Caliber 7.92mm
Cartridge: 7.9mm x 57mm Mauser
Length: 37 in (940 - n)
Weight : 10 lbs. (4.5 kg)
Muzzle Velocity: 2500 ft. (762m) per second
Effective Range: 660 yds. (550m)
Rate Of Fire: 750 rounds/min. (cyclic)
Magazine: 20 round box

Because German Fallschirmjagers (Paratroopers) often lacked supporting weapons during operations, the FG-42 was developed to give each individual paratrooper more firepower. A cross between a light machine gun and an assault rifle, the gas-operated FG-42 could be fired ingeniously single- shot with a closed rifle bolt or full automatic with an open bolt.

The FG 42 also featured a bipod, an attachable bayonet, and a 20 round box clip that was fitted above the trigger on the left side of the weapon. The side location for the clip however was found to snag on equipment and to unbalance the gun when it was fired.

Overall, the FG42 was a brilliant design whose development would lead to the creation of the MP-44 and assault rifles as they are known today. Because of the complex nature of the FG 42, manufacturing the weapon was difficult. Only 7,000 FG 42s were produced before war's end.

SPECIAL RULES

The FG 42 incorporates many aspects that were later incorporated into assault rifles such as the MP44 and more modern examples. The FG 42 also has some characteristics of a pre-machine guns because the weapon was initially envisioned as a squad support weapon.

To Hit Penalty One problem with the FG 42 was its unbalanced design. The box magazine on the left side made the weapon difficult to fire accurately. There is a +1 To Hit penalty when firing the FG 42.

Bipod If using the FG 42 while prone then the bipod can be used. There is no To Hit penalty if using the bipod, or if the weapon is rested against a wall, window sill or similar structure.

Spraying Fire The FG 42 can use Spraying Fire just line a PreMachine Gun, out to a range of 24 inches. This is because of the inclusion of a bipod and the placement of the magazine. Spraying fire at 24" range may only be used if the firer is prone or set against a window sill, wall, or similar structure. In addition, the gunner must have an assistant to change magazines. This assistant can be any Fallshcirmjager, so long as he is beside and to the left of the firer.

Other Spraying Fire The FG 42 can also engage in Spraying fire out to 12" range just line any other Assault Rifle. There is no need to have an assistant or use the bipod.

Maschinegerwehr 42 Machine Gun