Maschinengewehr 42 - Page 2

Nachtjager · #11 (**permalink**) October 1st, 2008, 05:04 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by McCoy

Quote:

Originally Posted by Nachtjager

Quote:

Originally Posted by TSPhillips

I've often wondered why the German weapons had such a high rate of fire, and after a bit of research, got a reason. The Germans reasoned that there would always be cover on a battlefield, but troops had to move from cover to cover, and the time they were exposed, put as much lead into that area in as short a time as possible. Hence, the high rates of fire. At least that was one reason. I've also read that on the Eastern front that 42's were modified to fire up to 2000 (!) rounds a minute for the Russian human wave assaults. All in all, a truly terrifying weapon and interesting doctrine.

WOW, that sure would slow down russian advances. Quite a good gun. I like how it continued service for some time after the war. Does anyone know when it discontinues service?

It's still in service in quite a lot of different countrys in either MG42/59 or MG3 configuration. Both versions is chambered for 7.62 x 51mm NATO (.308).

cool. So it's not discontinueing service at all

warry · #12 (**permalink**) November 10th, 2008, 06:00 AM

hi
i'm curious , i'd like to convert deactivated yugo M53 aka MG42 for gas/blank firing.(reenacting)
i would hide the kit inside mg's body and i'd like to use its barrel for gas/flames/sound going out of mg
i can not find any plans , drawings , how to make it ... would you have any clue please?
i'd be very thankfull for any info , i can not use blank firing mg as it became ilegal here without special permission which is nightmarre to get.

i do not mind its hoses as i can hide them somehow , when used on sdkfz251/0t810 halftrack

many thanks
petr
p.warry@seznam.cz

Tom Houlihan · #13 (**permalink**) November 10th, 2008, 06:13 AM

Look for reenactors with MGs. I can't recall specific units, but I know that I've seen a similar rig on a Beiwagen.

That's the best I can do for you right now.