The MG08 - Inter war version

[Bill Hollinger]

Looks like quite a load there! What is the rate of fire on one of these?

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[MG1918]

Looks like quite a load there! What is the rate of fire on one of these?

The rate of fire is limited like most weapons by the 'feeding' so for these they used 250 rounds per belt. The rate was therefore considered as 500 rds per minute. There are no reports or evidence that the Germans stitched 250 rd belts together in order to make a one single longer belt. Of course as these are water cooled and barrel wear then for extended periods they could cope with prolonged firing.
Mark

---------- Post added at 11:34 PM ---------- Previous post was at 11:30 PM ----------

Thank You MG1918 for sharing those awesome pic's!

So on the carry position pic I have to ask,
How much weight is that guy hauling?
Thanks
Semper Fi
Phil

The inter-war adapted gun and sled had additional add-ons so was heavier than the WWI versions. Anyway the individual if carrying the sled and gun, no drum either is looking at 'manually transporting' around 64 kg! This weight was supported as in that image by 2 small shoulder pads and a wooden block for the back. Even under normal conditions this is not comfortable.....
Mark