Axis Base
Wehrmacht Anti-tank gun
Description
Design on the world's first anti-tank rifle began in November 27, 1917. The firm Mauser was charged with the task of creating this weapon, and the 1930s saw the arrival of the anti-tank
rifle. Its specifications were strict: it was to be operated by a single
soldier; its weight should not exceed 15
kg; and it must penetrate a 30mm armor
plate after traveling 100 meters.
Based on the experiences of the First World
War, this new rifle was designed
alongside a new cartridge. The result was the development
and mass production of the
PzB.39. Alongside
this weapon, the German army
also equipped the Czechoslovakian
MSS-41 anti-tank gun. Two
men were required for the standard operation of these weapons:
one would aim, the other would load. Bicycles were used
to transport these guns: they were strapped to the frame with belts. These guns never became
popular among the soldiers of the Wehrmacht army.