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Forums - Research / WW2 |
This WW2 forum is intended for asking and discussing reference or historical related issues pertaining to WW2 (1939-1945) subjects. |
| Topics | 3396 |
| Messages | 15176 |
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| Subject: | 150 |  |
| Date: | May 26, 2007 |
| From: | Frank Forster | |
Alex,
i guess it is pretty much the same as the MG 3. The weapon is almost identical with the MG 42 but with 7,62 x 51mm Cartridges (Win 308).
It is has a beltfeed using both, permanent and disassembling belts. In ww 2 they used the permanent belts only. These belts each take up to 50 rounds and can be connected (potentially unlimited) but practically limited up to three belts with 150 rounds. There is even a little autoloader, like a Fleischwolf (do not know the english word) were the cartridges are poured into a funnel and when the crank is turned, the belt gets mechanically loaded.
The belts are limited to 150 rounds, because after 150 rounds of constantly firing small bursts, the barrel gets extremely hot and has to be changed, what only takes about 10 seconds to get the gun firing again. If the barrel is not changed it gets so hot (even glowing) and warps.....and it will be ruined.
One interisting note....i have seen an excellent Figure in a model gallery, last year or so, of a machinegunner firing a machine gun standing. Well, it is possible, but it is not an easy thing. The saw is very heavy, and firing with 1200 rounds per minute....quite some torque...
But what was totally wrong was this: the belt went into the MG from the left (correct so far) and the spent cartriges flew out on the right (totally wrong).
The spent cartridges are ejected on the underside, just in front of the trigger. On the right side, the empty belt comes out of the weapon. So far for all of you who want to build a firing machine gunner.
my best
Frank |
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