The MG 42 was a simplified design which superceded the MG 34 (See FTA 284) in German service. The weapon had a similar feed mechanism but the manufacuring process used more stamped parts, less steel, and was cheaper. Thre resulting weapon was more rugged, reliable, and had a higher rate of fire. The two 3-letter manufacturing codes refer to Rheinmetall -Maget.
Marks and Stamps: (Breech cover) 3028 6052 (deleted) (L side rear of receiver) 1943 MG42 3028 c cra (Stock) 3028 (bolt handle) 3292 bpr| Accession Number: 276 | Period of Use: 1942 - present |
| Type: Machine gun | War Zones: Second World War; |
| Country of Origin: Germany | Type Date: 1942 |
| Manufacturer: Rheinmetall-Maget | Serial Number: 3028 |
| Manufacture Date: 1943 | Calibre/Ammunition: 7.92mm |
| Weight: 11500g | Length Overall: 1219mm |
| Cyclic Rate: 1200rpm | Length Barrel: 533mm |
| Deactivation Certificate Number: CG 22548 |