Panzerbüchse 39 German Anti-Tank Rifle

Published on April 7, 2015
Duration: 9:49

This entry details the Panzerbüchse 39 anti-tank rifle, a significant weapon from the early stages of WWII. Expert Ian McCollum provides a deep dive into its mechanics, historical context, and performance. The PzB 39, while effective against early armor, was eventually outclassed, leading to its conversion into grenade launchers. Its unique falling block action and powerful PzB 318 cartridge are highlighted.

Quick Summary

The Panzerbüchse 39 was a German anti-tank rifle used in early WWII, firing the powerful 7.92x94mm PzB 318 cartridge. It featured a unique falling block action operated by the pistol grip and could penetrate 30mm of armor at 100 meters. Many were later converted into grenade launchers.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to the PzB 39
  2. 01:05International Context and Role Shift
  3. 01:41Development and Cartridge Specs
  4. 02:21Performance and Production
  5. 03:06Mechanical Design Overview
  6. 04:00Action Operation
  7. 05:01Ammunition Storage Boxes
  8. 06:12Stock and Bipod Mechanics
  9. 07:25Conversion to Grenade Launcher
  10. 08:59Legal Status and Auction

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the primary role of the Panzerbüchse 39?

The Panzerbüchse 39 was designed as an anti-tank rifle for use at the start of WWII. While effective against early tank armor, its role shifted to anti-material targets like trucks and fortified positions as tank armor improved.

What caliber and cartridge did the Panzerbüchse 39 use?

The Panzerbüchse 39 fired the specialized 7.92x94mm PzB 318 cartridge. This round featured a large bottlenecked brass case and fired a 224-grain armor-piercing bullet at approximately 3,800 feet per second.

How did the Panzerbüchse 39 operate?

The PzB 39 utilized a unique falling block action, operated by a lever integrated into the pistol grip. This allowed for manual loading of single rounds into the breech.

What happened to many Panzerbüchse 39 rifles later in the war?

Later in World War II, a significant number of Panzerbüchse 39 rifles were converted into grenade launchers, designated as the Granatbüchse 39 (GrB 39). This involved shortening the barrel and adding a cup launcher.

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