The history of Soviet anti-tank rifle development and production is an interesting tale filled with what might have been. In the early years of the war though, the 14.5mm anti-tank rifles could punch through German armor and played an important role in turning the tide of the war. The enemy tank crew would rain high explosive shells and machine gun fire down onto their position as its supporting infantry maneuvered to get within grenade range. As soon as they opened fire the 14.5mm’s huge muzzle blast and blinding muzzle flash would immediately expose their position to enemy return fire. Each shot had to count and was fired at a specific weak point such as a vision slit, fuel cell or suspension component. He had to ignore the jolting recoil, terrific report and immense muzzle blast and concentrate on his target which was moving and firing as it came. Then when the time was right the gunner would squeeze off a carefully aimed shot. With nerves of steel they’d watch the panzer, and accompanying infantry advance right up to their position. So the Soviet anti-tank rifle team would have to wait and hold their fire until the enemy was perhaps 200 meters away. If they opened fire at too great of a distance, their high velocity 14.5mm AP ammunition would fail to penetrate the tank’s thick armor. A pair of Soviet soldiers armed only with a large caliber rifle versus a German tank. DecemBy Mikhail Dragunov, Senior Field Editor Book of the AK47
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