Post by Christopher J. D'Dario on Nov 6, 2010 11:26:45 GMT
I know the shop has a short description of the weapons sold in it, but I was bored so I decided to put this together. It just got a short history of the shop weapons with some added Specifications. Could come in handy at some point, or just interesting to know.
Chapter one: Allied Infantry Weapons
American
M1 Garand:
The M1 has seen service in the US Army since 1936 and is still in use today for ceremonial and training purposes. It was the first semi-automatic rifle to be issued to standard infantry but was first issued only to elite and special forces, it has seen combat not only in WWII but also in the Korean war, the Arab – Israeli War and the Vietnam War. It was designed in 1932 and manufactured by a range of companies, most famous being Springfield Armoury and Winchester, between 1936 and 1957 approximately 6 Million where manufactured.
Specifications
Weight: 5.3 kg (11.6 lb)
Length: 1,104.9 mm (43.5 in)
Ammo: .30 Calibre Springfield (7.62x63mm) 8 round clips.
Action: Gas-operated, rotating bolt.
Range: 402 m (440 yards)
M1918 Browning automatic rifle:
The M1918A2 BAR saw service in multiple armies but was originally served the US army. It was designed in 1918 and remained in service until the 1960s, originally designed as a ‘walking fire’ weapon it was used more as a light machinegun. However its small clip limited its use as an effective support weapon. It saw use in many wars ranging from WWI and WWII too the Korean War and even saw use in the Vietnam War. It was built by a massive range of manufacturers including Colt, Winchester and FN Herstal, despite this however between 1917 and the 1950s only just over 100 000 of the M1918 were ever produced.
Specifications
Weight: 7.25kg (15.98 lb)
Length: 1,194 mm (47 in)
Ammo: .30 Calibre Springfield (7.62x63mm) 20 round box magazine.
Action: Gas-operated, tilting break lock.
Range: 1371.5 m (1500 yards)
Rate of Fire: 500 RPM
M1 Carbine:
The M1 Carbine was a semi-automatic rifle that saw use mostly with the US Army. Originally designed in 1938 the rifle went though a vigorous testing phase before the final M1 design was set into mass production in 1941. It saw service from 1942 and lasted into the 1960s, seeing combat in WWII, Korea and the Vietnam War. It was manufactured by a collection of Military Contractors and over 6.25 million Carbines where produced between 1941 and 1945.
Specifications
Weight: 2.4 kg (5.2 lb)
Length: 900 mm (35.6 in)
Ammo: .30 Calibre Carbine (7.62x33mm) 15 round box magazine
Action: Gas-Operated, rotating bolt.
Range: 274 m (300 yards)
Thompson Sub-machinegun:
The Thompson sub machinegun or ‘Tommy Gun’ was an American Sub machinegun designed in 1919. Despite being around for a few decades the weapon did not see use in the US army until 1938 though to 1971. Primarily designed as a civilian weapon it saw limited use in WWI, but earned the nickname ‘Trench Sweeper’ for obvious reasons. However the Marines first adopted it as a point-defence weapon for the Banana Wars before being intergraded into the army in time for WWII. The Tommy gun fought in countless wars and proved itself time and time again as a reliable close quarters weapon. It was originally manufactured by the Auto-Ordinance Company and from 1921 produced over 1.7 million of the weapons.
Specifications:
Weight: 4.9kg (10.8lb)
Length: 851 mm (33.5 in)
Ammo: .45 ACP (11.43x23 mm) 20 round stick magazine
Action: Blowback
Range: 50 m (54.7 yards)
Rate of Fire: 600 RPM
1911 Colt Pistol:
The M1911 Colt pistol was (Obviously) a pistol used by the American forces since 1911. It was the standard issue pistol for officers and its variants are still widely used today in police forces and militia. Its design changed very little though out the decades and it is a popular belief that the 1911 Colt’s firing system was a major stepping stone towards the firing systems used in pistols today. It saw service in WWI and WWII and many wars after and it is still used in the Afghanistan – Iraqi War. It was manufactured mainly by Springfield Armoury and well over 2 million have been produced.
Specifications:
Weight: 1.1 kg (2.44 lb)
Length: 210 mm (8.25 in)
Ammo: .45 ACP (11.43x23 mm) 7 round internal clip
Action: Short Recoil Operation
Range: 50 m (54.7 yards)
Springfield Scoped Rifle:
The M1903 Springfield rifle has been the favoured weapon of marksmen since its adoption into the army in 1905 and remained in service until 1957. Originally a standard issue rifle for troops in WWI and WWII due to a lack of M1 Garands at the start of the war. Even though the M1 Garand outclassed the older Springfield, the bolt-action rifles accuracy would not be waisted and many where converted into effective sniper rifles and between 1903 and 1957 Springfield Armoury produced over 2 million of these weapons.
Specifications:
Weight: 3.9 kg (8.69 lb)
Length: 1,115mm (43.9 in)
Ammo: .30 Calibre Springfield (7.62x63mm) 5 round clip magazine
Action: Bolt-Action
Range: 2,300m (2,500 yards) / 4.47 km (2.77 miles) at 45 degree angle
M3A1 Grease Gun
The M3A1 (Originally M3) was a sub machinegun used by the US army from 1942 to 1992. Throughout its service it began to replace the Thompson SMG due to its cost effective design and ease of mass production. It saw use in WWII and Vietnam and is still used by some countries today, mainly by their special forces. Its main manufacture, General Motors, was able to produce around 700 000 weapons between its service dates for no more then $20 US per unit.
Specifications:
Weight: 3.47 kg (7.65 lb)
Length: 756.9 mm (29.8 in) Stock extended
Ammo: .45 ACP (9x19mm Parabellum) 30 round box magazine
Action: Blowback, open bolt
Range: 50 m (54.7 yards)
Rate of Fire: 450 RPM
.30 Calibre Browning Machinegun
The M1919 Browning machinegun was used in a wide variety of roles in the US military, designed in 1919 it was an infantry carried support gun, a mounted anti-infantry weapon mostly on jeeps, an anti-air gun and was also mounted on smaller aircraft. It was a truly versatile weapon that made an impact in the many wars it was used and is still common today in most armies as a mounted support weapon. Between 1919 and 1945 well over 500 000 where produced, its main manufacture was General Motors.
Specifications:
Weight: 14kg (31 lb)
Length: 964 mm (37.94 in)
Ammo: .30 Calibre Springfield (7.62x63mm) 250 round belt
Action: Recoil Operated
Range: 1,370 m (1,500 yards)
Rate of Fire: 400 RPM
Frag Grenade:
The Mk 2 Defensive hand grenade “Pineapple” was a timed fuse grenade used by American infantry from 1920 though to the 1960s. It was normally filled with TNT or a Blank fire powder that detonated a short time after the pin was pulled and the spoon removed. The grooves cut into the side of the grenade that gave it its pineapple appearance where believed to help with the fragmentation of the casing, however the grooves had the fortunate side affect of enabling the thrower to grip the grenade better. It was produced by almost every arms company in the US and untold millions where manufactured.
Specifications:
Weight: 45 g (1 lb)
Filling: TNT/Blank fire powder
Detonation: Timed fuse approximately 5 seconds
Browning High Power
The same man, John Browning, who designed the Colt 1911 in the US, designed the Browning high power semi-automatic pistol, but the Browning was improved and built mainly in Belgium by Farbrique Nationale in 1935. The Browning is still used toady and saw action in almost every war since its development. Well over 1 million where built between 1914 and 1935.
Specifications:
Weight: 1 kg (2.19 lb)
Length: 197 mm (7.8 in)
Ammo: 9mm (9x19mm Parabellum) 13 round internal clip
Action: Short recoil operated
Range: 50 m (54.7 yards)
M1941 Johnson LMG
The M1941 Johnson LMG was a revolutionary weapon, originally designed in 1937 with the specific purpose to outclass the M1 Garand its Semi-automatic version proved to be the less popular of the two. The in-line stock of the M41 inspired the construction of many more advanced weapons including the M16, it had a higher accuracy rating then most automatic weapons of its class despite the overly long clip weighing down the left side of the gun. Between 1940 and 1945 only 9500 where manufactured, the designer of the weapon, Mr Melvin Johnson Jr, produced it himself.
Specifications:
Weight: 5.9 kg (13 lb)
Length: 1,067 mm (42 in)
Ammo: .30 Calibre Springfield (7.62x63mm) 20 clip magazine
Action: short recoil
Range: 1400 m (1500 yards)
Rate of Fire: 200 / 600 RPM
Reising M50
The Reising M50 was an American designed sub-machinegun built between 1941 and 1953 by Harrington & Richardson. Only 100 000 of the guns were ever produced and it mainly saw action in the Navy, Marine Corps and Coast Guard.
Specifications:
Weight: 3.1 kg (6.83 lb)
Length: 959 mm (37.8 in)
Ammo: .45 ACP (9x19mm Parabellum) 20 round box magazine
Action: Delayed blowback, closed bolt
Range: 50 m (54.7 yards)
Rate of Fire: 550 RPM
1911 Colt Machine Pistol:
The M1911 Colt machine pistol was never mass produced, in fact its prototype was only released just before the end of the war. Paving the way for future machine pistols, the Colt company had to upgrade the materials used in construction to handle the rapid fire. This however increased the cost and with most fully automatic weapons of the time being all but uncontrollable the development and production of Colt's Machine Pistol was constantly being put on hold, the simple reason being there was no urgent need for a rapid firing pistol.
Specifications:
Weight: 1.1 kg (2.44 lb)
Length: 210 mm (8.25 in)
Ammo: .45 ACP (11.43x23 mm) 20 round extended clip
Action: Short Recoil Operation
Range: 50 m (54.7 yards)
Rate of Fire: 450 RPM
Thompson Light Rifle
The Thompson Light Rifle was the Auto-Ordnance's attempt to build an assault rifle for the US army. Essentially it was a Thompson Sub-Machinegun with an extended barrel shroud but was built from pressed steel components to reduce the cost and improve production. It had selective fire and proved to be more reliable and accurate then the M1 Carbine, despite this the weapon didn't see mass production. Only 200 were produced before the end of the war.
Specifications:
Weight: 4.9kg (10.8lb)
Length: 851 mm (33.5 in)
Ammo: .45 ACP (11.43x23 mm) 30 round magazine
Action: Blowback
Range: 100 m (110.7 yards)
Rate of Fire: 800 RPM
Commonwealth
Lee Enfield MK4
The British Empire adopted this rifle as its standard issue weapon in 1895 and it remained the standard issue weapon up until 1957 when the L1A1 SLR replaced it. It was deadly accurate weapon that served the British Empire and Commonwealth Armies well, in fact the Lee Enfield remains the standard issue weapon in some Commonwealth countries, making it the worlds longest serving bolt action rifle. It was designed and built in the Royal Small Arms Factory witch produced well over 17 million of these tough and reliable weapons. In many cases the Lee Enfield was converted into a sniper rifle by attaching a scope. This weapon has been in almost every major and conflict the world has seen since 1895.
Specifications:
Weight: 4 kg (8.8 lb)
Length: 1,130 mm (44.5 in)
Ammo: .303 British, (7.7x56mmR) 10 round magazine
Action: Bolt Action
Range: 503 m (550 yards)
P.I.A.T.
The Projector, Infantry, Anti-Tank was a weaponed developed as an answer to the British question “How are we meant to kill that?” when infantry found themselves under heavy Panzer attack. Thus Imperial Chemical Industries answered with 115 000 P.I.A.T’s in 1942 and they remained in the service of the British and Commonwealth armies until the 1950s. The P.I.A.T was unique in that it used the spigot mortar system to launch its projectiles, rather then directly igniting a small explosive rocket to sent its missile towards its target, the P.I.A.T used a large spring to launch its deadly payload out.
Specifications:
Weight: 15 kg (32 lb)
Length: 990.6 mm (39 in)
Ammo: HEAT projectiles
Detonation: Impact
Range: 90 m (100 yards)
Trench-Gun
The Winchester model 1897 was a pump action shot-gun that saw service in a variety of armed forces, originally American in design and manufacture, it grew in popularity with the British and Commonwealth troops for its spread shot and was used mainly in trench warfare, thus it was most commonly known simply as a Trench-gun. Between 1897 and 1957 the Winchester Repeating Arms Company produced well over 1 million shotguns.
Specifications:
Weight: 3.6 kg (8 lb)
Length: 1000 mm (39 in)
Ammo: 12-gauge shotgun shells 5 round internal tube magazine
Action: pump action
Range: 20 m (22 yards)
Bren LMG
The Bren Gun (As it was best known) was the Commonwealths most famous and recognizable light machine gun ever built. Adopted by Britain in the 1930s this weapon saw continued service in multiple conflicts right up until the 1990s. A reliable and tough weapon it was able to send a small hail of bullets towards the enemies of the Commonwealth, the earlier models however had to have interchangeable barrels for when sustained fire overheated the weapon. The Royal Small Arms Factory manufactured a rough 250 000 machineguns between 1935 and 1971.
Specifications:
Weight: 10.35 kg (22.83 lb)
Length: 1,156 mm (42.9 in)
Ammo: .303 British, (7.7x56mm) 20 round Box magaizine
Action: Gas operated, tilting bolt
Range: 550 m (600 yards)
Rate of Fire: 500 RPM
Vickers heavy machinegun
The Vickers heavy machinegun was a very solid and reliable weapon, able to lay down suppressing fire over a large area, one of its main drawback however was the need of an eight man crew. One to fire, one to reload and the other six where needed to carry the weapon and all its accessories, such as spare parts and extra ammunition. Despite this the Vickers was probably the most reliable machinegun available, rarely jamming or breaking down. The Vickers remained in service from 1912 though to 1968 and was put to use in many wars. Manufactured by Vickers the company produced well over 200 000 throughout its service decades.
Specifications:
Weight: 15 kg (33.07 lb)
Length: 1,100 mm (43.31 in.)
Ammo: 303 British, (7.7x56mm) 250 round canvas belt
Action: recoil with gas boost, water cooled
Range: 2000 m (2,187 yd)
Rate of Fire: 450 RPM
Webley revolver
The Webley Break Top revolver was the standard issue sidearm for British and Commonwealth officers during its service period of 1887 though to 1963. This powerful hand cannon was both feared and respected throughout its military years and has since been adopted by police forces in several countries. Manufactured by Webley & Scott there was approximately 125 000 revolvers produced between 1887 and 1923.
Specifications:
Weight: 1.1 kg (2.4 lb)
Length: 286 mm (11.25 in)
Ammo: .445 Webley Mk II Six shooter revolver
Action: Double Action revolver
Range: 45 m (50 yards)
Sten SMG
The Sten Gun was a British built sub machinegun used by a wide range of Commonwealth troops, they where cheap and easy to mass produce witch saw the Royal Small Arms Factory and others manufacturing 4.6 million of the SMG’s between 1941 and the 1960s. It was one of the most widespread sub machineguns, seeing action in countless conflicts and spreading to resistance groups that still use them today. Due to its simple nature the Sten was continually modified by whatever military got their hands on it, with over 20 varieties of the weapon existing.
Specifications:
Weight: 3.2 kg (7.1 lb)
Length: 760 mm (29.9 in)
Ammo: 9mm (9x19mm Parabellum) 32 round stick magazine
Action: blowback operated, open bolt
Range: 60 m (65 yards)
Rate of Fire: 500 RPM
De Lisle Carbine
The De Lisle Carbine “Commando Carbine” was a British Special Forces weapon; it was limited in its use as it was only available to elite infiltration troops due to the Carbines noise suppressor. The suppressor was so effective that working the bolt to load in a fresh round was actually louder then the shot. It only saw action in WWII and Korea, and it was easily concealed thanks to a folding stock. Only 129 of these deathly silent weapons where produced by the Sterling Armaments Company in 1942 to 1945.
Specifications:
Weight: 3.74 kg (8 lb)
Length: 894 mm (40.5 in)
Ammo: .45 ACP (9x19mm) 7 round magazine
Action: Bolt action
Range: 185 m (200 yards)
Lanchester SMG
The Lanchester SMG was built around a design stolen from the Germans, but it was rarely used against them, the Navy and Air Force mainly used the Lanchester. The Army saw very little of the British version of the weapon despite nearly 100 000 of them being manufactured by the Sterling Armaments Company between 1941 and 1945.
Specifications:
Weight: 4.34 kg (9.57 lb)
Length: 851 mm (33.5 in)
Ammo: .45 ACP (9x19mm Parabellum) 32 round stick magazine
Action: Blowback, open bolt
Range: 150 m (164 yards)
Rate of Fire: 600 RPM
Welrod
The Welrod was a silenced pistol used extensively by ‘irregular’ forces and resistance soldiers. Joining the De Lisle as a suppressed weapon it was not uncommon for infiltrators to be equipped with the Welrod as a sidearm. Originally designed to be close combat secret service weapon, the manufactures have remained silent about who produced it, only one company has come forward and admitted to building a few of these weapons. Researchers estimate the number of units produced to be around 2,800.
Specifications:
Weight: 1.5 kg (3.3 lb)
Length: 32 mm (12 in)
Ammo: 9mm (9x19mm subsonic) 6 round magazines
Action: Bolt action
Range: 23 m (25 yards)
Thompson Sub-machinegun
The Thompson sub machinegun or ‘Tommy Gun’ was an American Sub machinegun designed in 1919. Despite being around for a few decades the weapon did not see use in the US army until 1938 though to 1971. The British and Commonwealth forces adopted the weapon for use with their commando unites during the war. It was originally manufactured by the Auto-Ordinance Company and from 1921 produced over 1.7 million of the weapons.
Specifications:
Weight: 4.9kg (10.8lb)
Length: 851 mm (33.5 in)
Ammo: .45 ACP (11.43x23 mm) 20 round stick magazine
Action: Blowback
Range: 50 m (54.7 yards)
Rate of Fire: 600 RPM
Frag Grenade
The Mk 2 Defensive hand grenade “Pineapple” was a timed fuse grenade used by Commonwealth infantry from 1920 though to the 1960s. It was normally filled with TNT or a Blank fire powder that detonated a short time after the pin was pulled and the spoon removed. The grooves cut into the side of the grenade that gave it its pineapple appearance where believed to help with the fragmentation of the casing, however the grooves had the fortunate side affect of enabling the thrower to grip the grenade better. It was produced by almost every arms company in the US and untold millions where manufactured.
Specifications:
Weight: 45 g (1 lb)
Filling: TNT/Blank fire powder
Detonation: Timed fuse approximately 5 seconds
Browning Hi Power
The same man, John Browning, who designed the Colt 1911 in the US, designed the Browning high power semi-automatic pistol, but the Browning was improved and built mainly in Belgium by Farbrique Nationale in 1935. However when it became apparent that the FN factory was about to be captured the designs where sent to the British Military and they continued production of the pistol. The Browning is still used toady and saw action in almost every war since its development. Well over 1 million where built between 1914 and 1935.
Specifications:
Weight: 1 kg (2.19 lb)
Length: 197 mm (7.8 in)
Ammo: 9mm (9x19mm Parabellum) 13 round internal clip
Action: Short recoil operated
Range: 50 m (54.7 yards)
Charlton Automatic Rifle
The low numbers of machineguns at the start of the war caused a New Zealander Philip Charlton to work on converting a Lee Enfield into a light rapid firing weapon that would be able to both give suppressive fire and be used as an assault rifle. Over 1500 weapons were produced in New Zealand but in an unfortunate accident most of them were lost in a fire at a storage facility shortly after the war.
Specifications:
Weight: 7.35 kg (16.83 lb)
Length: 1,150 mm (44.5 in)
Ammo: .303 British, (7.7x56mm) 30 round Box magaizine
Action: Gas operated, Semi-automatic
Range: 550 m (600 yards)
Rate of Fire: 500 RPM
Russian
Mosin-Nagant
The Three-Line Rifle or Mosin-Nagant was the standard issue weapon for the conscripts and soldiers of the Russian army. Designed in 1891 by Emile Nagant and later refined (and greatly improved) by Sergei Ivanovich Mosin, it was given the official name of the Three-Line Rifle. Three-Line being the term used for the 7.62x54mm rounds it fired. Initialy Mosin was the only one given credit for the weapon, but after a massive legal battle over the rights to the pay off for the weapon Nagant was also recognised as the rifles disginer. The weapon was never officialy called the Mosin-Nagant by the Russians, its new name only appeared in western litriture due to the massive legal battle fought between Mosin and Nagant and has since been used to refer to the weapon. The Three-Line rifle was put into production in 1892 and over 37 million of the weapons where produced before 1965 by the Tula Arsenal, Izhevsk Arsenal and the Sestroryetsk Arsenal weapons companies. A sniper version was disigned but the magazine could only be loaded one round at a time though the breach. The rifle has seen use in over 20 major conflicts and is still used today by some milita.
Specifications:
Weight: 4 kg (8.8lbs)
Length: 1,287 mm (50.7 in)
Ammo: 7.62x54mmR (Rimmed) 5 round stripper clip.
Action: Bolt-action
Range: 500 m (550 yards) 750+ m (With scope)
AVS-36
The Avtomaticheskaya Vintovka Simonova was disigned in 1936 by Sergei Simonov who had been working on disigning the weapon since 1930. Unfortunaly, the weapon encountered many problems in the field and was considered uncontrolable when being used as a full automatic. Only 65 800 where built before it was deemed unfit for service and removed from production in 1938.
Specifications:
Weight: 4.3 kg (9.5lb)
Length: 1,230mm (48 in)
Ammo: 7.62x54mmR (Rimmed) 15 round magazine
Action: Gas operated, tilting-bolt
Range: 150 m (164 yards)
Rate of Fire: 800 RPM
SVT-40
The Samozaryadnaya Vintovka Tokareva was designed in 1940 by Fedor Tokarev. It was an improved design of the SVT-38, the rifle that had replaced the AVS-36 with the hopes that it would become the new standard issue weapon for the Russian army. However by 1940 a few problems with the weapon kept it from becoming standard issue, such as its length and weight, plus the small problem that was created when the magazine fell out of the weapon if bumped too hard. Thus the SVT-38 was improved and the SVT-40 was born in 1940 and production of the Mosin-Nagant was ceased. It was destend to become the standard issue weapon for the Russians but a large shipment (numbering the hundreds of thousands) was lost and the army had no choice but to put the Mosin-Nagant back into production. Tula Arsenal, Izhevsk Arsenal and the Sestroryetsk Arsenal collectivaly manufactured 1.6 million SVT-40’s and the rifles continued service up until 1955.
Specifications:
Weight: 3.85 kg (8.5 lb)
Length: 1226 mm (48 in)
Ammo: 7.62x54mmR (Rimmed) 10 round magazine
Action: Semi-automatic
Range: 500 m (550 yards)
PPS-42
The Pistolet-pulemjot Sudaeva was a very light and versitial sub-machinegun desigened specifically to ease the pressure off the manufaction of the PPSh-41. The PPS-42 was in all rights very similer to the PPSh-41 save for its simpiler disigen. The PPS-42 proved to be a very cost effective submachine gun, cutting down production costs and time by over 50% compared to the PPSh-41 and the Arsenal’s signed to manufacture it where able to put out 350 000 a month between 1942 and 1968. Due to its simpiler nature and ease of cleaning it became the prefered SMG of the Russian infantry dispite its lower rate of fire from the PPSh-41.
Specifications:
Weight: 2.95 kg (6.5 lb)
Length: 907 mm (35.7 in)
Ammo: 7.62x25mm (Tokarev) 35 round magazine
Action: Blow back, open bolt, automatic.
Range: 150 m (164 yards)
Rate of Fire: 600 RPM
PPSh-41
The Pistolet-Pulemyot Shpagina was a more cost efective answer to the PPD-40 and was one of the most mass-produced and well-known submachine guns in WWII. The weapon was so in demand that failure to meet production quotas was met with harsh punishments, dispite this a coalition of factories in Moscow only produced 6 million of the weapons. Like any weapon it had its fallbacks, such as the accedental discharge of a few rounds if dropped, but over all it was a reliable and tough weapon.
Specifications:
Weight: 3.63 kg (8 lb)
Length: 843 mm (33.2 in)
Ammo: 7.62x25mm (Tokarev) 71 round drum magazine
Action: Blow back, open bolt, automatic
Range: 185 m (200 yards)
Rate of Fire: 900 RPM
DP light machinegun
The Pulemyot Degtyaryova Pekhotny light machinegun or “Record player” as it was nicknamed by the allies was the easiest and cheapest machinegun ever to be manufactured. Originaly designed in 1928 the first modles of this gun only had 80 parts and could be dissasembeled, cleaned and reassembeled as easily as firing the weapon. Due to its rugged disigen the DP could even be buired under sand and mud and still be able to fire without worry, the only real problem with the weapon was mounting it, as its bipod would easily break under the abuse the gun was put through, many machineguners didn’t even bother with the bipod, and opted to using rocks or some other means of supporting the gun. The other drawback was the “pan” magasine that fed the top of the weapon, it took more time then the soldier manning it would have liked to change the pans over, and reloading the empty pans was a pain. From 1927 up to the 1950’s 800 000 DP machineguns where manufactured and they saw use in multiple conflicts around the world.
Specifications:
Weight: 9.12 kg (20.11 lb)
Length: 1,270 mm (50 in
Ammo: 7.62x54mmR (Rimmed) 47 round Pan magazine
Action: Gas operated, automatic
Range: 800 m
Rate of Fire: 600RPM
PTRD-41
The ProtivoTankovoye Ruzhyo Degtyaryova was designed as an anti-tank rifle in 1941. Dispite its high calibure rounds the weapon mostly failed as an anti-tank weapon at any range greater then 100 meters, for it to have had any real hope of peircing the armour of a German tank the crew had to practicaly be next to the target and even then the round could just shatter against the armour. Failing as an anti-tank weapon the rifle did see success in taking out lighter armoured vehicles such as halftracks and small armoured cars. However, the crew could normally only get one shot at their target before having to relocate or retreat entirely as the massive muzzle flash from the weapon would instantly give away their position to any survivors. The Degtyaryova Plant produced aproximatly 100 000 of the weapons between 1941 and 1945.
Specifications:
Weight: 17.3 kg (38.1 lbs)
Length: 2,020 mm (79.5 in.)
Ammo: 14.5x114mm rounds
Action: Single shot, bolt action
Range: 3000 – 8000 m (3282 – 8752 yards)
PTRS-41
The PTRS-41 or “Simonov” was meant to be an improved version of the PTRD, however the only real change was a magazine built under the bolt. Other then the increased ammo capacity and semi-automatic action the weapon didn’t change and the new magazine meant a higher chance residue build up and jamming.
Specifications:
Weight: 20.3 kg (46lbs)
Length: 2100 mm (83 in)
Ammo: 14.5x114mm 5 round magazine
Action: Gas operated, semi-automatic
Range: 3000 – 8000 m (3282 – 8752 yards)
TT-33
The TT-30 was designed to replace the Nagant M1895 revolver that had been adopted as the standard side arm of the Russian army. All though the TT-30 was of sound make and had passed all field tests with flying colours, before production entered full swing its design was modified in order to simplify the manufacture of the pistol. The TT-33 proved to be a reliable and tough weapon, similar to the FN03 automatic pistol the TT-33 had more improvements built into it, such as feed lips on the receiver that prevented damage and jamming from a bad reload, all in all making the pistol a popular sidearm. 1.7 million where produced by Talu Arsenal and other weapon companies and the pistol is still in service today.
Specifications:
Weight: 854 g (30.12 oz)
Length: 194 mm (7.6 in)
Ammo: 7.62x25mm (Tokarev) 8 round magazine
Action: Locked breach, semi-automatic
Range: 60 m (65 yards)
Grenade (Russian)
The F-1 Fugasnaya (High Explosive) frag grenade was designed in 1942, it has a very similar design and operating system to that of the American Mk2 hand grenade.
Specifications:
Weight: 45 g (1 lb)
Filling: TNT
Detonation: Timed fuse approximately 4 seconds
SKS
The Samozaryadnyj Karabin sistemy Simonova rifle is a scaled down version of the PTRS-41 Anti-Tank rifle that fires a 7.62x39mm round. Unfortunately the weapon was only in its early experimentation stages by the end of the war, but when it was put into mass production it became the Soviets standard front line rifle, only to be replaced shortly after by the AK47. However after its initial design in 1944 over 15,000,000 SKS rifles were produced.
Specifications:
Weight: 3.85 kg (8 lb 8 oz)
Length: 1,021 mm (40.2 in)
Ammo: 7.62x39mm 10 round stripper clip
Action: Short stroke gas piston, tilting bolt, self-loading
Range: 500 (550 yd)
Rate of Fire: Semi-Automatic
Chapter Two: Axis Infantry Weapons
German
Mauser Karabiner 98k
The Karabiner 98k (Kurz) was the standard issue rifle to the German Wehrmacht during WWII and was the final design in a long line of Mauser weapons. The 98k was an upgraded version of the 98b, witch had a longer barrel and was only named a Karabiner (Carbine) in name alone. The 98k was a reliable and accuate weapon that prooved itself to be tough and easy to maintaine, it could have a scope easily attatched for use as a sniper rifle and could launch grenades much like the M1 Garand. Designed and manufactured in 1935 by Mauser factories almost 15 million where produced before the factories halted production at the end of the war in 1945. The weapon has seen use in most conflicts since its creation and is still in wide use today, maily used in cerimonies.
Specifications:
Weight: 3.7 kg (8.2 lb)
Length: 1,110 mm (43.70 in)
Ammo: 7.92x57mm IS (Infantry Standard) 5 round stripper clip
Action: Bolt action
Range: 500 m (550 yards)
Gewehr 43k
Before the Gewehr 43k was standardised it began as the G41M, a Mauser made rifle, and the G41W a Walther arms weapon. Both companies practically competed with each other to produce the better semi-automatic rifle for use by the German military. The G41M was a horrible failure, only 12 000 where built before it was scrapped and the G41W pulled ahead for production but it still suffered from reliability problems. Further modifications brought the G41k up to standard and was renamed the Gewehr 43k. The weapon was never mass produced due to continued reliability issues and it was only intended to be used by designated marksmen, only 400 000 rifles where built by Walther Arms between 1943 and 1945 and has seen limited use in other conflicts.
Specifications:
Weight: 4.1 kg (9.7 lb)
Length: 1130 mm (44.4 in)
Ammo: 7.92x57mm (Mauser) 10 round magazine
Action: Gas operated, semi automatic
Range: 500 m (550 yards)
MP40 SMG
The Maschinenpistole 40 was a very reliable sub machine gun used mainly by paratroopers or NCO’s and Officers. A simple and effective weapon it was the answer to the German armies needs for a tough, reliable and accuate submachinegun, orriginaly the MP18 (The first ever mass produced submachinegun) used in WWI it went though several modifications in order to simplify its construction and reduce costs. Only 1 million where produced between 1940 and 1945 and has seen limited use in other wars.
Specifications:
Weight: 4 kg (8.82 lb)
Length: 833 mm (32.8 in)
Ammo: 9x19mm (Parabellum) 32 round magazine
Action: open bolt, automatic
Range: 90 m (100 yards)
Rate of Fire: 550 RPM
Luger Pistol
The P08 Pistole-Parabellum, or more commonly known as the Luger for its creator, Georg Luger. Was a favoured pistol of the officer class in the German Army and was truly unique in its design. Unlike other semi-automatic pistols that used a sliding breach to eject empty shells and load a fresh round into the chamber, the P08’s entire barrel slid back from the force of the recoil. Using a toggle and breach mechanism the pistol relied heavily on the recoil of the bullet exiting the barrel to eject and load a new bullet, as the barrel travelled backwards the “Knee Joint” folds back before snapping forward again and pushing the next bullet into the chamber. The action only takes a fraction of a second, but requires high-pressure bullets for it to work properly. If low pressure are used it could cause the weapon to jam simply because the bullet doesn’t have the power needed to push the barrel back far enough. There where many variants of the Luger built for different uses in separate areas of military service, one of the better-known variants is the Lange Pisole 08 (Long Pistol) or Artillery Pistol. Used as a personal defence weapon by German artillery crews, the Lange Pistol featured a longer barrel and an attachable stock and could be fitted with a 32 round drum magazine, effectively turning the pistol into a short Carbine. Between 1908 and 1945 well over Six Million where produced by Mauser and an assortment of German weapons companies. The pistol has fallen out of service use but is still a sought after collectable.
Specifications:
Weight: 0.87 kg (1.92 lbs)
Length: 222mm (8.75 in)
Ammo: 9x19mm (Parabellum) 8 round magazine or 32 round drum (Lange Pistole)
Action: Semi-automatic, toggle locked
Range: 60 m (65 yards)
STG 44 Assault rifle
The Sturmgewehr (Storm Rifle) 44 was a German Machine Rifle that many belive to be the father of todays assault rifes. The first of its kind ever to see mass production the StG 44 proved to be a valuable weapon in the German War machine. As with most submachine guns and machine pistols, the StG was extrealy difficult to control when used for full auto firing and thus the German commanders sent out orders stating that the full auto mode was only to be used in emergencies. C. G. Haenel Waffen and Fahrradfabrik produced the weapon for only a year in 1944 and so where only able to manufacture just under 500,000 units of the weapon, however due to its late introduction into the war it had little effect on the outcome.
Specifications:
Weight: 5.22 kg (11.5 lb)
Length: 940 mm (37 in)
Ammo: 7.92x33mm K (Kurz) 30 round magazine
Action: Gas operated, tilting bolt.
Range: 300 m (328 yards)
Rate of Fire: 500 RPM
MG-42 machinegun
The Maschinengewehr (Machine Gun) 42 is the most well-known and easily recognisable machinegun from the German forces in WWII. It was a universal machinegun that saw use in every aspect of warfiar from being carried by infantry to support troops to having four of them mounted on a frame and acting as a (rather effective) anti-air gun. It is also famous for being one of the few single barrel, infantry-portable machineguns with an ability to lay down an insane amount of suppressive fire. With the addition of its simple design, quick barrel change and belt fed system the MG 42 had a major advantage over most other machineguns on the field in WWII. The MG 42 is no longer in service but its revolutionary designs paved the way for most modern Machineguns and many of its varients are still in heavy use today. Between 1942 and 1945 Mauser led the way in producing over 750,000 MG 42 machineguns.
Specifications:
Weight: 11.57 kg (25.51 lb)
Length: 1,120 mm (44.1 in)
Ammo: 7.92x57mm (Mauser) 50 or 250 round belt
Action: Recoil operated
Range: 1000 m (1094 yards)
Rate of Fire: 1,500 RPM
Panzerschreck
The Panzerschreck or Raketenpanzerbüchse was a rocket launcher used by the German forces to take out allied tanks and was the very first actual RPG, firing a grenade with stabalizing fins attactched to the warhead. Some varients of the weapon had a small setback, being that when it fired the smoke from the launch was blown out both the front and back of the tube, thus giving away the fire teams position easily, this setback aslo earned it the nickname Ofenrohr (Stove Pipe). Never the less it proved to be one of the most successful anti-tank weapons fielded in WWII. Just under 300,000 where built between 1943 and 1945 by Mauser and its afliliates.
Specifications:
Weight: 11 kg (empty) (24.3 lb)
Length: 1640 mm (64.3 in)
Ammo: HEAT Rocket
Action: Rocket propelled
Range: 150 m (164 yards)
Double Barrelled Shotgun – Spencer model
The Spencer model 1883 double barrel shotgun was a design made famous not by its use in WWII, but by its use in the “Wild West” of America. The shotgun was originally designed in the 1850’s and since then has spread across the world, seeing use before the war as a “Coach Gun” it was used by coach drivers and messengers to hold off attackers. It was never issued to German troops and mainly saw use in the war by poorly equipped partisans. However there where reported cases of German soldiers using shotguns to execute prisoners. But since shotguns where never very popular in the German army they didn’t have a lot of ammunition. Because of this most shotgun executions where done on a bridge, where two prisoners were tied to together before one prisoner was executed and thrown over the bridge, the dead weight drowned the prisoner who didn’t get shot. Double barrel shotguns have been in production since the 1850’s and have flooded the world; today they are mostly used as hunting weapons.
Specifications:
Weight: 3.6 kg (8 lb)
Length: 1000 mm (39 in)
Ammo: 12-gauge shotgun shells 2 barrels single loaded
Action: break-lock
Range: 20 m (22 yards)
MG 34 Machinegun
Paving the way for the MG 42 was the Maschinengewehr (Machine Gun) 34 general-purpose light machine gun. Similer to the MG 42 the MG 34 was just as reliable as its predecessor, however slightly more complicated to handle. It was mainly fed from a drum magazine and it couldn’t put out the mass of fire the MG 42 could, but the weapon could still hold its own in a battle. Using the same ammunition the MG 34 could still rip through infantry and light cover with realative ease and saw use right up to the end of the war. The weapon could also be mounted and fed by a belt in order to give a heavier support role, ultimatly the MG 34 was slightly more mobile then the MG 42 dispite being heavier and served it’s purpose with deadly efficiantcy. Mauser was again the leader in producing almost One Million of these weapons between 1934 and 1945.
Specifications:
Weight: 21.6 kg (26.7 lb)
Length: 1,219 mm (48 in)
Ammo: 7.92x57mm (Mauser) 50 round drum or 100 round belts
Action: Recoil-operated
Range: 800 m (875 yards)
Rate of Fire: 800 RPM
FG 42
The Fallschirmjägergewehr (Paratrooper Rifle) 42 was intended to be the standard issue weapon to the German Fallschirmjäger (Parachute Infantry) in WWII and was considered to be one of the most advanced weapons of its time, helping to pave the way for the modern assault rifle. However it was only produced in small numbers and couldn’t meet demand meaning that most Fallschirmjäger where issued with the 98k bolt action rifle, much to the dismay of the troopers who had to drop with only a pistol and a few grenades while the rest of their equipiment was dropped seperatly. The FG 42 was built so it could be carried on the person of the German paratroopers so they could defend themselves as soon as they landed, rather then having to search for the dropped crates. The weapon was accuate enough to become popular among marksmen and could be fitted with a low power scope. Between 1943 and 1945 Heinrich Krieghoff Waffenfabrik and others manufactured just under 200,000 weapons for the Paratrooper Infantry.
Specifications:
Weight: 4.2 kg (9.3 lb)
Length: 945 mm (37.2 in)
Ammo: 7.92x57mm (Mauser) 20 round magazine
Action: Gas operated
Range: 500 m (547 yards)
Rate of Fire: 900 RPM
Stick Grenade
The Stielhandgranate is one of the most easily recognisable explosive weapons of WWII and WWI. Unique to Germany the Stielhandgranate (or Potato Masher as Allied forces called it) operaited in a very different way to most other grenades in that the weilder had to unscrew the base of the handle and pull a small ball attatched to a cord that ignighted the fuse. The eariler versions of the grenade didn’t have the screw off base and the cord was left to dangle out of the handle, ready to snag onto anything it could. The pull cord design enabled soldiers to trap fences by hanging the grenades by the cords from them, any large movement on the wire (Such as someone trying to climb over it or pull it down) would cause the grenade to become live and fall from its roost. Dispite its advantages in design the detonator was extreamly simple and an extrealy cold climate could prevent it from ignighting. The handle could be detached from the explosive head so the detonator could be removed for transport, once the grenades arrived at their destination they would be reassembled and had warnings written on them to remind the soldiers to reinsert the detonators before use. As with all other grenades, untold millions where built between 1915 and 1945.
Specifications:
Weight: 45 g (1 lb)
Filling: HE (High Explosive) powder
Detonation: Pull cord with a 5 second fuse
Walther P38
The Walther P38 was intended to be the successor of the Luger P08 pistol; it incorporated the sliding barrel design of the Luger but was built with a double-action trigger and external hammer. The design enabled the pistol to have a round loaded directly into the chamber and let the user (carefully) lower hammer so the weapon could be carried around fully loaded and ready to fire without needing to cock the weapon, it also meant the weapon had an extra bullet to fire before using the rounds in the clip. Just over One Million where built by Walther and Mauser from 1938 to 1945 and the pistol is still in use today.
Specifications:
Weight: 0.8 kg (1.12 lb)
Length: 216 mm (8.5 in)
Ammo: 9x19mm (Parabellum) 8 round magazine ( +1 if extra round loaded directly into the chamber)
Action: Recoil operated
Range: 50 m (164 ft)
STG 45 Assault rifle
The Sturmgewehr (Storm Rifle) 45M Assault Rifle would have been the bane of the Allied Infanrty forces. The very first True Assault Rifle the STG 45M was the pinnical of German weapons technolagy. Incorporating the firing mechenisum of the MG 42 with the stability and accuacy of a 98k, this weapon would have given a well trained German soldier the ability to hold his own against a larger number of enemies and a whole squad would have been able to repel almost any number of foes. Unfortuatly for the Germans only 30 prototypes where built by Mauser before the end of the war, never actualy seeing combat the rifle was none the less a truly remarkable weapon and could be produced for almost half the price of the STG 44. After the war the Mauser engineers continued their work in France, developing the weapon futher and perfecting the design, the most famous varient of the STG 45 is the MP5, dispite being smaller in size and caliber the MP5 uses almost the exact same design features of the STG 45.
Specifications:
Weight: 5.22 kg (11.5 lb)
Length: 940 mm (37 in)
Ammo: 7.92x33mm K (Kurz) 30 round magazine
Action: Roller-delayed Blowback
Range: 300 m (328 yards)
Rate of Fire: 450 RPM
Mauser C96
The Construktion 96 was a German pistol that saw use in both WWI and WWII that could have a wooden stock attatched to the base of the handle, effectivly turning the weapon into a Carbine. Not only did the stock give the weapon stability, but it also doubled as a holster, with a small latches that could be attatched to a belt built onto one side. Nicknamed the “Box Cannon” due to its large box like magazine situated just before the trigger, the weapon lived up to its name as it was one of the only pistols that could fire rifle rounds. The C96 was practicaly the Magnum of its time and is still used by many milita forces around the world. The C96’s design has been copied by a large number of countries, most notably China and Spain. From 1896 to 1937 Mauser produced over One Million units of the pistol for almost the same cost of a Luger.
Specifications:
Weight: 1.1 kg (2 lb)
Length: 312 mm (12.3 in)
Ammo: 7.92x57mm (Mauser) 10 round magazine (40 round magazines where also made but where rare)
Action: Short recoil
Range: 185 m (200 yards)
Walther PPK
The Walther PPK (Polizeipistole Kriminalmodell) (Police Pistol Detective Model), is probably the most famous German weapon ever built simply because it was the weapon that Adolf Hitler supposably killed himself with in Berlin. Aside from this clam to fame it is also the weapon most used by James Bond. Being a smaller pistol it was easy to conceal and was one of the worlds more successful double-action semi-automatic pistols. The decision to move away from sliding barrel design of the P08, P38 and C96 meant the weapon had less power then the other German pistols, but still proved to be a popular weapon due to its small size and comfortable grip. It began production in 1929 and is still being produced today by non-German companies who either stole or brought the designs off Walther after the war.
Specifications:
Weight: 0.6 kg (0.9 lb)
Length: 155 mm (6.1 in)
Ammo: 9x19mm (Parabellum) 6 round magazine
Action: Straight Blowback
Range: 50 m (54.7 yards)
Suomi Flamethrower
The Suomi Submachinegun was a standard submachinegun of the time, the barrel was heavier then most but was still a very accurate weapon. One version was designed to be attached to the gun ports of tanks and was very popular amongst tank crews. It was used mainly by strike units who raided bunkers and engaged in close combat and with the under barrel flamethrower it wreaked havoc. The weapon itself is rather heavy to begin with, but with the addition of the flamethrower and fuel tank it became a very heavy weapon and could really only be used effectively by strong soldiers.
Specifications:
Weight: 8.07kg (20.16lb)
Length: 34.25 in (87 cm)
Ammo: 9x19 (Parabellum) 50 round box magazine
Action: Straight Blowback
Range: 50 m (54.7 yards)
Flamethrower Range: 4.5 m (5 yards)
Rate of Fire: 700 RPM
Italian
Carcano M91/M38
The Modello 1891 was the standard issue Italian bolt-action rifle used in WWI and WWII. Although referred to as the Carcano M91 (for its creator Salvatore Carcano), by non Italian Countries, the Italians themselves never officially named the weapon. Like most bolt-action rifles, the Carcano proved to an accurate and reliable weapon. Easy to use and maintain, the M38 was also used sporadically by some German forces in Africa. The ammunition used in the M91 weapons where a different story though, due to mixing two types of powder together the Italians found that the effectiveness of the bullets where varied and unpredictable, some rounds travelled the distance they where meant to go, while most fell short of their targets or failed to penetrate the skin. A few reported that the recoil of a shot was so powerful that it left massive bruises on the shooters shoulder. After the Modello 1938 was built the ammunition was changed (just in time for WWII) to a more reliable and standard type. Produced from 1892 to 1945 well over Three Million of the Corcano’s where built, with the shorter M38 being the more popular and fitted with a scope for marksmen.
Specifications:
Weight: 3.8 kg (8.9 lb) M91 / 2.9 kg (6.3 lb) M38
Length: 1295 mm (49.9 in) M91 / 990mm (38.9 in)
Ammo: 6.5x52mm Carcano M91 / 7.35x51mm Carcano M38 (Spitzer)
Action: Bolt-action
Range: 600 m (656 yards)
Beretta Model 38
The Moschetto Automatico Beretta Modello 1938A or simply the Beretta 38 was a robust and powerful submachine gun used mainly by the Italian forces in WWII. It prooved itself to a submachine gun of great value to whoever was using it, having more accuacy at longer ranges then most other SMG’s it was ideal for both short and medium ranged fire fights. Being light and versitile it was an ideal choice for assault troops and led the charge on most Italian assault missions. Its main drawback though was its time consuming and expencive production costs, meaning that only 500,000 where produced by Beretta from its designing in 1935 through to 1945.
Specifications:
Weight: 3.3 kg (7.2 lb)
Length: 800 mm (31.4 in)
Ammo: 9x19mm (Cartuccia Modello 38) 30 round magazine
Action: Blowback
Range: 250 m (275 yards)
Rate of Fire: 600RPM
Breda Model 30
The Fucile Mitragliatore Breda modello 30 or simply Breda 30 was the italian standard light machinegun in WWII. Overall this weapon was not a good machinegun, It was heavy and cumbersom, making it difficult to transport by infanrty and used a weak round in fragile clips. It was extreamly prone to jamming due to its lubericating action, easily picking up dirt, dust and sand and also meant that the barrel overheated quickly. This extream excess of heat from the barrel actualy caused the bullets to “cook off” in the chamber and fire prematurly, making this weapon extreamly dangerous to handle. Never the less, between 1930 and 1945 Breda manufactured over 300,000 machineguns.
Specifications:
Weight: 10.6 kg (23.3 lb)
Length: 1230 mm (48.4 in)
Ammo: 6.5x52mm (Mannlicher-Carcano) 20 round stripper clip
Action: Closed bolt, blow back
Range: 800 m (872 yards)
Rate of Fire: 500RPM
Beretta M1934
Beretta has had a hand in making firearms since 1526 when they where commissioned to make barrels for the old muskets. Since then Beretta has surged forward in weapons with the M1934 being one their proudest products in WWII. The M1934 was Beretta’s answer to the Italian military when they asked for a pistol to be built like that of the Walther PP. Beretta improved on the design and the Italian military took it into service in 1937. The Beretta 1934 has a made a name for itself when it was used in the assassination of Mahatma Gandhi, and it was also the weapon of choice for the famous Australian criminal Mark “Chopper” Read. Well over One Million where built between 1934 and 1991 and they are still in wide use today.
Specifications:
Weight: 0.75 kg (1.6)
Length: 150 mm (5.91 in)
Ammo: 9×17mm Browning Short (.380 ACP) 7 round magazine
Action: Blowback
Range: 50 m (164 ft)
Italian Grenade
The Bomba a Mano Moddello 35 or “Red Devil” hand grenades where used by Italian forces in WWII, they earned their nickname from the British forces who mostly fought the Italians in the African deserts. They where notorious for delayed explosions. Most British forces would retreat from the grenade when it was thrown, but after a few minutes without detonation they would believe it to be a dud, and so would return to their old position, only to have the grenade explode in their hands. This was not the intended mechanism for the grenade, but it served a purpose in luring in enemy troops who believed they where safe. The delayed detonation didn’t happen often, but it occurred more often then the throwers would have liked. As with all grenades, untold millions where built by many companies.
Specifications:
Weight: 45 g (1 lb)
Filling: HE (High Explosive) TNT
Detonation: 6 second fuse
TZ-45
The TZ-45 was constructed by the Giandoso brothers Tonon and Zorzoli in their own small factory in 1944 and was issued to the R.S.I for use in fighting partisans. The weapon incorporated a few interesting and revolutionary features such as a guide rod that telescopes as the bolt comes back after firing and a double safety system that all other submachineguns lacked. Like most SMG's the TZ-45 had a 'safe' position on the fire selector, but it also had a second 'safe grip' located behind the magazine housing. Holding the weapon properly would mean the grip was compressed and the weapon could be fired. This prevented the weapon from miss-firing if it was bumped or jarred witch was a very common problem with most SMG's of the time. Around 6000 TZ-45's were produced by the brothers between 1944 and 1945.
Specifications:
Weight: 3.2 kg (7 lb)
Length: 845 mm (33.27 in)
Ammo: 9x19 mm Parabellum, 9mm Fiocchi (40 round Box Magazine)
Action: API Blowback, selective fire
Range: 150 m (490 ft)
Rate of Fire: 800 rpm
Breda 37
The Breda Modello 37 Heavy Machinegun contained many of the same problems as the Breda 30 but overall was a more reliable machinegun. Intended for a Company and Battalion support role the Breda 37 however still uses 20 round stripper clips and is much less mobile then the Breda 30 plus, unlike every other Machinegun in the war, continual rapid fire was only possible with a second gunner feeding strips into the breach. Around 100,000 of these heavy guns were built by Breda between 1937 and 1943.
Specifications:
Weight: 17.5 kg (38.5 lbs)
Length: 1270 mm (50 in)
Ammo: 6.5x52mm (Mannlicher-Carcano) 20 round stripper clip
Action: Gas-operated, air-cooled
Range: 1000 m (3,280 ft)
Rate of Fire: 460 RPM
Book of Armaments
Chapter one: Allied Infantry Weapons
American
M1 Garand:
The M1 has seen service in the US Army since 1936 and is still in use today for ceremonial and training purposes. It was the first semi-automatic rifle to be issued to standard infantry but was first issued only to elite and special forces, it has seen combat not only in WWII but also in the Korean war, the Arab – Israeli War and the Vietnam War. It was designed in 1932 and manufactured by a range of companies, most famous being Springfield Armoury and Winchester, between 1936 and 1957 approximately 6 Million where manufactured.
Specifications
Weight: 5.3 kg (11.6 lb)
Length: 1,104.9 mm (43.5 in)
Ammo: .30 Calibre Springfield (7.62x63mm) 8 round clips.
Action: Gas-operated, rotating bolt.
Range: 402 m (440 yards)
M1918 Browning automatic rifle:
The M1918A2 BAR saw service in multiple armies but was originally served the US army. It was designed in 1918 and remained in service until the 1960s, originally designed as a ‘walking fire’ weapon it was used more as a light machinegun. However its small clip limited its use as an effective support weapon. It saw use in many wars ranging from WWI and WWII too the Korean War and even saw use in the Vietnam War. It was built by a massive range of manufacturers including Colt, Winchester and FN Herstal, despite this however between 1917 and the 1950s only just over 100 000 of the M1918 were ever produced.
Specifications
Weight: 7.25kg (15.98 lb)
Length: 1,194 mm (47 in)
Ammo: .30 Calibre Springfield (7.62x63mm) 20 round box magazine.
Action: Gas-operated, tilting break lock.
Range: 1371.5 m (1500 yards)
Rate of Fire: 500 RPM
M1 Carbine:
The M1 Carbine was a semi-automatic rifle that saw use mostly with the US Army. Originally designed in 1938 the rifle went though a vigorous testing phase before the final M1 design was set into mass production in 1941. It saw service from 1942 and lasted into the 1960s, seeing combat in WWII, Korea and the Vietnam War. It was manufactured by a collection of Military Contractors and over 6.25 million Carbines where produced between 1941 and 1945.
Specifications
Weight: 2.4 kg (5.2 lb)
Length: 900 mm (35.6 in)
Ammo: .30 Calibre Carbine (7.62x33mm) 15 round box magazine
Action: Gas-Operated, rotating bolt.
Range: 274 m (300 yards)
Thompson Sub-machinegun:
The Thompson sub machinegun or ‘Tommy Gun’ was an American Sub machinegun designed in 1919. Despite being around for a few decades the weapon did not see use in the US army until 1938 though to 1971. Primarily designed as a civilian weapon it saw limited use in WWI, but earned the nickname ‘Trench Sweeper’ for obvious reasons. However the Marines first adopted it as a point-defence weapon for the Banana Wars before being intergraded into the army in time for WWII. The Tommy gun fought in countless wars and proved itself time and time again as a reliable close quarters weapon. It was originally manufactured by the Auto-Ordinance Company and from 1921 produced over 1.7 million of the weapons.
Specifications:
Weight: 4.9kg (10.8lb)
Length: 851 mm (33.5 in)
Ammo: .45 ACP (11.43x23 mm) 20 round stick magazine
Action: Blowback
Range: 50 m (54.7 yards)
Rate of Fire: 600 RPM
1911 Colt Pistol:
The M1911 Colt pistol was (Obviously) a pistol used by the American forces since 1911. It was the standard issue pistol for officers and its variants are still widely used today in police forces and militia. Its design changed very little though out the decades and it is a popular belief that the 1911 Colt’s firing system was a major stepping stone towards the firing systems used in pistols today. It saw service in WWI and WWII and many wars after and it is still used in the Afghanistan – Iraqi War. It was manufactured mainly by Springfield Armoury and well over 2 million have been produced.
Specifications:
Weight: 1.1 kg (2.44 lb)
Length: 210 mm (8.25 in)
Ammo: .45 ACP (11.43x23 mm) 7 round internal clip
Action: Short Recoil Operation
Range: 50 m (54.7 yards)
Springfield Scoped Rifle:
The M1903 Springfield rifle has been the favoured weapon of marksmen since its adoption into the army in 1905 and remained in service until 1957. Originally a standard issue rifle for troops in WWI and WWII due to a lack of M1 Garands at the start of the war. Even though the M1 Garand outclassed the older Springfield, the bolt-action rifles accuracy would not be waisted and many where converted into effective sniper rifles and between 1903 and 1957 Springfield Armoury produced over 2 million of these weapons.
Specifications:
Weight: 3.9 kg (8.69 lb)
Length: 1,115mm (43.9 in)
Ammo: .30 Calibre Springfield (7.62x63mm) 5 round clip magazine
Action: Bolt-Action
Range: 2,300m (2,500 yards) / 4.47 km (2.77 miles) at 45 degree angle
M3A1 Grease Gun
The M3A1 (Originally M3) was a sub machinegun used by the US army from 1942 to 1992. Throughout its service it began to replace the Thompson SMG due to its cost effective design and ease of mass production. It saw use in WWII and Vietnam and is still used by some countries today, mainly by their special forces. Its main manufacture, General Motors, was able to produce around 700 000 weapons between its service dates for no more then $20 US per unit.
Specifications:
Weight: 3.47 kg (7.65 lb)
Length: 756.9 mm (29.8 in) Stock extended
Ammo: .45 ACP (9x19mm Parabellum) 30 round box magazine
Action: Blowback, open bolt
Range: 50 m (54.7 yards)
Rate of Fire: 450 RPM
.30 Calibre Browning Machinegun
The M1919 Browning machinegun was used in a wide variety of roles in the US military, designed in 1919 it was an infantry carried support gun, a mounted anti-infantry weapon mostly on jeeps, an anti-air gun and was also mounted on smaller aircraft. It was a truly versatile weapon that made an impact in the many wars it was used and is still common today in most armies as a mounted support weapon. Between 1919 and 1945 well over 500 000 where produced, its main manufacture was General Motors.
Specifications:
Weight: 14kg (31 lb)
Length: 964 mm (37.94 in)
Ammo: .30 Calibre Springfield (7.62x63mm) 250 round belt
Action: Recoil Operated
Range: 1,370 m (1,500 yards)
Rate of Fire: 400 RPM
Frag Grenade:
The Mk 2 Defensive hand grenade “Pineapple” was a timed fuse grenade used by American infantry from 1920 though to the 1960s. It was normally filled with TNT or a Blank fire powder that detonated a short time after the pin was pulled and the spoon removed. The grooves cut into the side of the grenade that gave it its pineapple appearance where believed to help with the fragmentation of the casing, however the grooves had the fortunate side affect of enabling the thrower to grip the grenade better. It was produced by almost every arms company in the US and untold millions where manufactured.
Specifications:
Weight: 45 g (1 lb)
Filling: TNT/Blank fire powder
Detonation: Timed fuse approximately 5 seconds
Browning High Power
The same man, John Browning, who designed the Colt 1911 in the US, designed the Browning high power semi-automatic pistol, but the Browning was improved and built mainly in Belgium by Farbrique Nationale in 1935. The Browning is still used toady and saw action in almost every war since its development. Well over 1 million where built between 1914 and 1935.
Specifications:
Weight: 1 kg (2.19 lb)
Length: 197 mm (7.8 in)
Ammo: 9mm (9x19mm Parabellum) 13 round internal clip
Action: Short recoil operated
Range: 50 m (54.7 yards)
M1941 Johnson LMG
The M1941 Johnson LMG was a revolutionary weapon, originally designed in 1937 with the specific purpose to outclass the M1 Garand its Semi-automatic version proved to be the less popular of the two. The in-line stock of the M41 inspired the construction of many more advanced weapons including the M16, it had a higher accuracy rating then most automatic weapons of its class despite the overly long clip weighing down the left side of the gun. Between 1940 and 1945 only 9500 where manufactured, the designer of the weapon, Mr Melvin Johnson Jr, produced it himself.
Specifications:
Weight: 5.9 kg (13 lb)
Length: 1,067 mm (42 in)
Ammo: .30 Calibre Springfield (7.62x63mm) 20 clip magazine
Action: short recoil
Range: 1400 m (1500 yards)
Rate of Fire: 200 / 600 RPM
Reising M50
The Reising M50 was an American designed sub-machinegun built between 1941 and 1953 by Harrington & Richardson. Only 100 000 of the guns were ever produced and it mainly saw action in the Navy, Marine Corps and Coast Guard.
Specifications:
Weight: 3.1 kg (6.83 lb)
Length: 959 mm (37.8 in)
Ammo: .45 ACP (9x19mm Parabellum) 20 round box magazine
Action: Delayed blowback, closed bolt
Range: 50 m (54.7 yards)
Rate of Fire: 550 RPM
1911 Colt Machine Pistol:
The M1911 Colt machine pistol was never mass produced, in fact its prototype was only released just before the end of the war. Paving the way for future machine pistols, the Colt company had to upgrade the materials used in construction to handle the rapid fire. This however increased the cost and with most fully automatic weapons of the time being all but uncontrollable the development and production of Colt's Machine Pistol was constantly being put on hold, the simple reason being there was no urgent need for a rapid firing pistol.
Specifications:
Weight: 1.1 kg (2.44 lb)
Length: 210 mm (8.25 in)
Ammo: .45 ACP (11.43x23 mm) 20 round extended clip
Action: Short Recoil Operation
Range: 50 m (54.7 yards)
Rate of Fire: 450 RPM
Thompson Light Rifle
The Thompson Light Rifle was the Auto-Ordnance's attempt to build an assault rifle for the US army. Essentially it was a Thompson Sub-Machinegun with an extended barrel shroud but was built from pressed steel components to reduce the cost and improve production. It had selective fire and proved to be more reliable and accurate then the M1 Carbine, despite this the weapon didn't see mass production. Only 200 were produced before the end of the war.
Specifications:
Weight: 4.9kg (10.8lb)
Length: 851 mm (33.5 in)
Ammo: .45 ACP (11.43x23 mm) 30 round magazine
Action: Blowback
Range: 100 m (110.7 yards)
Rate of Fire: 800 RPM
Commonwealth
Lee Enfield MK4
The British Empire adopted this rifle as its standard issue weapon in 1895 and it remained the standard issue weapon up until 1957 when the L1A1 SLR replaced it. It was deadly accurate weapon that served the British Empire and Commonwealth Armies well, in fact the Lee Enfield remains the standard issue weapon in some Commonwealth countries, making it the worlds longest serving bolt action rifle. It was designed and built in the Royal Small Arms Factory witch produced well over 17 million of these tough and reliable weapons. In many cases the Lee Enfield was converted into a sniper rifle by attaching a scope. This weapon has been in almost every major and conflict the world has seen since 1895.
Specifications:
Weight: 4 kg (8.8 lb)
Length: 1,130 mm (44.5 in)
Ammo: .303 British, (7.7x56mmR) 10 round magazine
Action: Bolt Action
Range: 503 m (550 yards)
P.I.A.T.
The Projector, Infantry, Anti-Tank was a weaponed developed as an answer to the British question “How are we meant to kill that?” when infantry found themselves under heavy Panzer attack. Thus Imperial Chemical Industries answered with 115 000 P.I.A.T’s in 1942 and they remained in the service of the British and Commonwealth armies until the 1950s. The P.I.A.T was unique in that it used the spigot mortar system to launch its projectiles, rather then directly igniting a small explosive rocket to sent its missile towards its target, the P.I.A.T used a large spring to launch its deadly payload out.
Specifications:
Weight: 15 kg (32 lb)
Length: 990.6 mm (39 in)
Ammo: HEAT projectiles
Detonation: Impact
Range: 90 m (100 yards)
Trench-Gun
The Winchester model 1897 was a pump action shot-gun that saw service in a variety of armed forces, originally American in design and manufacture, it grew in popularity with the British and Commonwealth troops for its spread shot and was used mainly in trench warfare, thus it was most commonly known simply as a Trench-gun. Between 1897 and 1957 the Winchester Repeating Arms Company produced well over 1 million shotguns.
Specifications:
Weight: 3.6 kg (8 lb)
Length: 1000 mm (39 in)
Ammo: 12-gauge shotgun shells 5 round internal tube magazine
Action: pump action
Range: 20 m (22 yards)
Bren LMG
The Bren Gun (As it was best known) was the Commonwealths most famous and recognizable light machine gun ever built. Adopted by Britain in the 1930s this weapon saw continued service in multiple conflicts right up until the 1990s. A reliable and tough weapon it was able to send a small hail of bullets towards the enemies of the Commonwealth, the earlier models however had to have interchangeable barrels for when sustained fire overheated the weapon. The Royal Small Arms Factory manufactured a rough 250 000 machineguns between 1935 and 1971.
Specifications:
Weight: 10.35 kg (22.83 lb)
Length: 1,156 mm (42.9 in)
Ammo: .303 British, (7.7x56mm) 20 round Box magaizine
Action: Gas operated, tilting bolt
Range: 550 m (600 yards)
Rate of Fire: 500 RPM
Vickers heavy machinegun
The Vickers heavy machinegun was a very solid and reliable weapon, able to lay down suppressing fire over a large area, one of its main drawback however was the need of an eight man crew. One to fire, one to reload and the other six where needed to carry the weapon and all its accessories, such as spare parts and extra ammunition. Despite this the Vickers was probably the most reliable machinegun available, rarely jamming or breaking down. The Vickers remained in service from 1912 though to 1968 and was put to use in many wars. Manufactured by Vickers the company produced well over 200 000 throughout its service decades.
Specifications:
Weight: 15 kg (33.07 lb)
Length: 1,100 mm (43.31 in.)
Ammo: 303 British, (7.7x56mm) 250 round canvas belt
Action: recoil with gas boost, water cooled
Range: 2000 m (2,187 yd)
Rate of Fire: 450 RPM
Webley revolver
The Webley Break Top revolver was the standard issue sidearm for British and Commonwealth officers during its service period of 1887 though to 1963. This powerful hand cannon was both feared and respected throughout its military years and has since been adopted by police forces in several countries. Manufactured by Webley & Scott there was approximately 125 000 revolvers produced between 1887 and 1923.
Specifications:
Weight: 1.1 kg (2.4 lb)
Length: 286 mm (11.25 in)
Ammo: .445 Webley Mk II Six shooter revolver
Action: Double Action revolver
Range: 45 m (50 yards)
Sten SMG
The Sten Gun was a British built sub machinegun used by a wide range of Commonwealth troops, they where cheap and easy to mass produce witch saw the Royal Small Arms Factory and others manufacturing 4.6 million of the SMG’s between 1941 and the 1960s. It was one of the most widespread sub machineguns, seeing action in countless conflicts and spreading to resistance groups that still use them today. Due to its simple nature the Sten was continually modified by whatever military got their hands on it, with over 20 varieties of the weapon existing.
Specifications:
Weight: 3.2 kg (7.1 lb)
Length: 760 mm (29.9 in)
Ammo: 9mm (9x19mm Parabellum) 32 round stick magazine
Action: blowback operated, open bolt
Range: 60 m (65 yards)
Rate of Fire: 500 RPM
De Lisle Carbine
The De Lisle Carbine “Commando Carbine” was a British Special Forces weapon; it was limited in its use as it was only available to elite infiltration troops due to the Carbines noise suppressor. The suppressor was so effective that working the bolt to load in a fresh round was actually louder then the shot. It only saw action in WWII and Korea, and it was easily concealed thanks to a folding stock. Only 129 of these deathly silent weapons where produced by the Sterling Armaments Company in 1942 to 1945.
Specifications:
Weight: 3.74 kg (8 lb)
Length: 894 mm (40.5 in)
Ammo: .45 ACP (9x19mm) 7 round magazine
Action: Bolt action
Range: 185 m (200 yards)
Lanchester SMG
The Lanchester SMG was built around a design stolen from the Germans, but it was rarely used against them, the Navy and Air Force mainly used the Lanchester. The Army saw very little of the British version of the weapon despite nearly 100 000 of them being manufactured by the Sterling Armaments Company between 1941 and 1945.
Specifications:
Weight: 4.34 kg (9.57 lb)
Length: 851 mm (33.5 in)
Ammo: .45 ACP (9x19mm Parabellum) 32 round stick magazine
Action: Blowback, open bolt
Range: 150 m (164 yards)
Rate of Fire: 600 RPM
Welrod
The Welrod was a silenced pistol used extensively by ‘irregular’ forces and resistance soldiers. Joining the De Lisle as a suppressed weapon it was not uncommon for infiltrators to be equipped with the Welrod as a sidearm. Originally designed to be close combat secret service weapon, the manufactures have remained silent about who produced it, only one company has come forward and admitted to building a few of these weapons. Researchers estimate the number of units produced to be around 2,800.
Specifications:
Weight: 1.5 kg (3.3 lb)
Length: 32 mm (12 in)
Ammo: 9mm (9x19mm subsonic) 6 round magazines
Action: Bolt action
Range: 23 m (25 yards)
Thompson Sub-machinegun
The Thompson sub machinegun or ‘Tommy Gun’ was an American Sub machinegun designed in 1919. Despite being around for a few decades the weapon did not see use in the US army until 1938 though to 1971. The British and Commonwealth forces adopted the weapon for use with their commando unites during the war. It was originally manufactured by the Auto-Ordinance Company and from 1921 produced over 1.7 million of the weapons.
Specifications:
Weight: 4.9kg (10.8lb)
Length: 851 mm (33.5 in)
Ammo: .45 ACP (11.43x23 mm) 20 round stick magazine
Action: Blowback
Range: 50 m (54.7 yards)
Rate of Fire: 600 RPM
Frag Grenade
The Mk 2 Defensive hand grenade “Pineapple” was a timed fuse grenade used by Commonwealth infantry from 1920 though to the 1960s. It was normally filled with TNT or a Blank fire powder that detonated a short time after the pin was pulled and the spoon removed. The grooves cut into the side of the grenade that gave it its pineapple appearance where believed to help with the fragmentation of the casing, however the grooves had the fortunate side affect of enabling the thrower to grip the grenade better. It was produced by almost every arms company in the US and untold millions where manufactured.
Specifications:
Weight: 45 g (1 lb)
Filling: TNT/Blank fire powder
Detonation: Timed fuse approximately 5 seconds
Browning Hi Power
The same man, John Browning, who designed the Colt 1911 in the US, designed the Browning high power semi-automatic pistol, but the Browning was improved and built mainly in Belgium by Farbrique Nationale in 1935. However when it became apparent that the FN factory was about to be captured the designs where sent to the British Military and they continued production of the pistol. The Browning is still used toady and saw action in almost every war since its development. Well over 1 million where built between 1914 and 1935.
Specifications:
Weight: 1 kg (2.19 lb)
Length: 197 mm (7.8 in)
Ammo: 9mm (9x19mm Parabellum) 13 round internal clip
Action: Short recoil operated
Range: 50 m (54.7 yards)
Charlton Automatic Rifle
The low numbers of machineguns at the start of the war caused a New Zealander Philip Charlton to work on converting a Lee Enfield into a light rapid firing weapon that would be able to both give suppressive fire and be used as an assault rifle. Over 1500 weapons were produced in New Zealand but in an unfortunate accident most of them were lost in a fire at a storage facility shortly after the war.
Specifications:
Weight: 7.35 kg (16.83 lb)
Length: 1,150 mm (44.5 in)
Ammo: .303 British, (7.7x56mm) 30 round Box magaizine
Action: Gas operated, Semi-automatic
Range: 550 m (600 yards)
Rate of Fire: 500 RPM
Russian
Mosin-Nagant
The Three-Line Rifle or Mosin-Nagant was the standard issue weapon for the conscripts and soldiers of the Russian army. Designed in 1891 by Emile Nagant and later refined (and greatly improved) by Sergei Ivanovich Mosin, it was given the official name of the Three-Line Rifle. Three-Line being the term used for the 7.62x54mm rounds it fired. Initialy Mosin was the only one given credit for the weapon, but after a massive legal battle over the rights to the pay off for the weapon Nagant was also recognised as the rifles disginer. The weapon was never officialy called the Mosin-Nagant by the Russians, its new name only appeared in western litriture due to the massive legal battle fought between Mosin and Nagant and has since been used to refer to the weapon. The Three-Line rifle was put into production in 1892 and over 37 million of the weapons where produced before 1965 by the Tula Arsenal, Izhevsk Arsenal and the Sestroryetsk Arsenal weapons companies. A sniper version was disigned but the magazine could only be loaded one round at a time though the breach. The rifle has seen use in over 20 major conflicts and is still used today by some milita.
Specifications:
Weight: 4 kg (8.8lbs)
Length: 1,287 mm (50.7 in)
Ammo: 7.62x54mmR (Rimmed) 5 round stripper clip.
Action: Bolt-action
Range: 500 m (550 yards) 750+ m (With scope)
AVS-36
The Avtomaticheskaya Vintovka Simonova was disigned in 1936 by Sergei Simonov who had been working on disigning the weapon since 1930. Unfortunaly, the weapon encountered many problems in the field and was considered uncontrolable when being used as a full automatic. Only 65 800 where built before it was deemed unfit for service and removed from production in 1938.
Specifications:
Weight: 4.3 kg (9.5lb)
Length: 1,230mm (48 in)
Ammo: 7.62x54mmR (Rimmed) 15 round magazine
Action: Gas operated, tilting-bolt
Range: 150 m (164 yards)
Rate of Fire: 800 RPM
SVT-40
The Samozaryadnaya Vintovka Tokareva was designed in 1940 by Fedor Tokarev. It was an improved design of the SVT-38, the rifle that had replaced the AVS-36 with the hopes that it would become the new standard issue weapon for the Russian army. However by 1940 a few problems with the weapon kept it from becoming standard issue, such as its length and weight, plus the small problem that was created when the magazine fell out of the weapon if bumped too hard. Thus the SVT-38 was improved and the SVT-40 was born in 1940 and production of the Mosin-Nagant was ceased. It was destend to become the standard issue weapon for the Russians but a large shipment (numbering the hundreds of thousands) was lost and the army had no choice but to put the Mosin-Nagant back into production. Tula Arsenal, Izhevsk Arsenal and the Sestroryetsk Arsenal collectivaly manufactured 1.6 million SVT-40’s and the rifles continued service up until 1955.
Specifications:
Weight: 3.85 kg (8.5 lb)
Length: 1226 mm (48 in)
Ammo: 7.62x54mmR (Rimmed) 10 round magazine
Action: Semi-automatic
Range: 500 m (550 yards)
PPS-42
The Pistolet-pulemjot Sudaeva was a very light and versitial sub-machinegun desigened specifically to ease the pressure off the manufaction of the PPSh-41. The PPS-42 was in all rights very similer to the PPSh-41 save for its simpiler disigen. The PPS-42 proved to be a very cost effective submachine gun, cutting down production costs and time by over 50% compared to the PPSh-41 and the Arsenal’s signed to manufacture it where able to put out 350 000 a month between 1942 and 1968. Due to its simpiler nature and ease of cleaning it became the prefered SMG of the Russian infantry dispite its lower rate of fire from the PPSh-41.
Specifications:
Weight: 2.95 kg (6.5 lb)
Length: 907 mm (35.7 in)
Ammo: 7.62x25mm (Tokarev) 35 round magazine
Action: Blow back, open bolt, automatic.
Range: 150 m (164 yards)
Rate of Fire: 600 RPM
PPSh-41
The Pistolet-Pulemyot Shpagina was a more cost efective answer to the PPD-40 and was one of the most mass-produced and well-known submachine guns in WWII. The weapon was so in demand that failure to meet production quotas was met with harsh punishments, dispite this a coalition of factories in Moscow only produced 6 million of the weapons. Like any weapon it had its fallbacks, such as the accedental discharge of a few rounds if dropped, but over all it was a reliable and tough weapon.
Specifications:
Weight: 3.63 kg (8 lb)
Length: 843 mm (33.2 in)
Ammo: 7.62x25mm (Tokarev) 71 round drum magazine
Action: Blow back, open bolt, automatic
Range: 185 m (200 yards)
Rate of Fire: 900 RPM
DP light machinegun
The Pulemyot Degtyaryova Pekhotny light machinegun or “Record player” as it was nicknamed by the allies was the easiest and cheapest machinegun ever to be manufactured. Originaly designed in 1928 the first modles of this gun only had 80 parts and could be dissasembeled, cleaned and reassembeled as easily as firing the weapon. Due to its rugged disigen the DP could even be buired under sand and mud and still be able to fire without worry, the only real problem with the weapon was mounting it, as its bipod would easily break under the abuse the gun was put through, many machineguners didn’t even bother with the bipod, and opted to using rocks or some other means of supporting the gun. The other drawback was the “pan” magasine that fed the top of the weapon, it took more time then the soldier manning it would have liked to change the pans over, and reloading the empty pans was a pain. From 1927 up to the 1950’s 800 000 DP machineguns where manufactured and they saw use in multiple conflicts around the world.
Specifications:
Weight: 9.12 kg (20.11 lb)
Length: 1,270 mm (50 in
Ammo: 7.62x54mmR (Rimmed) 47 round Pan magazine
Action: Gas operated, automatic
Range: 800 m
Rate of Fire: 600RPM
PTRD-41
The ProtivoTankovoye Ruzhyo Degtyaryova was designed as an anti-tank rifle in 1941. Dispite its high calibure rounds the weapon mostly failed as an anti-tank weapon at any range greater then 100 meters, for it to have had any real hope of peircing the armour of a German tank the crew had to practicaly be next to the target and even then the round could just shatter against the armour. Failing as an anti-tank weapon the rifle did see success in taking out lighter armoured vehicles such as halftracks and small armoured cars. However, the crew could normally only get one shot at their target before having to relocate or retreat entirely as the massive muzzle flash from the weapon would instantly give away their position to any survivors. The Degtyaryova Plant produced aproximatly 100 000 of the weapons between 1941 and 1945.
Specifications:
Weight: 17.3 kg (38.1 lbs)
Length: 2,020 mm (79.5 in.)
Ammo: 14.5x114mm rounds
Action: Single shot, bolt action
Range: 3000 – 8000 m (3282 – 8752 yards)
PTRS-41
The PTRS-41 or “Simonov” was meant to be an improved version of the PTRD, however the only real change was a magazine built under the bolt. Other then the increased ammo capacity and semi-automatic action the weapon didn’t change and the new magazine meant a higher chance residue build up and jamming.
Specifications:
Weight: 20.3 kg (46lbs)
Length: 2100 mm (83 in)
Ammo: 14.5x114mm 5 round magazine
Action: Gas operated, semi-automatic
Range: 3000 – 8000 m (3282 – 8752 yards)
TT-33
The TT-30 was designed to replace the Nagant M1895 revolver that had been adopted as the standard side arm of the Russian army. All though the TT-30 was of sound make and had passed all field tests with flying colours, before production entered full swing its design was modified in order to simplify the manufacture of the pistol. The TT-33 proved to be a reliable and tough weapon, similar to the FN03 automatic pistol the TT-33 had more improvements built into it, such as feed lips on the receiver that prevented damage and jamming from a bad reload, all in all making the pistol a popular sidearm. 1.7 million where produced by Talu Arsenal and other weapon companies and the pistol is still in service today.
Specifications:
Weight: 854 g (30.12 oz)
Length: 194 mm (7.6 in)
Ammo: 7.62x25mm (Tokarev) 8 round magazine
Action: Locked breach, semi-automatic
Range: 60 m (65 yards)
Grenade (Russian)
The F-1 Fugasnaya (High Explosive) frag grenade was designed in 1942, it has a very similar design and operating system to that of the American Mk2 hand grenade.
Specifications:
Weight: 45 g (1 lb)
Filling: TNT
Detonation: Timed fuse approximately 4 seconds
SKS
The Samozaryadnyj Karabin sistemy Simonova rifle is a scaled down version of the PTRS-41 Anti-Tank rifle that fires a 7.62x39mm round. Unfortunately the weapon was only in its early experimentation stages by the end of the war, but when it was put into mass production it became the Soviets standard front line rifle, only to be replaced shortly after by the AK47. However after its initial design in 1944 over 15,000,000 SKS rifles were produced.
Specifications:
Weight: 3.85 kg (8 lb 8 oz)
Length: 1,021 mm (40.2 in)
Ammo: 7.62x39mm 10 round stripper clip
Action: Short stroke gas piston, tilting bolt, self-loading
Range: 500 (550 yd)
Rate of Fire: Semi-Automatic
Chapter Two: Axis Infantry Weapons
German
Mauser Karabiner 98k
The Karabiner 98k (Kurz) was the standard issue rifle to the German Wehrmacht during WWII and was the final design in a long line of Mauser weapons. The 98k was an upgraded version of the 98b, witch had a longer barrel and was only named a Karabiner (Carbine) in name alone. The 98k was a reliable and accuate weapon that prooved itself to be tough and easy to maintaine, it could have a scope easily attatched for use as a sniper rifle and could launch grenades much like the M1 Garand. Designed and manufactured in 1935 by Mauser factories almost 15 million where produced before the factories halted production at the end of the war in 1945. The weapon has seen use in most conflicts since its creation and is still in wide use today, maily used in cerimonies.
Specifications:
Weight: 3.7 kg (8.2 lb)
Length: 1,110 mm (43.70 in)
Ammo: 7.92x57mm IS (Infantry Standard) 5 round stripper clip
Action: Bolt action
Range: 500 m (550 yards)
Gewehr 43k
Before the Gewehr 43k was standardised it began as the G41M, a Mauser made rifle, and the G41W a Walther arms weapon. Both companies practically competed with each other to produce the better semi-automatic rifle for use by the German military. The G41M was a horrible failure, only 12 000 where built before it was scrapped and the G41W pulled ahead for production but it still suffered from reliability problems. Further modifications brought the G41k up to standard and was renamed the Gewehr 43k. The weapon was never mass produced due to continued reliability issues and it was only intended to be used by designated marksmen, only 400 000 rifles where built by Walther Arms between 1943 and 1945 and has seen limited use in other conflicts.
Specifications:
Weight: 4.1 kg (9.7 lb)
Length: 1130 mm (44.4 in)
Ammo: 7.92x57mm (Mauser) 10 round magazine
Action: Gas operated, semi automatic
Range: 500 m (550 yards)
MP40 SMG
The Maschinenpistole 40 was a very reliable sub machine gun used mainly by paratroopers or NCO’s and Officers. A simple and effective weapon it was the answer to the German armies needs for a tough, reliable and accuate submachinegun, orriginaly the MP18 (The first ever mass produced submachinegun) used in WWI it went though several modifications in order to simplify its construction and reduce costs. Only 1 million where produced between 1940 and 1945 and has seen limited use in other wars.
Specifications:
Weight: 4 kg (8.82 lb)
Length: 833 mm (32.8 in)
Ammo: 9x19mm (Parabellum) 32 round magazine
Action: open bolt, automatic
Range: 90 m (100 yards)
Rate of Fire: 550 RPM
Luger Pistol
The P08 Pistole-Parabellum, or more commonly known as the Luger for its creator, Georg Luger. Was a favoured pistol of the officer class in the German Army and was truly unique in its design. Unlike other semi-automatic pistols that used a sliding breach to eject empty shells and load a fresh round into the chamber, the P08’s entire barrel slid back from the force of the recoil. Using a toggle and breach mechanism the pistol relied heavily on the recoil of the bullet exiting the barrel to eject and load a new bullet, as the barrel travelled backwards the “Knee Joint” folds back before snapping forward again and pushing the next bullet into the chamber. The action only takes a fraction of a second, but requires high-pressure bullets for it to work properly. If low pressure are used it could cause the weapon to jam simply because the bullet doesn’t have the power needed to push the barrel back far enough. There where many variants of the Luger built for different uses in separate areas of military service, one of the better-known variants is the Lange Pisole 08 (Long Pistol) or Artillery Pistol. Used as a personal defence weapon by German artillery crews, the Lange Pistol featured a longer barrel and an attachable stock and could be fitted with a 32 round drum magazine, effectively turning the pistol into a short Carbine. Between 1908 and 1945 well over Six Million where produced by Mauser and an assortment of German weapons companies. The pistol has fallen out of service use but is still a sought after collectable.
Specifications:
Weight: 0.87 kg (1.92 lbs)
Length: 222mm (8.75 in)
Ammo: 9x19mm (Parabellum) 8 round magazine or 32 round drum (Lange Pistole)
Action: Semi-automatic, toggle locked
Range: 60 m (65 yards)
STG 44 Assault rifle
The Sturmgewehr (Storm Rifle) 44 was a German Machine Rifle that many belive to be the father of todays assault rifes. The first of its kind ever to see mass production the StG 44 proved to be a valuable weapon in the German War machine. As with most submachine guns and machine pistols, the StG was extrealy difficult to control when used for full auto firing and thus the German commanders sent out orders stating that the full auto mode was only to be used in emergencies. C. G. Haenel Waffen and Fahrradfabrik produced the weapon for only a year in 1944 and so where only able to manufacture just under 500,000 units of the weapon, however due to its late introduction into the war it had little effect on the outcome.
Specifications:
Weight: 5.22 kg (11.5 lb)
Length: 940 mm (37 in)
Ammo: 7.92x33mm K (Kurz) 30 round magazine
Action: Gas operated, tilting bolt.
Range: 300 m (328 yards)
Rate of Fire: 500 RPM
MG-42 machinegun
The Maschinengewehr (Machine Gun) 42 is the most well-known and easily recognisable machinegun from the German forces in WWII. It was a universal machinegun that saw use in every aspect of warfiar from being carried by infantry to support troops to having four of them mounted on a frame and acting as a (rather effective) anti-air gun. It is also famous for being one of the few single barrel, infantry-portable machineguns with an ability to lay down an insane amount of suppressive fire. With the addition of its simple design, quick barrel change and belt fed system the MG 42 had a major advantage over most other machineguns on the field in WWII. The MG 42 is no longer in service but its revolutionary designs paved the way for most modern Machineguns and many of its varients are still in heavy use today. Between 1942 and 1945 Mauser led the way in producing over 750,000 MG 42 machineguns.
Specifications:
Weight: 11.57 kg (25.51 lb)
Length: 1,120 mm (44.1 in)
Ammo: 7.92x57mm (Mauser) 50 or 250 round belt
Action: Recoil operated
Range: 1000 m (1094 yards)
Rate of Fire: 1,500 RPM
Panzerschreck
The Panzerschreck or Raketenpanzerbüchse was a rocket launcher used by the German forces to take out allied tanks and was the very first actual RPG, firing a grenade with stabalizing fins attactched to the warhead. Some varients of the weapon had a small setback, being that when it fired the smoke from the launch was blown out both the front and back of the tube, thus giving away the fire teams position easily, this setback aslo earned it the nickname Ofenrohr (Stove Pipe). Never the less it proved to be one of the most successful anti-tank weapons fielded in WWII. Just under 300,000 where built between 1943 and 1945 by Mauser and its afliliates.
Specifications:
Weight: 11 kg (empty) (24.3 lb)
Length: 1640 mm (64.3 in)
Ammo: HEAT Rocket
Action: Rocket propelled
Range: 150 m (164 yards)
Double Barrelled Shotgun – Spencer model
The Spencer model 1883 double barrel shotgun was a design made famous not by its use in WWII, but by its use in the “Wild West” of America. The shotgun was originally designed in the 1850’s and since then has spread across the world, seeing use before the war as a “Coach Gun” it was used by coach drivers and messengers to hold off attackers. It was never issued to German troops and mainly saw use in the war by poorly equipped partisans. However there where reported cases of German soldiers using shotguns to execute prisoners. But since shotguns where never very popular in the German army they didn’t have a lot of ammunition. Because of this most shotgun executions where done on a bridge, where two prisoners were tied to together before one prisoner was executed and thrown over the bridge, the dead weight drowned the prisoner who didn’t get shot. Double barrel shotguns have been in production since the 1850’s and have flooded the world; today they are mostly used as hunting weapons.
Specifications:
Weight: 3.6 kg (8 lb)
Length: 1000 mm (39 in)
Ammo: 12-gauge shotgun shells 2 barrels single loaded
Action: break-lock
Range: 20 m (22 yards)
MG 34 Machinegun
Paving the way for the MG 42 was the Maschinengewehr (Machine Gun) 34 general-purpose light machine gun. Similer to the MG 42 the MG 34 was just as reliable as its predecessor, however slightly more complicated to handle. It was mainly fed from a drum magazine and it couldn’t put out the mass of fire the MG 42 could, but the weapon could still hold its own in a battle. Using the same ammunition the MG 34 could still rip through infantry and light cover with realative ease and saw use right up to the end of the war. The weapon could also be mounted and fed by a belt in order to give a heavier support role, ultimatly the MG 34 was slightly more mobile then the MG 42 dispite being heavier and served it’s purpose with deadly efficiantcy. Mauser was again the leader in producing almost One Million of these weapons between 1934 and 1945.
Specifications:
Weight: 21.6 kg (26.7 lb)
Length: 1,219 mm (48 in)
Ammo: 7.92x57mm (Mauser) 50 round drum or 100 round belts
Action: Recoil-operated
Range: 800 m (875 yards)
Rate of Fire: 800 RPM
FG 42
The Fallschirmjägergewehr (Paratrooper Rifle) 42 was intended to be the standard issue weapon to the German Fallschirmjäger (Parachute Infantry) in WWII and was considered to be one of the most advanced weapons of its time, helping to pave the way for the modern assault rifle. However it was only produced in small numbers and couldn’t meet demand meaning that most Fallschirmjäger where issued with the 98k bolt action rifle, much to the dismay of the troopers who had to drop with only a pistol and a few grenades while the rest of their equipiment was dropped seperatly. The FG 42 was built so it could be carried on the person of the German paratroopers so they could defend themselves as soon as they landed, rather then having to search for the dropped crates. The weapon was accuate enough to become popular among marksmen and could be fitted with a low power scope. Between 1943 and 1945 Heinrich Krieghoff Waffenfabrik and others manufactured just under 200,000 weapons for the Paratrooper Infantry.
Specifications:
Weight: 4.2 kg (9.3 lb)
Length: 945 mm (37.2 in)
Ammo: 7.92x57mm (Mauser) 20 round magazine
Action: Gas operated
Range: 500 m (547 yards)
Rate of Fire: 900 RPM
Stick Grenade
The Stielhandgranate is one of the most easily recognisable explosive weapons of WWII and WWI. Unique to Germany the Stielhandgranate (or Potato Masher as Allied forces called it) operaited in a very different way to most other grenades in that the weilder had to unscrew the base of the handle and pull a small ball attatched to a cord that ignighted the fuse. The eariler versions of the grenade didn’t have the screw off base and the cord was left to dangle out of the handle, ready to snag onto anything it could. The pull cord design enabled soldiers to trap fences by hanging the grenades by the cords from them, any large movement on the wire (Such as someone trying to climb over it or pull it down) would cause the grenade to become live and fall from its roost. Dispite its advantages in design the detonator was extreamly simple and an extrealy cold climate could prevent it from ignighting. The handle could be detached from the explosive head so the detonator could be removed for transport, once the grenades arrived at their destination they would be reassembled and had warnings written on them to remind the soldiers to reinsert the detonators before use. As with all other grenades, untold millions where built between 1915 and 1945.
Specifications:
Weight: 45 g (1 lb)
Filling: HE (High Explosive) powder
Detonation: Pull cord with a 5 second fuse
Walther P38
The Walther P38 was intended to be the successor of the Luger P08 pistol; it incorporated the sliding barrel design of the Luger but was built with a double-action trigger and external hammer. The design enabled the pistol to have a round loaded directly into the chamber and let the user (carefully) lower hammer so the weapon could be carried around fully loaded and ready to fire without needing to cock the weapon, it also meant the weapon had an extra bullet to fire before using the rounds in the clip. Just over One Million where built by Walther and Mauser from 1938 to 1945 and the pistol is still in use today.
Specifications:
Weight: 0.8 kg (1.12 lb)
Length: 216 mm (8.5 in)
Ammo: 9x19mm (Parabellum) 8 round magazine ( +1 if extra round loaded directly into the chamber)
Action: Recoil operated
Range: 50 m (164 ft)
STG 45 Assault rifle
The Sturmgewehr (Storm Rifle) 45M Assault Rifle would have been the bane of the Allied Infanrty forces. The very first True Assault Rifle the STG 45M was the pinnical of German weapons technolagy. Incorporating the firing mechenisum of the MG 42 with the stability and accuacy of a 98k, this weapon would have given a well trained German soldier the ability to hold his own against a larger number of enemies and a whole squad would have been able to repel almost any number of foes. Unfortuatly for the Germans only 30 prototypes where built by Mauser before the end of the war, never actualy seeing combat the rifle was none the less a truly remarkable weapon and could be produced for almost half the price of the STG 44. After the war the Mauser engineers continued their work in France, developing the weapon futher and perfecting the design, the most famous varient of the STG 45 is the MP5, dispite being smaller in size and caliber the MP5 uses almost the exact same design features of the STG 45.
Specifications:
Weight: 5.22 kg (11.5 lb)
Length: 940 mm (37 in)
Ammo: 7.92x33mm K (Kurz) 30 round magazine
Action: Roller-delayed Blowback
Range: 300 m (328 yards)
Rate of Fire: 450 RPM
Mauser C96
The Construktion 96 was a German pistol that saw use in both WWI and WWII that could have a wooden stock attatched to the base of the handle, effectivly turning the weapon into a Carbine. Not only did the stock give the weapon stability, but it also doubled as a holster, with a small latches that could be attatched to a belt built onto one side. Nicknamed the “Box Cannon” due to its large box like magazine situated just before the trigger, the weapon lived up to its name as it was one of the only pistols that could fire rifle rounds. The C96 was practicaly the Magnum of its time and is still used by many milita forces around the world. The C96’s design has been copied by a large number of countries, most notably China and Spain. From 1896 to 1937 Mauser produced over One Million units of the pistol for almost the same cost of a Luger.
Specifications:
Weight: 1.1 kg (2 lb)
Length: 312 mm (12.3 in)
Ammo: 7.92x57mm (Mauser) 10 round magazine (40 round magazines where also made but where rare)
Action: Short recoil
Range: 185 m (200 yards)
Walther PPK
The Walther PPK (Polizeipistole Kriminalmodell) (Police Pistol Detective Model), is probably the most famous German weapon ever built simply because it was the weapon that Adolf Hitler supposably killed himself with in Berlin. Aside from this clam to fame it is also the weapon most used by James Bond. Being a smaller pistol it was easy to conceal and was one of the worlds more successful double-action semi-automatic pistols. The decision to move away from sliding barrel design of the P08, P38 and C96 meant the weapon had less power then the other German pistols, but still proved to be a popular weapon due to its small size and comfortable grip. It began production in 1929 and is still being produced today by non-German companies who either stole or brought the designs off Walther after the war.
Specifications:
Weight: 0.6 kg (0.9 lb)
Length: 155 mm (6.1 in)
Ammo: 9x19mm (Parabellum) 6 round magazine
Action: Straight Blowback
Range: 50 m (54.7 yards)
Suomi Flamethrower
The Suomi Submachinegun was a standard submachinegun of the time, the barrel was heavier then most but was still a very accurate weapon. One version was designed to be attached to the gun ports of tanks and was very popular amongst tank crews. It was used mainly by strike units who raided bunkers and engaged in close combat and with the under barrel flamethrower it wreaked havoc. The weapon itself is rather heavy to begin with, but with the addition of the flamethrower and fuel tank it became a very heavy weapon and could really only be used effectively by strong soldiers.
Specifications:
Weight: 8.07kg (20.16lb)
Length: 34.25 in (87 cm)
Ammo: 9x19 (Parabellum) 50 round box magazine
Action: Straight Blowback
Range: 50 m (54.7 yards)
Flamethrower Range: 4.5 m (5 yards)
Rate of Fire: 700 RPM
Italian
Carcano M91/M38
The Modello 1891 was the standard issue Italian bolt-action rifle used in WWI and WWII. Although referred to as the Carcano M91 (for its creator Salvatore Carcano), by non Italian Countries, the Italians themselves never officially named the weapon. Like most bolt-action rifles, the Carcano proved to an accurate and reliable weapon. Easy to use and maintain, the M38 was also used sporadically by some German forces in Africa. The ammunition used in the M91 weapons where a different story though, due to mixing two types of powder together the Italians found that the effectiveness of the bullets where varied and unpredictable, some rounds travelled the distance they where meant to go, while most fell short of their targets or failed to penetrate the skin. A few reported that the recoil of a shot was so powerful that it left massive bruises on the shooters shoulder. After the Modello 1938 was built the ammunition was changed (just in time for WWII) to a more reliable and standard type. Produced from 1892 to 1945 well over Three Million of the Corcano’s where built, with the shorter M38 being the more popular and fitted with a scope for marksmen.
Specifications:
Weight: 3.8 kg (8.9 lb) M91 / 2.9 kg (6.3 lb) M38
Length: 1295 mm (49.9 in) M91 / 990mm (38.9 in)
Ammo: 6.5x52mm Carcano M91 / 7.35x51mm Carcano M38 (Spitzer)
Action: Bolt-action
Range: 600 m (656 yards)
Beretta Model 38
The Moschetto Automatico Beretta Modello 1938A or simply the Beretta 38 was a robust and powerful submachine gun used mainly by the Italian forces in WWII. It prooved itself to a submachine gun of great value to whoever was using it, having more accuacy at longer ranges then most other SMG’s it was ideal for both short and medium ranged fire fights. Being light and versitile it was an ideal choice for assault troops and led the charge on most Italian assault missions. Its main drawback though was its time consuming and expencive production costs, meaning that only 500,000 where produced by Beretta from its designing in 1935 through to 1945.
Specifications:
Weight: 3.3 kg (7.2 lb)
Length: 800 mm (31.4 in)
Ammo: 9x19mm (Cartuccia Modello 38) 30 round magazine
Action: Blowback
Range: 250 m (275 yards)
Rate of Fire: 600RPM
Breda Model 30
The Fucile Mitragliatore Breda modello 30 or simply Breda 30 was the italian standard light machinegun in WWII. Overall this weapon was not a good machinegun, It was heavy and cumbersom, making it difficult to transport by infanrty and used a weak round in fragile clips. It was extreamly prone to jamming due to its lubericating action, easily picking up dirt, dust and sand and also meant that the barrel overheated quickly. This extream excess of heat from the barrel actualy caused the bullets to “cook off” in the chamber and fire prematurly, making this weapon extreamly dangerous to handle. Never the less, between 1930 and 1945 Breda manufactured over 300,000 machineguns.
Specifications:
Weight: 10.6 kg (23.3 lb)
Length: 1230 mm (48.4 in)
Ammo: 6.5x52mm (Mannlicher-Carcano) 20 round stripper clip
Action: Closed bolt, blow back
Range: 800 m (872 yards)
Rate of Fire: 500RPM
Beretta M1934
Beretta has had a hand in making firearms since 1526 when they where commissioned to make barrels for the old muskets. Since then Beretta has surged forward in weapons with the M1934 being one their proudest products in WWII. The M1934 was Beretta’s answer to the Italian military when they asked for a pistol to be built like that of the Walther PP. Beretta improved on the design and the Italian military took it into service in 1937. The Beretta 1934 has a made a name for itself when it was used in the assassination of Mahatma Gandhi, and it was also the weapon of choice for the famous Australian criminal Mark “Chopper” Read. Well over One Million where built between 1934 and 1991 and they are still in wide use today.
Specifications:
Weight: 0.75 kg (1.6)
Length: 150 mm (5.91 in)
Ammo: 9×17mm Browning Short (.380 ACP) 7 round magazine
Action: Blowback
Range: 50 m (164 ft)
Italian Grenade
The Bomba a Mano Moddello 35 or “Red Devil” hand grenades where used by Italian forces in WWII, they earned their nickname from the British forces who mostly fought the Italians in the African deserts. They where notorious for delayed explosions. Most British forces would retreat from the grenade when it was thrown, but after a few minutes without detonation they would believe it to be a dud, and so would return to their old position, only to have the grenade explode in their hands. This was not the intended mechanism for the grenade, but it served a purpose in luring in enemy troops who believed they where safe. The delayed detonation didn’t happen often, but it occurred more often then the throwers would have liked. As with all grenades, untold millions where built by many companies.
Specifications:
Weight: 45 g (1 lb)
Filling: HE (High Explosive) TNT
Detonation: 6 second fuse
TZ-45
The TZ-45 was constructed by the Giandoso brothers Tonon and Zorzoli in their own small factory in 1944 and was issued to the R.S.I for use in fighting partisans. The weapon incorporated a few interesting and revolutionary features such as a guide rod that telescopes as the bolt comes back after firing and a double safety system that all other submachineguns lacked. Like most SMG's the TZ-45 had a 'safe' position on the fire selector, but it also had a second 'safe grip' located behind the magazine housing. Holding the weapon properly would mean the grip was compressed and the weapon could be fired. This prevented the weapon from miss-firing if it was bumped or jarred witch was a very common problem with most SMG's of the time. Around 6000 TZ-45's were produced by the brothers between 1944 and 1945.
Specifications:
Weight: 3.2 kg (7 lb)
Length: 845 mm (33.27 in)
Ammo: 9x19 mm Parabellum, 9mm Fiocchi (40 round Box Magazine)
Action: API Blowback, selective fire
Range: 150 m (490 ft)
Rate of Fire: 800 rpm
Breda 37
The Breda Modello 37 Heavy Machinegun contained many of the same problems as the Breda 30 but overall was a more reliable machinegun. Intended for a Company and Battalion support role the Breda 37 however still uses 20 round stripper clips and is much less mobile then the Breda 30 plus, unlike every other Machinegun in the war, continual rapid fire was only possible with a second gunner feeding strips into the breach. Around 100,000 of these heavy guns were built by Breda between 1937 and 1943.
Specifications:
Weight: 17.5 kg (38.5 lbs)
Length: 1270 mm (50 in)
Ammo: 6.5x52mm (Mannlicher-Carcano) 20 round stripper clip
Action: Gas-operated, air-cooled
Range: 1000 m (3,280 ft)
Rate of Fire: 460 RPM
