It could be fired from an M1917A1 .30 caliber machine gun tripod, or from a vehicle mount, typically a Jeep.

Production of the M20 was underway by March 1945; only limited numbers were used by Allied troops in the European and Pacific theaters.

It is this use of vented propellant gases that eliminated the need for a recoil system, thereby reducing the weight of the launcher and enhancing its use as a light infantry weapon.

However, the recoilless rifle failed to destroy any North Korean T-34-85 during the Battle of Osan on July 5, 1950.

It was a very effective weapon to destroy enemy bunkers and trenches with easy transportation benefitted from light weight while providing great firepower.