A Reddit user experienced the shock of a lifetime after discovering an MG-42 machine gun while cleaning out their great-grandfather’s attic. This legendary German firearm, once a dominant force in warfare, could now be incredibly valuable.
A Reddit user recently stumbled upon an incredible find while clearing out their great-grandfather’s attic—an MG-42, a German machine gun from World War II. Nicknamed “Hitler’s Buzzsaw” due to its blistering rate of fire, this weapon was among the war’s most feared.
The Reddit post quickly went viral, with users identifying the firearm and discussing its history, power, and potential worth. One commenter noted, “MG-42, a machine gun that fires at 1,200 rounds per minute, if I’m not mistaken.”
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The MG-42 was crafted for swift and cost-effective mass production, making it a groundbreaking weapon of its era. Boasting an astonishing fire rate of up to 1,200 rounds per minute, it surpassed most of its contemporaries. This machine gun saw extensive use by German troops in World War II and shaped the development of modern firearms, including features found in the American M-60.
Even in the present day, the MG-42 is regarded as an iconic weapon due to its innovative design, its effect on combat strategies, and its lasting impact on military advancements after the war.
Beyond its historical importance, the MG-42 is a highly valuable collector’s item. One Reddit user highlighted its worth, saying, “Yeah… Someone shared an auction for a more complete one estimated at $40,000 – $60,000… You should try to locate the rest, but even that main part is insanely valuable. Definitely don’t take it to the police.”
Auction listings confirm that original, functional MG-42s can sell for anywhere between $40,000 and $60,000, particularly when accompanied by accessories such as barrels, mounts, and ammunition belts.
During the war, multiple German companies manufactured the MG-42, including Mauser, Maget of Berlin, Gustloff-Werkes, and Steyr. The specific MG-42 discovered in the loft appears to be a Gustloff-Werkes-Suhl production, as identified by the markings on its receiver.
Enthusiasts appreciate these markings because they reveal each weapon’s historical background. Many MG-42s feature wartime production codes, Waffenamt (military inspection) stamps, and date engravings. Having all original, matching components can greatly enhance the firearm’s overall value.
Beyond its blistering rate of fire, the MG-42 introduced several groundbreaking design features, including:
- Stamped Steel Construction: Unlike its predecessor, the MG-34, which required extensive machining, the MG-42 was built using stamped steel, significantly reducing production time and costs.
- Quick-Change Barrel System: Due to its rapid-fire capability, barrels overheated quickly. The MG-42’s innovative system allowed soldiers to replace a hot barrel within seconds—no tools required.
- Delayed Roller Locking Mechanism: This advanced system ensured smooth and reliable operation even at extreme firing speeds, enhancing durability in combat.
- Versatile Mounting Options: Designed for adaptability, the MG-42 could be used with a bipod for mobile firing or mounted on a tripod for sustained fire, giving German forces flexibility on the battlefield.
Due to its scarcity and significance, the Reddit user’s discovery is a remarkable artifact of military history. When fully restored and accompanied by accessories—like spare barrels, drum magazines, and tripods—an MG-42 could rank among the most prized WWII machine guns for collectors.
Anyone uncovering historical firearms like this should first investigate local laws before taking any action. Some nations enforce strict rules on owning deactivated or antique weapons, while others permit collectors to possess them under specific legal conditions.
Stumbling upon an MG-42 in a family attic is hardly something you’d expect during a routine cleanup. This remarkable find highlights the importance of preserving historical artifacts and reminds us that incredible treasures can sometimes be hiding in plain sight.
Whether the Reddit user chooses to keep or sell the machine gun, one thing is certain—they’ve uncovered a significant piece of history that offers a direct link to a pivotal era of military innovation.