Could a Tankgewehr Really Take Out a British MkIV Tank?

Published on May 6, 2017
Duration: 7:48

This guide details a test simulating the effectiveness of the German Mauser Tankgewehr M1918 against British MkIV tank armor. Expert analysis by Ian McCollum demonstrates the rifle's ability to penetrate flat 12mm armor at 50 yards but its failure against angled surfaces, highlighting the importance of armor design in early tank warfare.

Quick Summary

The Mauser Tankgewehr M1918, firing a 13.2mm round, could penetrate 12mm of flat AR450 steel armor at 50 yards. However, it failed to penetrate when the armor was angled at 45 degrees, demonstrating the effectiveness of sloped armor in WWI tank design.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to the Mauser Tankgewehr M1918
  2. 01:26British Tank Armor Specifications
  3. 03:11First Test: 90-Degree Impact
  4. 04:41Second Test: 45-Degree Angled Impact
  5. 06:18Conclusion and Lethality Analysis

Frequently Asked Questions

Could the German Tankgewehr M1918 penetrate a British MkIV tank?

The Mauser Tankgewehr M1918, firing a 13.2mm round, could penetrate 12mm of flat AR450 steel armor at 50 yards. However, it failed to penetrate when the armor was angled at 45 degrees, demonstrating the effectiveness of sloped armor in WWI tank design.

What were the specifications of the British MkIV tank armor tested?

The test simulated the thickest armor section of a British MkIV tank, using a 12mm AR450 steel plate. Historical specifications for these tanks included armor thicknesses of 6mm, 8mm, and 12mm, with armor through-hardened to 440-480 Brinell.

What was the effective range and caliber of the Tankgewehr M1918?

The Mauser Tankgewehr M1918 was chambered for the 13.2x92mmSR TuF cartridge. Tests were conducted at 50 yards, demonstrating its capability to penetrate specific armor thicknesses at this range.

How did angled armor affect the Tankgewehr's effectiveness?

When the 12mm armor plate was angled at 45 degrees, the effective armor thickness increased to approximately 16-17mm. This increased thickness prevented penetration by the 13.2mm Tankgewehr round, highlighting the importance of armor slope.

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