MG42

Mauser Werke AG · Machine-Gun · Discontinued · 1942

Weight (empty)11600 g (409.2 oz)
Overall Length1219 mm (47.99")
Barrel Length533 mm (20.98")
Magazine Capacity50 rounds
Action TypeShort Recoil
Firing MechanismOpen Bolt
Muzzle Velocity754 m/s (2474 fps)
Muzzle Energy3700 J (2729 ft·lbf)
Effective Range1000 m (1094 yd)
Frame MaterialSteel

Primary Caliber: 7.92x57mm Mauser

The MG42 (Maschinengewehr 42, or 'Machine Gun 42') is a German general-purpose machine gun developed in 1942 as an improved and simplified replacement for the earlier MG34. Chambered in 7.92x57mm Mauser, the MG42 became one of the most feared weapons of World War II, earning the nickname 'Hitler's Buzzsaw' among Allied troops due to its distinctive extremely high rate of fire of 1,200-1,500 rounds per minute. The weapon revolutionized machine gun design through its extensive use of stamped steel...

Country of Origin: Germany

Designer: Werner Gruner