HK-32 Prototype in 7.62x39mm

Published on February 20, 2019
Duration: 16:10

This video provides an in-depth look at an extremely early HK32 prototype rifle chambered in 7.62x39mm, presented by Ian McCollum of Forgotten Weapons. The rifle, manufactured in September 1957, showcases significant design influences from the CETME rifle, including its muzzle brake, forend, rear sight, and fire control group. The HK32's development is explored, highlighting its place in HK's early history and its divergence from later G3 designs, particularly in its internal mechanisms and external features. The video also touches upon the limited production and documentation surrounding the HK32.

Quick Summary

The HK32 prototype rifle, manufactured in September 1957, is an early Heckler & Koch design chambered in 7.62x39mm. It showcases significant influences from the CETME rifle, including its muzzle brake, forend, and rear sight, and features a unique integrated rifle grenade sight.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to HK32 Prototype
  2. 00:21HK Nomenclature System Explained
  3. 00:41HK21/23 vs. HK32/33 Caliber and Type
  4. 00:79HK32: Select Fire Rifle in 7.62x39mm
  5. 00:85Curved Magazine for 7.62x39mm
  6. 01:05HK32 Production and Contracts
  7. 01:391957 Manufacturing Date and Early HK History
  8. 01:51Serial Number 1727 and Sequential Numbering
  9. 01:59CETME Influence on Early HK Rifles
  10. 02:07CETME-Style Muzzle Brake and Forend
  11. 02:12CETME-like Rear Sight vs. HK Diopter
  12. 02:23CETME-Style Fire Control Group
  13. 02:36Disassembly and Receiver Markings
  14. 02:44Ruling Out Spanish Production
  15. 02:54Serial Number and Production Date Confirmation
  16. 02:57Paddle Magazine Release Feature
  17. 03:05Receiver Design and Filler Block
  18. 03:08Selector Markings: 'SED'
  19. 03:20HK32 Magazine Design and Locking System
  20. 03:47AK-Style Magazine Design
  21. 03:51Serial Number on Magazine
  22. 04:00Later Prototype HK32 Magazine Differences
  23. 04:11CETME Style Magazine Construction
  24. 04:17Early CETME Features on HK32
  25. 04:23Front Sight Block and Muzzle Brake
  26. 04:36Metal Handguard and Fixed Bipod
  27. 04:52Folding Carry Handle Feature
  28. 04:57Buttstock Storage Holes
  29. 05:12Rifle Grenade Sight Feature
  30. 05:26Comparison: CETME vs. HK32 Buttstock
  31. 05:41Recoil Spring Comparison
  32. 05:58Comparison: G3 vs. CETME/HK32 Buttstock
  33. 06:20Comparison: Pistol Grips and Fire Control Assemblies
  34. 06:35Comparison: HK32 vs. G3 Receivers
  35. 07:01Hammer Construction Comparison
  36. 07:18Selector Positions Comparison
  37. 07:31Receiver Size Comparison
  38. 07:51Handguards, Bipods, and Muzzle Brakes
  39. 08:02Bolt Assembly Examination
  40. 08:24Roller-Delayed Blowback Mechanism
  41. 08:44Wedge Angle: 70 Degrees
  42. 08:76Conclusion: Early HK32 Engineering
  43. 08:83The Poorly Documented HK32 Story
  44. 08:93Future Hope for African Contract Rifles
  45. 09:12Thanks to Patrons and Royal Armouries
  46. 09:35Royal Armouries Collection Access
  47. 09:56Conclusion

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the significance of the HK32's designation?

The HK32 designation follows Heckler & Koch's numbering system. The first digit, '3', signifies a select-fire shoulder rifle, while the second digit, '2', indicates the caliber, which in this case is 7.62x39mm.

What are the key CETME design influences seen on the HK32 prototype?

The HK32 prototype exhibits strong CETME influences, including its muzzle brake, metal forend with an integrated bipod, a CETME-style rear sight, and the internal fire control group mechanism, reflecting its early development stage.

When was this specific HK32 prototype manufactured?

This particular HK32 prototype rifle was manufactured in September 1957, making it an extremely early example of Heckler & Koch's firearm development and showcasing their work during the period they were testing CETME rifles.

Does the HK32 use AK-47 magazines?

While a developmental batch of HK32s was made for Finnish trials that used AK magazines, the general HK32 design, including this prototype, uses its own proprietary magazine designed to better fit HK's magazine locking system.

Related News

All News →

More Reviews Videos You Might Like

More from Forgotten Weapons

View all →