The Second World War is often called the war of engines, but it was infantry combat that determined the fate of many battles, and automatic weapons occupied a central place in them. German machine guns of that period became a symbol of the engineering thought of the Third Reich, setting new standards for mass production and tactical flexibility. From early experimental samples to legendary MP-40, which even children recognize by its characteristic silhouette, these types of weapons radically changed the idea of close combat.
The development of automatic weapons in Germany followed the path of finding a balance between rate of fire, weight and production cost. Wehrmacht and Waffen SS engineers were looking for ways to create a weapon that would be more effective than a submachine gun, but smaller and lighter than a full-size rifle. It was German designers who were the first to massively introduce stamp-welded technologies, which reduced the labor intensity of production and simplified maintenance in the field.
In this article we will examine in detail the key models, their technical features and impact on the course of military operations. You will learn how different modifications differed and why some samples never became widespread, remaining rare museum exhibits.
Prerequisites for the creation and requirements of the Wehrmacht
By the beginning of the 1930s, the German command realized the need to modernize small arms. Existing at that time MP-18 and their modifications no longer met the increased requirements of mobile warfare. The main emphasis was on creating compact weapons for tankers, paratroopers and non-commissioned officers who required high density of fire at short distances.
The key requirement was manufacturability. Germany was preparing for a large-scale conflict, and weapons production did not have to depend on scarce resources or complex processing. Stamping instead of milling, it became a revolutionary solution that made it possible to produce thousands of units per month. This required a revision of the entire design of the bolt group and receiver.
The task of unifying cartridges was also set. Although the 9x19 mm Parabellum pistol cartridge remained the main one for submachine guns, development of an intermediate cartridge was already underway, which would later become the basis for assault rifles. The engineers understood that the future belonged to weapons that combined automatic fire and sufficient penetration power.
MP-38: The first step towards mass production
Submachine gun MP-38 became the first mass-produced model devoid of wooden parts. Its design was revolutionary for its time: the aluminum receiver, folding metal stock and lack of a wooden stock made it ideal for use in armored vehicles. The weapon turned out to be light and convenient, although expensive to manufacture due to the use of milled parts.
Main feature MP-38 became a bolt located around the barrel, which made it possible to reduce the overall length of the weapon without reducing the length of the barrel. This ensured good accuracy of combat with compact dimensions. However, the complexity of manufacturing and high cost did not allow us to fully satisfy the needs of the army.
- 🔫 Caliber: 9×19 mm Parabellum
- ⚖️ Weight: 3.97 kg without ammunition
- 📏 Barrel length: 251 mm
- 🎯 Rate of fire: 500 rounds per minute
Despite its merits, MP-38 also had disadvantages. The lack of a safety lock in the classical sense (only a cutout in the bolt handle) often led to accidental shots when dropped or handled carelessly. This required increased discipline and caution from soldiers when carrying loaded weapons.
Pay attention to the position of the cocking handle: in early models it had a round hole, which was later replaced with a slot for easy grip with gloves.
MP-40: Symbol of the German Infantry
Legendary MP-40, or "Schmeisser" (although Hugo Schmeisser was not directly involved in its creation), became the most popular machine gun of the Second World War. Its main feature was maximum adaptation to mass production. Milled parts were replaced by stamped ones, which dramatically reduced the cost and production time.
Construction MP-40 made it possible to quickly disassemble the weapon for cleaning even in the field without the use of special tools. The folding stock ensured compactness during transportation, and the ergonomics of the fire control handle was considered the standard. The weapon was reliable, although susceptible to sand and dirt contamination compared to its Soviet counterparts.
| Characteristics | MP-38 | MP-40 | MP-40/II (exp.) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Receiver material | Milled aluminum | Stamped steel | Stamped steel |
| Weight (kg) | 3,97 | 4,03 | 4,50 |
| Produced (pieces) | ~80 000 | ~1 000 000 | Prototypes |
| Years of manufacture | 1938–1940 | 1940–1945 | 1942 |
In the troops MP-40 appreciated for low recoil and high controllability when firing in bursts. However, at distances over 150 meters, its effectiveness dropped sharply due to the use of a pistol cartridge. Soldiers had to rely on the accuracy of single shots or move closer to the enemy.
The myth of "Schmeisser"
Why is the MP-40 called Schmeisser? This name stuck due to confusion with the name of the famous designer Hugo Schmeisser, who developed the MP-18 and the later StG-44. However, the author of the MP-38/40 is Heinrich Vollmer.
StG-44: Birth of the assault rifle
Appearance StG-44 (Sturmgewehr 44) was a turning point in the history of small arms. It was the world's first assault rifle to use the 7.92x33mm Kurz intermediate cartridge. Concept assault rifle assumed the ability to conduct effective fire at distances of up to 400 meters, which was inaccessible to submachine guns.
Development was carried out in the strictest secrecy under the name "Maschinenpistole 43" to circumvent Hitler's ban on new types of cartridges. Only after successful tests on the Eastern Front did the weapon receive an official name and go into mass production. Gas exhaust automation ensured reliable operation even in difficult conditions.
- 🚀 Initial bullet speed: 685 m/s
- 🎯 Effective range: up to 400 m
- 📦 Magazine capacity: 30 rounds
- ⚙️ Operating principle: removal of powder gases
StG-44 had high penetrating ability and could hit targets wearing body armor and behind light cover. However, its production was launched too late to influence the outcome of the war. However, this model became the prototype for post-war Kalashnikov assault rifles and many Western models.
⚠️ Attention: Early versions of the StG-44 had problems with the reliability of the return spring and required frequent cleaning of the gas chamber. Soldiers were advised to carry additional recoil springs.
Experimental and rare samples
In addition to mass models, there were many experimental developments in Germany. One of them was MP-40/II — a modification with two magazines, allowing you to quickly change power without recharging. Although the idea seemed promising, in practice the second magazine often interfered with shooting and increased weight, so the project was not developed.
Also worth mentioning FG-42 - automatic rifle for paratroopers. It was a complex and expensive weapon with a linear layout and a bipod built into the forend. The FG-42 used a powerful rifle cartridge and was intended for elite Luftwaffe units, but due to the complexity of production it was produced in small quantities.
☑️ Signs of authenticity of a German machine gun
Another interesting example was Volkssturmgewehr - a people's rifle, created at the end of the war from cheap materials. The simplicity of the design reached the point of absurdity: there were often no fuses, and the quality of the metal left much to be desired. This weapon was intended for the militia and was not considered as a full-fledged combat model.
Application tactics and combat use
The German blitzkrieg tactics required high mobility and fire support from the infantry. Submachine gunners usually acted in conjunction with machine gunners, protecting the flanks and clearing premises. MP-40 ideal for urban battles where rapid fire and compactness were required.
With the advent StG-44 tactics have changed. Squads were able to fire at medium distances, previously only available to rifles. This made it possible to suppress the enemy on the approaches to positions without coming into direct contact. However, a shortage of ammunition for the new weapons often limited their use.
Soviet soldiers highly valued captured machine guns, especially MP-40, for their convenience. However, they noted lower barrel survivability and lubrication requirements compared to PPSh. In winter conditions, German grease often thickened, requiring the use of special solutions or kerosene.
The main advantage of German machine guns was ergonomics and manufacturability, and the main disadvantage was their dependence on the quality of ammunition and operating conditions.
Legacy and influence on modern times
The engineering solutions used in German machine guns became the standard for post-war weapons. Stamp-welded structures, folding stocks and intermediate cartridges - all this was tested and introduced into mass production thanks to the experience of World War II. MP-40 and StG-44 laid the foundation for the modern concept of individual automatic weapons.
Many principles, such as modularity and unification, developed during this period. Even today, in modern weapons you can find echoes of the ideas of German designers of the 40s. The study of these samples is important not only for historians, but also for weapons engineers.
Collecting and restoring German machine guns remains a popular hobby. However, it is important to be aware of the legal restrictions and rules for storing historical weapons in your country. Preserving these artifacts allows us to remember the lessons of history.
⚠️ Attention: When handling mock-ups or deactivated versions of machines, always check the documents. Visual similarities to military weapons may raise questions among law enforcement agencies.
Interesting fact
Some parts of the MP-40 were interchangeable with parts of other models, which simplified repairs in the field workshop. This was part of the "repairability" concept.
Why is the MP-40 called Schmeisser if Vollmer created it?
This is a common mistake that arose after the war. Hugo Schmeisser was a famous designer, and during interrogation the Allies attributed to him the authorship of all German machine guns. In fact, Heinrich Vollmer developed the MP-38/40, and Schmeisser worked on the StG-44.
What cartridge was used in the StG-44 and how was it different?
The cartridge used was 7.92x33 mm Kurz. It was shorter and weaker than the 7.92x57 mm rifle, but more powerful than the pistol. This made it possible to conduct automatic fire with acceptable accuracy and penetrate helmets at a distance of up to 400 meters.
Did the MP-40 have suppressors?
Yes, there were experimental designs with integrated or mounted suppressors for special operations. However, they were practically not used by mass troops due to their complexity and reduced muzzle velocity.
How were German machine guns cleaned in the field?
For cleaning, special brushes and rags soaked in oil were used. The design of the MP-40 allowed the bolt group to be quickly removed. Soldiers often used gasoline or kerosene to remove carbon deposits, especially in winter.