This video from Forgotten Weapons delves into Hitler's Zipper, the MG-42 Universal Machine Gun. It highlights the MG-42's development as a more reliable and manufacturable successor to the MG-34, emphasizing its use of heavy stampings to reduce reliance on scarce alloyed steels. The video points out the MG-42's significantly higher rate of fire (1500-1600 rpm) compared to the MG-34, its impact on ammunition consumption, and its effectiveness in providing suppressing fire. The presented example is identified as an early production Gustloff model with distinct features like a horizontal charging handle and an unreinforced wooden stock, likely captured from Rommel's forces in North Africa.
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 features a shooting and disassembly of the Volksturmgewehr Gustloff, often misidentified as the VG1-5. Developed in late World War II for the German Volksturm, only a few thousand were produced. The rifle is semi-automatic, chambered in 7.92x33 Kurz (the same cartridge as the MP44/StG44), and uses the MP44/StG44 magazine. Its mechanism is described as a hybrid between direct blowback and delayed blowback, with a functional delaying feature. The video aims to debunk a common internet belief about this rare firearm.
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