VG45K: Rheinmetall's 8mm Kurz Volksgewehr

Published on October 8, 2022
Duration: 8:44

This entry details the reproduction Rheinmetall VG-45K, a fascinating piece of WWII German armament history. Ian McCollum of Forgotten Weapons provides an expert look at its development, design, and surprisingly effective range performance. The rifle, part of the Volksgewehr program, showcases extreme cost-cutting with its stamped receiver and simple bolt action, yet proved accurate and reliable during testing with both 10 and 30-round Sturmgewehr magazines.

Quick Summary

The Rheinmetall VG-45K is a reproduction of a late-WWII German 'Volksgewehr' (People's Rifle) chambered in 8mm Kurz (8x33mm). It features a stamped sheet metal receiver and a bolt-action mechanism, designed for simplified, cost-effective production. Despite its crude construction, it demonstrated surprising accuracy and reliability during range testing, accepting StG-44 magazines.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to the VG45K
  2. 00:41Historical Context and Development
  3. 02:13Rarity and Post-War Discovery
  4. 03:30Technical Design and Features
  5. 04:24Range Testing and Performance

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Rheinmetall VG-45K?

The Rheinmetall VG-45K, also known as the VG-3, is a reproduction of a late-World War II German 'Volksgewehr' (People's Rifle) designed for simplified, cost-effective production. It is chambered in 8mm Kurz and features a stamped sheet metal receiver and a bolt-action mechanism.

What caliber is the Rheinmetall VG-45K?

The Rheinmetall VG-45K is chambered in 8mm Kurz, also designated as 8x33mm. This intermediate cartridge was developed for the Sturmgewehr 44 and offers a balance between power and manageable recoil.

What are the key design features of the VG-45K?

The VG-45K is characterized by its stamped, folded sheet metal receiver, a two-lug rotating bolt, and a focus on manufacturing simplicity. It was designed as a last-ditch effort to maintain armament production during the final months of WWII.

Can the VG-45K use Sturmgewehr magazines?

Yes, the Rheinmetall VG-45K reproduction is designed to accept both 10-round and 30-round magazines originally made for the Sturmgewehr 44 (StG-44), utilizing the 8mm Kurz cartridge.

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