The MG08

[MG1918]

In Europe and Canada there are several fine collections of WWI German MG (with the USA maintaining their live MG shoot capability) so in some respects WWI German MG's are not rare. However towards the end of WWI and after, Canada wins the 'who could take home the most' war trophies As a student of the German MG I would like to offer/discuss 3 key areas. This one the MG08. Another thread on the MG08/15 and the third on capture, trg, trophy and accessory.
So to kick off some images of the MG08 with its armour 'package'. The standard armour package being 4 pieces: front armour plate, water jacket armour, one of numerous patterns of larger shield and the inner shield for the sled.
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Mark

Information

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[MG1918]

Good side view of the main water jacket armour. It is fitted to the main body by 2 nuts/bolts to the underside and is very heavy. Incidentally I am looking for one to purchase but as with most things nowadays there are reproductions. Again only used in static positions whereas the front armoured shield was very common.
Mark[COLOR="black"]

[MG1918]

Another side view of the main water jacket armour.

[MG1918]

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Good view of the front armoured plate that fits over the foresight to protect the front face of the water jacket.

[bearrowland]

Almost like small field pieces in those days. Thanks for the post....awesome pics!

[MG1918]

View of the muzzle assembly but side view of armour plate.
Image below is the inner shield to protect the actual machine gunner from frontal small arms fire.

[MG1918]

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[MG1918]

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Some images of the MG08 without its schlitten.


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''Fritz always found the best job for the 'new arrival'

[MG1918]

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Good views of the main water jacket armour again and the trench mount allowing a bit of portability for the MG08.



---------- Post added at 11:39 PM ---------- Previous post was at 11:33 PM ----------

2 x 08/15s shown in the other thread but this is a great photo of German ''dummy'' MG08's on sleds and carts. This must surely be for aerial deception purposes!

[MG1918]