The MG08 - Inter war version

[MG1918]

Although my area of interest is WWI both the MG08 and MG08/15 were modified for Reichswehr inter-war period usage. Members might find this thread useful as although the German Armed Forces introduced some vey capable MGs leading up to and during WWII, these modified old WWI guns were still in service.

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[MG1918]

[MG1918]

Although the aa set up for the inter war MG08 looks impressive it was from reports not very practical. Either the 100 rd trommel was fitted whilst the gunner did his bit, but of cse 100 rds do not last long, or the 250 rd belt was used with the feeder having to feed and move at the same time as the 'rotating' gun/gunner! The modifications to the standard WWI gun are:
1. Different steam tube attachment.
2. Anti Aircraft stem and sights fitted to the water jacket and top cover.
3. Trommel attachments fitted.
4. Different rear squeeze trigger assembly and butt stock attachment.
5. Adapted feedblock for cloth and metal belts.
6. Several modifications to the sled along with AA Pole/bracket.

There were also modifications the inter-war MG08/15.

Has anybody seen an inter-war example of either in Canada?
Mark

[MG1918]

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[MG1918]

Post WWI ex-Imperial German Army MG08 and sled taken into Belgian Army service. A few countries placed into service thousands of WWI captured weapons and adapted accordingly.


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In use 1940!


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Although there are images of its use by the German Army in invading Poland etc, it was very much a second/third line weapon by then, and became either static defence in occupied cities or adapted for fortification/coastal defence.

[MG1918]

[MG1918]

[MG1918]

[MG1918]

Not quite inter-war adapted but a post 1919 Freikorps image.

[MG1918]