Volkssturmgewehr VG 1-5

Gustloff-Werke · Rifle · Out Of Production · 1945

Weight (empty)4600 g (162.3 oz)
Overall Length885 mm (34.84")
Barrel Length378 mm (14.88")
Magazine Capacity30 rounds
Action TypeGas Delayed Blowback
Firing MechanismHammer Fired
Muzzle Velocity655 m/s (2149 fps)
Muzzle Energy1735 J (1280 ft·lbf)
Effective Range300 m (328 yd)
Frame MaterialSteel

Primary Caliber: 7.92x33mm Kurz

The Volkssturmgewehr VG 1-5 (also designated MP 507) was a last-ditch semi-automatic rifle developed by Karl Barnitzke at Gustloff-Werke in Suhl as part of Nazi Germany's 'Primitiv-Waffen-Programm' in late 1944. Chambered in 7.92x33mm Kurz and feeding from standard StG 44 magazines, it used an unusual gas-delayed blowback action (the Barnitzke system) where gas bled near the chamber resisted the rearward bolt impulse until the bullet left the muzzle. Construction was deliberately crude, using st...

Country of Origin: Germany

Designer: Karl Barnitzke