1918 Mauser Tank Gewehr

Published on August 23, 2015
Duration: 7:59

This expert review from Ian McCollum of Forgotten Weapons details the Mauser 1918 Tank Abwehr Gewehr, the world's first purpose-built anti-tank rifle. It covers its historical context, unique 13.2mm TuF cartridge, impressive armor penetration capabilities (20mm at 100 yards), and mechanical features, highlighting its significance in WWI and influence on later designs like the .50 BMG.

Quick Summary

The Mauser 1918 Tank Abwehr Gewehr was the world's first purpose-built anti-tank rifle, firing the 13.2mm TuF cartridge at 2650 fps. It could penetrate 20mm of armor at 100 yards and generated approximately 12,500 foot-pounds of energy, significantly outperforming contemporary rifle cartridges.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Mauser 1918 Tank Abwehr Gewehr
  2. 00:30Historical Context: WWI Tank Development
  3. 01:13Cartridge and Ballistics: 13.2mm TuF
  4. 02:04Handling and Weight: 41 lbs of Power
  5. 03:12Effectiveness and Production: 20mm Penetration
  6. 04:25Mechanical Features: Bolt and Grip
  7. 05:25Sights and Bipod: Mauser 98 Style
  8. 06:57Legal Status and Conclusion: NFA Exemption

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the Mauser 1918 Tank Abwehr Gewehr designed for?

The Mauser 1918 Tank Abwehr Gewehr was designed as the world's first purpose-built anti-tank rifle. It was developed in 1918 by Mauser, scaling up their standard rifle design to counter the threat posed by British tanks introduced in WWI.

What caliber and performance did the Mauser 1918 Tank Abwehr Gewehr offer?

It fired the 13.2mm TuF cartridge, launching a 795-grain armor-piercing bullet at 2650 fps. This round could penetrate 20mm of vertical armor at 100 yards and generated roughly 12,500 foot-pounds of energy.

What are the key mechanical features of the Mauser 1918 Tank Abwehr Gewehr?

The rifle features a robust bolt with four locking lugs to handle high pressures. It also has a pistol grip due to the wide stock, scaled-up Mauser 98-style sights graduated to 500 yards, and a bipod interchangeable with the MG08/15 machine gun mount.

How is the Mauser 1918 Tank Abwehr Gewehr classified legally in the US?

Despite its formidable anti-materiel capabilities, the Mauser 1918 Tank Abwehr Gewehr is specifically exempted from NFA 'destructive device' status in the United States and is treated as a standard rifle.

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