Cache.Deals

The FG-42 as a Sniper Rifle?

Forgotten Weapons
Published on February 23, 2021
Category: Tactical & Gear
Duration: 11:18

This video delves into the historical context and technical realities of the FG-42 as a sniper rifle. Ian McCollum, demonstrating high expertise, explains the Luftwaffe's intent for the weapon and the evolution of its optics, from the flawed ZFG-42 to the more standard ZF4. He highlights that despite its potential, the FG-42's accuracy was only 4-6 MOA, making it mediocre by modern standards, and authentic scoped variants were rare.

Tags

FG-42
WWII Optics
ZF4 Scope
ZFG-42
Marksman Rifle
German Optics
Aberdeen Proving Ground
Voigtländer
Kar98k
G43

Quick Summary

The FG-42, while designed for multiple roles including sniping, had an accuracy of 4-6 MOA, considered mediocre. Early ZFG-42 scopes failed due to design flaws, leading to the adoption of the more reliable ZF4 (4x magnification) optic. Authentic scoped FG-42s are rare, with scopes often uniquely marked to their specific rifle.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: FG-42 as Sniper Rifle?
  2. 01:22Luftwaffe Requirements & Early Optics
  3. 03:01Failures of the ZFG-42 Scope
  4. 05:04Transition to the ZF4 Scope
  5. 07:38Identifying Authentic FG-42 Optics
  6. 09:38Accuracy & Performance Assessment

Frequently Asked Questions

Was the FG-42 an effective sniper rifle?

While the FG-42 was intended to serve multiple roles, including as a sniper rifle, its accuracy was only 4-6 MOA, which was considered mediocre even for its time. Authentic scoped versions were also quite rare.

What optics were used on the FG-42?

Early FG-42s attempted to use the ZFG-42 scope, which proved unreliable. Later models adopted the ZF4 scope, a 4x magnification optic that also saw service on the Kar98k and G43 rifles.

How accurate was the FG-42 compared to other rifles?

German and US testing indicated the FG-42 had an accuracy of 4 to 6 MOA. This was acceptable for its intended roles but less precise than dedicated sniper rifles of the era or modern precision firearms.

Are scoped FG-42 rifles common?

No, authentic scoped FG-42 rifles issued during WWII were quite rare. Many scopes seen today are modern additions for aesthetic purposes, as original optics were limited and often uniquely fitted to individual rifles.

Related Articles

All Articles →
Glock 19 Gen 5: Complete Guide
Gear Deep Dive20 min read

Glock 19 Gen 5: Complete Guide

Glock 43X: Complete Guide
Gear Deep Dive20 min read

Glock 43X: Complete Guide

More Tactical & Gear Videos You Might Like

Kar98k + Zf41 "DMR" to 500 yds: Practical Accuracy (Feat. InRange TV)
Kar98k + Zf41 "DMR" to 500 yds: Practical Accuracy (Feat. InRange TV)

This video details a practical accuracy test of the Kar98k rifle equipped with a Zf41 scope, engaging targets from 150 to 500 yards. The test highlights the Zf41's role as a precursor to scout scopes and its effectiveness compared to iron sights, despite limitations in magnification and zeroing complexity. Expert commentary from InRange TV provides historical context on the optic's development and battlefield use.

Kar98k
Zf41
Channel:9-Hole Reviews
Category:Tactical & Gear
Date: Sep 17, 2020
Duration: 22:52
Optics on Sturmgewehrs: Was This Really A Thing?
Optics on Sturmgewehrs: Was This Really A Thing?

This guide details the process of mounting optics like the ZF4 or ZF41 onto a Sturmgewehr platform, emphasizing the historical rarity of factory mounts and the performance issues encountered during testing. It highlights the importance of a secure mount and the potential for zero loss, especially after sustained fire. Instruction is provided by Ian McCollum, a recognized expert in historical firearms.

Sturmgewehr
StG 44
Channel:Forgotten Weapons
Category:Tactical & Gear
Date: May 26, 2023
Duration: 11:47
An Interesting Possibility: The FG-42 in 8x33mm Kurz?
An Interesting Possibility: The FG-42 in 8x33mm Kurz?

This entry explores the fascinating hypothetical of the FG-42 rifle chambered in the 8x33mm Kurz cartridge. It delves into the potential benefits for German paratrooper doctrine, historical proposals and rejections, and post-war Swiss adaptations. The analysis highlights the FG-42's design influence on later firearms like the M60.

FG-42
8x33mm Kurz
Channel:Forgotten Weapons
Category:Tactical & Gear
Date: Mar 9, 2021
Duration: 10:27
Finland adopts new strategic small arms.
Finland adopts new strategic small arms.

This video humorously presents historical WWII firearms, the Sturmgewehr (STG-44) and FG-42, as cutting-edge modern prototypes to Finnish representatives. Instructor Karl Kasarda demonstrates their capabilities, including the STG-44's assault rifle role and the FG-42's DMR designation, culminating in a live-fire exercise and procurement discussion. The presentation showcases high authority and expertise in firearm handling and historical context.

Sturmgewehr (STG-44)
FG-42
Channel:InRangeTV
Category:Tactical & Gear
Date: Feb 2, 2020
Duration: 1:41
Find an FFL
Licensed dealers in your area