low cost, while the RPG-29 is a specialized heavy anti-tank weapon designed to counter modern armor. If facing advanced tanks, the RPG-29 is far superior, but for general-purpose use, the RPG-7 is more practical.