Machine-gunners

The backbone of the German Army was infantry, and their heavy infantry was often called upon for additional firepower and support. Machine-gun companies not only equipped machine guns, but also carried heavy machine guns and mortars. Such a German machine-gun company was a fearsome sight to behold. 

The principle machine gun of the Wehrmacht was the MG-34, designed by Louis Stange and the engineers at Rheinmetall in 1934. It participated in all the battles of World War II, and was used to engage targets at long and medium range. With proper optical sights, an MG-34 could effectively engage targets at a distance of 2.5 km. In time, the MG-42 eliminated the few drawbacks of its predecessor, including its intolerance of dirt. Nearly half a million of these guns were produced.