20mm Lahti L39 Antitank Rifle (Shooting & History)

Published on September 12, 2016
Duration: 13:44

This guide details the firing procedure for the Lahti L39 antitank rifle, as demonstrated by Ian McCollum. It covers essential steps from safety checks to cycling the action and firing. A critical safety warning regarding brass ejection is emphasized, highlighting the need for expert handling due to the weapon's historical design quirks.

Quick Summary

The Lahti L39 is a 20mm Finnish antitank rifle firing the powerful 20x138mmB cartridge with ~35,000 ft-lbs of muzzle energy. It's a gas-operated semi-automatic featuring a 10-round top magazine and a unique ratcheting crank handle for cycling. Extreme caution is advised due to violent brass ejection.

Chapters

  1. 00:19Introduction and Historical Context
  2. 02:12Development and Design Philosophy
  3. 04:36Ammunition and Ballistics
  4. 05:54Mechanical Operation and Safety
  5. 08:31Firing Procedure and Features

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Lahti L39 antitank rifle?

The Lahti L39 is a 20mm semi-automatic antitank rifle designed by Aimo Lahti of Finland. Adopted in 1939, it was intended to combat early-war armored vehicles and saw significant use in the Continuation War.

What caliber does the Lahti L39 use and how powerful is it?

The Lahti L39 fires the 20x138mmB Solothurn Long cartridge, delivering approximately 35,000 ft-lbs of muzzle energy. This is roughly three times the energy of a .50 BMG round.

How does the Lahti L39 operate mechanically?

It's a gas-operated, semi-automatic rifle that locks open after each shot. It features a 10-round top-mounted magazine and a distinctive ratcheting crank handle to cycle the heavy recoil spring.

What are the key safety considerations for the Lahti L39?

A critical safety warning involves never placing hands in front of the trigger guard due to the violent rearward ejection of large brass cases. Proper handling and awareness of historical design quirks are essential.

More Training & Techniques Videos You Might Like

More from Forgotten Weapons

View all →