This video analyzes Germany's development of semi-automatic infantry rifles during WWII, focusing on the Gewehr 43 (G43). It details the shortcomings of the earlier G41(M) and G41(W) designs, which were hampered by the Army's prohibition of barrel gas ports. The description highlights the influence of the Soviet SVT-40's gas system, which Walther adopted and refined to create the G43. The G43, later renamed the Karabiner 43 (K43), entered service in 1943 and saw significant production.
This video delves into the German Gewehr 41(W) "G41(W)" semi-automatic service rifle, focusing on its early troop trial variant. The description highlights key differences between the trial version and the later production model, most notably the presence of a push-button bolt release on the stock. The G41(W) competed against Mauser's design in 1941, with Walther's design ultimately being selected despite not strictly meeting all initial criteria. The video also mentions modifications like a lengthened bolt guide rail and the addition of optics mounting rails, though these were not widely utilized.
This video explores the German Deckungszielgerät (DZG), a periscopic rifle mount developed during World War II. Designed to adapt rifles for trench warfare reminiscent of WWI, the DZG was initially intended for the Gewehr 41(M) and 41(W). The video notes that it was later modified to fit captured Soviet SVT-40 rifles and could also accommodate the Karabiner 98k, though without a bolt-cycling mechanism. While the exact production numbers are unknown, the DZG was not widely manufactured. The example featured has been restored, and surviving units lack serial numbers or manufacturer codes.
This video delves into the General Liu rifle, China's early attempt at an indigenous semi-automatic infantry rifle before World War II. Designed by General Liu himself, the rifle utilized a gas-trap mechanism similar to the Danish Bang rifle. The Hanyang Arsenal was set to produce it, with machinery contracted from Pratt & Whitney. Despite successful testing of sample rifles, the project faltered due to General Liu's incapacitation before the production tooling arrived. The machinery was eventually repurposed, and the General Liu rifle never entered widespread production. The video also references related gas-operated rifles like the M1 Garand, Gewehr 41, and Pedersen designs for comparison.
This video delves into the "Prototype Gustloff 206 Rifle," a rare German semi-automatic firearm developed during World War II. The description highlights the chaotic nature of German arms development during the era, with competing policies and independent procurement systems. The Gustloff 206, noted for its sheet metal construction, gas piston system, and vertically traveling locking block, emerged as one of the Gustloff concern's better designs following trials for the Gewehr 41. The video also touches upon its potential relation to the FG-42 project and its feeding mechanism, using cut-down MG-13 magazines.
This video focuses on the Walther Gewehr 41 (G41(W)), a German semi-automatic rifle from WWII. The description highlights its mechanical complexity, specifically the "bang" gas trap operating system. It notes the rifle's known unreliability, particularly with corrosive ammunition and fouling. The video aims to demonstrate how the G41 shoots despite these challenges. Thanks are extended to Ventura Munitions for their support.
This video offers a slow-motion look at the Gewehr 43 (G43) rifle. The description details its intended role as the Wehrmacht's standard infantry rifle, its production limitations, and its eventual replacement by the Sturmgewehr concept. Mechanically, the G43 is noted for its flap-locking system derived from the Gewehr 41 and a gas pistol system influenced by the Soviet SVT-38/40. A key point is the common issue of over-gassing, which is addressed by an "shooter's kit" modification from Apfeltor to ensure reliability without damaging parts during extended use, especially in adverse conditions.
This video from Forgotten Weapons delves into the history and operation of the German Gewehr 43 (G43) semi-automatic rifle. It explains the German ordnance's search for a self-loading rifle to supplement the K98k, detailing the initial development of the Gewehr 41(W) and Gewehr 41(M) with their gas-trap systems. The video highlights the shortcomings of the gas-trap system in combat and how Walther's improved design, incorporating a short-stroke gas piston inspired by the Soviet SVT-40, led to the successful G43. Approximately 400,000 G43s were manufactured by the end of World War II.
This video dives into the history and design of the German Gewehr 41 (Walther) rifle from WWII. It highlights the innovative spirit of German engineers but also details the significant design flaws imposed by military requirements, particularly the prohibition of a gas port in the barrel. The video contrasts the Walther G41 with the later, more successful G43, explaining how the latter addressed the critical issues. Despite its flaws, the G41's development is presented as a testament to engineering creativity under restrictive conditions, stemming from a pre-war distrust of self-loading rifles.
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