#BangSystem

The German G41(W) was Germany’s first self-loading rifle issued in any significant quantity during WWII, but it’s many flaws led it to not be appreciated or coveted by the soldiers who were issued them. Using an unusual operating method, the guns were subject to excessive fouling and other troubles.
That said, the rifles are mechanically fascinating, and in this video we take a look at what makes them work.

The Walther Gewehr 41 is a mechanically interesting rifle that was adopted by the German military during WWII. Over 100,000 were made, and it uses an interesting operating method known as the “bang” system that traps gas after the muzzle and uses it to self load. This system is known for being unreliable and sensitive to fouling (especially with corrosive ammo) but how does it shoot?