Fallschirmjägergewehr 42
Fallschirmjägergewehr 42 | |
Specifications | |
Type | automatic Rifle |
Caliber | 7.92mm |
Feed System | 20 Round Box |
Muzzle Velocity | 761m/s |
Maximum Effective Range | 600m |
History
The Fallschirmjägergewehr 42 (FG42) began after the fiasco of invasion of Crete. German Fallschirmjäger harness meant that the troops dropped without a main weapon. The Harness forced them to land on their hands and feet. This awkward landing position meant that when they jumped they where only armed with a sidearm and knife. Once they landed the Fallschirmjäger would have quickly to find a dropped supply canister and arm themselves with a main battle weapon. This of course in a contested drop zone led to massive casualties. Realising that the troopers needed a weapon they could jump with the Luftwaffe set about developing a light weight full automatic rifle. The result was the FG42. It combined the characteristics and firepower of a light machine gun in a lightweight form slightly shorter (but considerably bulkier and heavier) than the standard-issue Karabiner 98k bolt-action infantry rifle. The FG42 made it combat debut in 1943 and it was considered one of the most advanced weapon designs of World War II. However since it was intended for niche role it saw limited production with around 7000 manufactured.
Game Play