Intro
Discover the arsenal of German World War 2 guns and firearms that played a crucial role in the war. From the iconic MP 40 submachine gun to the feared MG 42 machine gun, explore the history, development, and impact of German WWII firearms, including pistols, rifles, and artillery, and how they influenced modern weaponry.
The German military's arsenal during World War 2 was one of the most extensive and technologically advanced of its time. Among the various weapons and firearms used by the German military, some stood out for their innovation, effectiveness, and impact on the war. In this article, we will delve into the world of German World War 2 guns and firearms, exploring their development, features, and significance in the context of the war.
Developments in German Firearms
In the interwar period, the German military began to modernize and expand its arsenal, driven by the country's remilitarization and the rise of the Nazi regime. German firearms manufacturers, such as Mauser and Walther, played a crucial role in developing new designs and technologies that would eventually become iconic symbols of the German military.
One of the most significant developments in German firearms was the introduction of the 7.92x57mm Mauser cartridge, which became the standard rifle cartridge for the German military. This cartridge was designed to be more powerful and accurate than its predecessors, and it would go on to be used in many German firearms, including the famous Karabiner 98k rifle.
The Karabiner 98k Rifle
The Karabiner 98k, also known as the K98, was one of the most widely used rifles by the German military during World War 2. Developed by Mauser, the K98 was a bolt-action rifle that fired the 7.92x57mm Mauser cartridge. It was designed to be more compact and lightweight than its predecessor, the Gewehr 98, while still maintaining the same level of accuracy and reliability.
The K98 saw extensive use throughout the war, from the invasion of Poland to the final battles in Germany. It was popular among German soldiers for its reliability, accuracy, and durability, and it remains a highly sought-after collector's item among firearms enthusiasts today.
German Submachine Guns
In addition to rifles, the German military also developed and used a range of submachine guns during World War 2. One of the most famous German submachine guns was the MP 40, designed by Erma Werke.
The MP 40 was a select-fire submachine gun that fired the 9x19mm Parabellum cartridge. It was designed to be lightweight, compact, and easy to use, making it a popular choice among German soldiers for close-quarters combat and urban warfare.
The MP 40 Submachine Gun
The MP 40 was developed in the late 1930s as a replacement for the earlier MP 38 submachine gun. It was designed to be more reliable and durable than its predecessor, with a range of innovative features, including a folding stock and a 32-round magazine.
The MP 40 saw extensive use throughout the war, from the invasion of the Soviet Union to the final battles in Germany. It was popular among German soldiers for its reliability, accuracy, and firepower, and it remains a highly sought-after collector's item among firearms enthusiasts today.
German Pistols
In addition to rifles and submachine guns, the German military also used a range of pistols during World War 2. One of the most famous German pistols was the Walther P38, designed by Walther.
The Walther P38 was a semi-automatic pistol that fired the 9x19mm Parabellum cartridge. It was designed to be lightweight, compact, and easy to use, making it a popular choice among German officers and NCOs.
The Walther P38 Pistol
The Walther P38 was developed in the late 1930s as a replacement for the earlier Walther P08 pistol. It was designed to be more reliable and durable than its predecessor, with a range of innovative features, including a double-action trigger and a 8-round magazine.
The Walther P38 saw extensive use throughout the war, from the invasion of Poland to the final battles in Germany. It was popular among German officers and NCOs for its reliability, accuracy, and firepower, and it remains a highly sought-after collector's item among firearms enthusiasts today.
Gallery of German World War 2 Guns and Firearms
Gallery of German World War 2 Guns and Firearms
In conclusion, German World War 2 guns and firearms played a significant role in the war, from the invasion of Poland to the final battles in Germany. The Karabiner 98k rifle, MP 40 submachine gun, and Walther P38 pistol were just a few examples of the many firearms used by the German military during this period. These firearms were designed to be reliable, accurate, and durable, making them popular among German soldiers and officers. Today, they remain highly sought-after collector's items among firearms enthusiasts, serving as a reminder of the importance of firearms in the history of warfare.