Person Discovers Rare German MG-42 Machine Gun In Their Great Grandfather’s Loft

One Reddit user got the surprise of a lifetime when they found an MG-42 machine gun while clearing out their great-grandfather’s loft. This iconic German weapon, once feared on battlefields, could be worth a small fortune today.

A Reddit user recently made an astonishing discovery while sorting through their great-grandfather’s loft—an MG-42, a World War II-era German machine gun. The MG-42, sometimes called “Hitler’s Buzzsaw” because of its incredibly high rate of fire, was one of the most feared weapons of the war.

The original post on Reddit quickly gained attention, with users recognizing the gun and sharing information about its history, capabilities, and value. One user commented, “MG-42, an MG that can fire 1200 rpm I think.”

The MG-42 was designed for rapid and efficient mass production, making it a revolutionary firearm at the time. With a staggering fire rate of up to 1,200 rounds per minute, it outpaced many of its counterparts. The weapon was widely used by German forces during World War II and influenced modern machine gun designs, including elements of the American M-60.

Even today, the MG-42 remains a legendary firearm due to its cutting-edge engineering, its impact on battlefield tactics, and its influence on post-war military development.

Beyond its historical significance, the MG-42 is also an extremely valuable collector’s item. One Reddit user pointed out just how much these weapons can be worth: “Yeah… Someone linked an auction to a more complete one that was estimated to sell for $40,000 – $60,000 … You should probably try to find the rest but even that main part there is crazy valuable. Definitely don’t take it to the police.”

According to auction listings, original MG-42s in working condition can fetch anywhere from $40,000 to $60,000, especially when they include accessories like barrels, mounts, and ammunition belts.

The MG-42 was originally produced by several German manufacturers during the war, including Mauser, Maget of Berlin, Gustloff-Werkes, and Steyr. The specific MG-42 found in the loft appears to have been made by Gustloff-Werkes-Suhl, as indicated by the receiver markings.

Collectors value these details because they offer insight into the history of each firearm. Many MG-42s are marked with the manufacturer’s wartime code, Waffenamt (military acceptance) stamps, and date markings. The presence of matching parts can significantly increase the value of the gun.

Aside from its impressive fire rate, the MG-42 introduced several advanced design features, including:

Stamped Steel Construction: Unlike the earlier MG-34, the MG-42 was designed for mass production using stamped steel rather than extensive machining, making it quicker and cheaper to produce.
Quick-Change Barrel System: The MG-42’s high rate of fire meant barrels could overheat rapidly. Its innovative quick-change barrel system allowed soldiers to swap out a hot barrel in seconds without tools.
Delayed Roller Locking Mechanism: This system helped maintain smooth operation even at high speeds, making the MG-42 remarkably reliable.
Versatile Mounting Options: The MG-42 could be fired from a bipod for mobile use or mounted on a tripod for sustained fire, making it a versatile weapon for German forces.

Given its rarity and value, the Reddit user’s find is an extraordinary piece of military history. If restored and complete, an MG-42 with accessories—such as additional barrels, drum magazines, and tripods—could be one of the most valuable WWII machine guns in the hands of a collector.

For those who find historical weapons like this, it’s crucial to research local laws before making any decisions. Some countries have strict regulations on possessing deactivated or historical firearms, while others allow collectors to own them under certain conditions.

Finding an MG-42 in a family attic isn’t something you expect during a routine cleaning. This discovery sheds light on the importance of preserving historical artifacts and recognizing the hidden treasures that could be in plain sight.

Whether or not the Reddit user decides to keep or sell the machine gun, one thing is certain: they’ve uncovered a fascinating piece of history that connects them to a pivotal moment in military innovation.

Related Posts

Angel Reese OFFICIALLY decides: “No Respect in the this, I’m Taking My Talent Abroad because I Deserve More Respect!”

Drunk NFL fans push girl with ‘I beat cancer’ sign down stairs

6 Traits You Inherit Exclusively from Your Father

About bunhak168