ForgottenWeapons
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HK43: The 5.56mm "Paramilitary" Rifle (Ad-free)
🕑 Added 2024-03-08 12:00:01 +0000 UTCBefore the H&K 90 series of rifles - the civilian semiautomatic versions - existed, there was the 40-series; the paramilitary rifles. Originally intended for German reservist purchase, the HK41 and HK43 were G3 and HK33 rifles made in semiautomatic only configuration. In the early 1970s, these were fairly easy for a German member of the armed forces to purchase, and keep at home for training or recreational shooting. They were also imported in small umbers into the US, with additional changes made to the receiver and bolt carrier to meet ATF standards for not being easily convertible into machine guns. By the mid 1970s, however, German laws changed, and the process to purchase on of these rifle in Germany became onerous enough that H&K dropped them from production. In their place came the HK 91 and 93 (as well as 94), more specifically designed to meet American import regulations - but identical to the 40 series in practical terms.
Thanks to Select Fire Weaponry of Waukesha, Wisconsin for loaning me this rare rifle to film!
Comments
Peter Biller
No, of the one I just learned afew weeks back, The other one has 3 HK41 and 1 HK43, at least since over 4 years, but don't know where from.
Guido Schriewer
debatable hk should have sold the 33 to the bundeswehr circa 1980.. going for a standard nato caliber. though I love the 762.
Guido Schriewer
there are a handful pics of seals in se asia having them. or so says the text for the picture. never heard other units had them? much more recoiling than an ar pattern? but compared to a famas that isn't gas operated?
Guido Schriewer
niedermeyer sold by chance?
Peter Biller
I know of exactly two HK41 in private ownership in Germany. Before I saw the first one personaly, I didn't even think that any exist, becuase that whole rilfe came out so close to the inauguration of the damned old §37 of the weapons laww which forbade all items, that look like a weapon of war.
Mark Farris
Glad I got a 93 clone that takes STANAG when I did. That's now a rare bird unfortunately.
