Evolution of the Sturmgewehr: MP43/1, MP43, MP44, and StG44

The Haenel MKb42(H) was the original prototype for the German Sturmgewehr, pioneering the intermediate cartridge and selective-fire concept. Despite initial rejection by Hitler, its stamped construction and open-bolt design addressed wartime material shortages and provided increased firepower. Lessons learned from its troop trials directly influenced the development of the iconic MP43/StG 44 series.

Larry Vickers provides an expert overview of the Sturmgewehr (MP44/StG 44), detailing its significance as the first true assault rifle. He discusses its intermediate 8x33mm Kurz cartridge, design flaws like the hot handguard and magazine 'nose dive,' and its operational mechanism. The guide includes a field stripping demonstration, highlighting the importance of the wooden buttstock and recoil spring.

This video delves into the 'Gerat 06', exploring Germany's developmental journey towards roller-delayed blowback firearms. It connects this experimental weapon to the lineage of iconic German rifles like the STG series, including the MP44, MP43, STG44, and STG45, highlighting the incremental steps taken in firearm design during and after WWII. The analysis likely focuses on the technical evolution and historical context of these firearms.

This review covers the new US-made StG44/MP44 clone by DK Productions, chambered in the original 7.92x33mm Kurz. The rifle is a near-identical semi-automatic reproduction, featuring sheet metal stampings and wood furniture. Ballistics testing shows the Kurz round performs comparably to 7.62x39mm, and the rifle itself is noted for its smooth operation. While expensive at $6,200 MSRP, it offers a historically accurate experience.

A US-made StG44 reproduction by DK Productions is now available, chambered in the historical 7.92x33mm Kurz caliber. The review includes a live-fire demonstration at an outdoor range, showcasing the rifle's functionality. This release marks a significant availability of the iconic WWII firearm for the US market.

This video debunks the myth of optics being standard on Sturmgewehrs, revealing they were a rare, problematic addition. Early attempts with the ZF41 on the MKB 42(H) were superseded by the ZF4, intended for universal use. However, historical tests showed the scoped Sturmgewehr performed poorly, with unstable mounts losing zero quickly, leading to the project's cancellation.

This video details the unique 'French Finger Trap' issue with the MAS-36 rifle's bayonet, where two rifles can become unintentionally locked together. A 1951 French arsenal memorandum identified this problem, proposing a simple modification to the bayonet handle. Drilling a small hole allows a tool, like a firing pin, to depress the internal spring, enabling the separation of locked rifles.

The M134 Minigun is a scaled-down 7.62 NATO rotary cannon, requiring 24V DC power and consuming 1.5 kW. Its high rate of fire (3,000+ RPM) is essential for aircraft engagement windows. The complex delinker mechanism is critical for feeding ammunition, and practical hand-held use is impossible due to weight and recoil. Live fire demonstrates rapid ammunition consumption and the need for indirect aiming.

The H&K G11 is a revolutionary prototype assault rifle designed in the late 20th century, notable for its caseless ammunition and unique rotating drum bolt mechanism. Despite advanced features like a 2000 RPM burst fire rate and integrated optics, its development was ultimately halted by geopolitical shifts and cost concerns.

This video demonstrates the assembly and live-fire of the German 1936 pattern light mortar (L.Gr.W.36). It highlights the mortar's leveling mechanism for accuracy and the difficulty in visually tracking its 50mm projectiles after firing. The content showcases historical military hardware and its operational use.