German Infantry Weapons of the Second World War

The War Machines

This fascinating in-depth dossier is based on classified wartime reports issued by the US Military Intelligence Services, and examines the main weapon types – pistols, rifles, grenades, machine guns and mortars as well as anti-tank guns and infantry howitzers. The equipment of the German Army in 1939 reflected the High Command’s policy of having the smallest variety of weapon types consistent with meeting operational requirements. Initially the emphasis was on developing only selected types for mass production. As the battle fronts widened and the theatres of operations became more varied, they were forced to increase the variety of their weapons. Detailed descriptions and specifications are accompanied by diagrams and photographs to provide an invaluable resource on Germany’s infantry weapons.