This video explores the WF-54, a Swiss self-loading rifle developed by Waffenfabrik Bern as a potential successor to the K-31. It was based on the German FG-42 and initially designed for an intermediate cartridge, but later iterations, including the WF-54, adopted the standard 7.5x55mm GP11. The rifle's development program ultimately lost to the SIG Stgw-57. The video features footage and disassembly of a WF-54 from the Royal Armouries collection.
This video provides a detailed look at the WF-51, a Swiss rifle developed by Waffenfabrik Bern as an intermediate-cartridge derivative of the German FG-42. The analysis highlights the design changes, particularly the adoption of a tilting bolt instead of the FG-42's rotating bolt, and its use of a 7.5x38mm intermediate cartridge. The WF-51 was part of Bern's effort to create a new self-loading rifle post-WWII, a program that ultimately lost to the SIG program which produced the Stgw-57. The video showcases the rifle's manufacturing quality and offers a close examination of its mechanics, thanking the Royal Armouries for access to their collection.
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 analyzes the Swiss 1929 Simplified Luger, a variation of the iconic Luger pistol. The description highlights Switzerland's history with the Luger, starting with DWM imports and transitioning to domestic production at Waffenfabrik Bern. The 1929 model, which entered production in 1934, incorporated production simplifications and cost-saving measures compared to earlier models. Key mechanical changes included a lengthened grip safety, simplified grip strap profile, removal of some knurling, and fewer serialized parts, along with the addition of a production date stamp. Approximately 28,000 were made for the military and a smaller number for the civilian market.
This video delves into the Swiss Tankbuchse 41 (TB-41), a 24x139mm semi-automatic anti-tank rifle developed by Adolph Furrer for Waffenfabrik Bern. Originally intended for light tanks, the TB-41 featured a short recoil toggle-locked action, similar to Furrer's other designs. It fired both high-explosive and armor-piercing rounds with impressive velocity and penetration capabilities for its time. The rifle was designed for rapid fire, utilizing 6-round magazines that auto-ejected. Despite its advanced design and production of over 3,500 units, the TB-41 never saw combat and was largely relegated to fortress use. The video explores its specifications, operational mechanics, and historical context.
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