Abstract: An obturator assembly for sealing the breech of a breech-loaded cannon includes a generally annular seal, a front split ring, a rear split ring, a rear inner ring, an annular disc, and a plurality of magnets disposed in the seal. The seal has a front portion with a leading angled surface and a rear portion. The rear portion includes a trailing angled surface and a flat surface. A plurality of magnets is disposed in holes in the leading angled surface of the front portion and in the flat surface of the rear portion. Magnets in the holes in the front portion hold the front split ring in abutment with the seal. Magnets in the holes in the rear portion hold the annular disc in abutment with the rear split ring and rear inner ring. The front split ring, rear split ring, rear inner ring, and annular disc may rotate with respect to the seal when the breech is opened or closed.

Abstract: A bipod support apparatus for an indirect fire weapon such as the 120 mm mortar comprised of a 55 degree ramp and a longer travel distance between the low, middle and high positions which allows for the mounting of the bipods buffer mechanism to the 120 mm mortar tube to stay in one location at 15.54 inches from the muzzle end of the mortar tube, throughout all the adjustment positions and elevation ranges (800 mils to 1512 mils). The three positions, in lieu of the current two position system, eliminate the constant changing of elevation adjustment positions. The new elevating support assembly with its new guide assembly allows for a smooth motion/transition between the three positions of the main base assembly. A new locking mechanism rotates a quarter turn (90°) to lock or unlock the elevating support assembly. Such lock or unlock action now only requires a one hand operation to unlock-lift-lock the elevating support assembly.