the m67 is shaped like a long tube with the sight assembly and trigger offset to the side in opposite directions about halfway along the barrel. under this point is the monopod, with the bipod halfway back from there. the weapon required a crew of three to operate it; a gunner, assistant gunner (loader) and ammo bearer. the breech is hinged on the right side, and had to be swung open to load the round. it was then swung closed and when the rifle was fired, the rear end of the shell case broke up and was blown out of the back of the breech block. on the left side of the barrel, near the sight and trigger assemblies, was an asbestos heat shield to protect the gunner's shoulder and neck from the heat of the barrel when firing.