It began replacing the M1 mortar in U.S. service in 1952 being lighter and with greater range.

These were produced with a hard chrome-plated bore to prolong barrel life and ease of cleaning.

[citation needed] The maximum rate of fire of the M29 is 27 rounds per minute, while the sustained rate of fire is 4 rounds per minute; For the M29A1 model, the maximum rate of fire is 30 rounds per minute with a sustained rate of fire of 5 rounds per minute.

WP M375A2 (White Phosphorus): Minimum range 72 metres (79 yd), maximum range 4,737 metres (5,180 yd).

WP M370 (White Phosphorus): Minimum range 52 metres (57 yd), maximum range 3,987 metres (4,360 yd).