This video delves into the history and specifics of the Hungarian G98/40 rifle, a unique firearm adopted by the German Wehrmacht during World War II. Unlike most substitute rifles, the G98/40 was not a Mauser 98 variant but a Mannlicher system. It was an adaptation of the Hungarian FEG 35M rifle, modified to chamber the German 8x57mm cartridge and accept German accessories like stripper clips, slings, and bayonets. Production spanned from 1941 to 1944, with approximately 148,400 units manufactured. The video highlights its distinctiveness from the K98k and its role as an alternative rifle for the German war effort.
This video examines the rare prototype Hungarian 33M bolt-action rifle, a precursor to the 35M. Developed after Hungary's separation from Austria-Hungary, the 33M aimed to improve upon the M95 carbine's straight-pull bolt, which could be problematic in cold weather. The prototype featured intricate machining and delicate elements like a sliding bolt dust cover and a large oil bottle in the buttstock. While these elaborate features were eventually simplified for the adopted 35M, the 33M represents a significant step in Hungarian small arms development.
This video explores the fascinating hypothetical and actual development of the FG-42 rifle chambered in 8x33mm Kurz. It details how the FG-42's designer, Louis Stange, believed this cartridge was a viable option, leading the Heereswaffenamt to convert a few first-model FG-42s for testing. The description highlights the Army's preference for the 8x33mm in the MP43/44, contrasting with the Luftwaffe's insistence on the 8x57mm for their rifle. The video also touches upon post-war Swiss experimentation with a similar concept in 7.5mm Kurz.
This video features a range test of the Yugoslav M76 rifle chambered in 8x57mm. Following a previous video on its history and mechanics, this installment focuses on live-fire performance. The channel "Forgotten Weapons" is known for its in-depth historical and technical analysis of firearms. Links to their Patreon, Floatplane, and merchandise store are provided.
This video showcases a fascinating German-captured 1910 Russian Maxim heavy machine gun that has been modified to fire 8x57mm ammunition. The analysis highlights unique modifications, including a brass jacket from a 1905 Maxim, an 'S' marking indicating 8mm, altered feed block, and the incorporation of a German MG08 lock and optics mounting bracket. Notably, the gun is presented on a rare WWI-pattern Russian Sokolov mount with both wheels and tripod legs, a variant that is difficult to find intact today. The description details the potential for the modifications to have been done by either Russian or German forces.
This video explores a Romanian-converted Schwarzlose 07/12 heavy machine gun chambered in 8x57mm. Originally an Austro-Hungarian WWI standard, many survived and were later modified by Romania with new 8x57mm barrels, lengthened water jackets and barrels, and modified rear sights. These converted guns, imported as parts kits after 1968, can be easily reassembled into functional machine guns using original 8x50mm Schwarzlose parts, offering a more shootable platform due to the availability of 8x57mm ammunition. The video details these significant modifications.
This video features the Iraqveteran8888 channel collaborating with C&Rsenal to showcase the German Maxim MG-08, a belt-fed, water-cooled machine gun from World War I. The "Devil's Paintbrush" is described as a historically significant weapon responsible for numerous casualties. The video highlights that this particular example is German-made and fires the 8x57mm cartridge. Additional content includes links to Amazon, Patreon, USCCA, their music channel, and C&Rsenal's website, as well as information on AR500 steel targets, Full30, and their social media platforms. A disclaimer emphasizes the educational and entertainment purpose of the video, with all shooting conducted safely and legally.
This video examines the prototype Gustloff MKb-42(G), also known as the Model 206, a German World War II era assault rifle development. The video delves into the chaotic nature of German arms development during the war, explaining the rationale behind the Gustloff program, including the use of the impractical 8x57mm cartridge. It details the political motivations, the comparison to the 8x33 MKb-42(H), and the eventual cancellation of the project. Two versions, the Model 206 (semiauto) and Model 208 (select-fire), are discussed, highlighting their stamped sheet metal construction, gas piston operation, and unique vertically traveling locking block. The video also notes the use of modified MG-13 magazines. It recommends Hans-Dieter Handrich's book "Sturmgewehr!" for further information.
This video delves into the history and modification of the Norwegian K98kF1 rifle. Following World War II, Norway acquired a substantial number of German K98k Mauser rifles. These were refurbished and modified for Norwegian service, including changes to the rear and front sights. A significant modification occurred in the 1950s when many of these rifles were rebarreled from 8x57mm to .30-06 Springfield to utilize U.S. supplied ammunition, receiving the designation m/K98kF1. The description also briefly mentions an abandoned later attempt to convert them to 7.62mm NATO before the G3 rifle was adopted.
This video features a range test of an Egyptian FN-49 rifle chambered in 8x57mm. The host highlights the FN-49 as a reliable autoloading battle rifle used by various countries and emphasizes its historical significance and collectibility. The video touches upon the rifle's availability in multiple calibers, including 8mm Mauser, 30-06, 7.65x53mm, 7mm Mauser, and 7.62x51mm NATO. It's presented as an interesting look at a military surplus firearm, with promises of more content to come.
This video showcases the Yugoslavian M76 rifle, a marksman's rifle comparable to the PSL and SVD, chambered in 8x57mm Mauser. The presenter uses the M76 in a 2-Gun Action Challenge match, highlighting its suitability for long-range fire but also its performance under close-quarters, non-optimal conditions. Despite the challenge of using a scoped rifle designed for distance in a fast-paced, close-range event, the M76 performed well with no malfunctions. The video touches on the rifle's high standard of fit and finish compared to the PSL, its AK-based mechanism, and the surprising effectiveness of its iron sights through the scope mount when the optic became a hindrance.
This video provides an overview of several post-World War II Egyptian rifles, showcasing their origins and development. It begins with Egypt's acquisition of Western and Communist bloc firearms, including FN49 and Czech vz52 rifles. The focus then shifts to indigenous designs: the Hakim rifle, a licensed derivative of the Swedish AG-42B Ljungman chambered in 8x57mm, and its smaller variant, the Rasheed (or Rashid), chambered in 7.62x39mm. Finally, the video touches upon Egypt's adoption of the AKM, manufactured with Soviet tooling. The presenter examines examples of all three rifle types.