The Hellriegel M1915 was a unique prototype submachine gun created by the Austro-Hungarian Empire during World War I. Although not much is known about this weapon, it was designed in 1915 and had some interesting features that made it stand out.
The Hellriegel M1915 could use two types of magazines: a large 160-round drum magazine and a smaller 20-round stick magazine. This gave soldiers options depending on their needs in battle. One of the most fascinating aspects of this weapon was its cooling system. It used a water-cooled mechanism, which was wrapped in leather, to prevent the gun from overheating during intense firing.
This submachine gun was intended for the Standschütze, the Austrian Home Guard. It was designed to provide strong defensive fire from a fixed position, but it was also light enough to be used while moving forward in battle. The gun operated using a method called direct blowback, which allowed it to fire between 550 to 650 rounds per minute.
Images from testing show a soldier wearing a thick belt, possibly to help control the gun while moving. An ammunition bearer would often accompany the shooter, carrying extra ammo in a wooden box on their back. However, the drum magazine might have had some reliability issues, making it better suited for stationary firing. On the other hand, the stick magazine was more practical for firing while on the move.
Despite its innovative design, the development of the Hellriegel M1915 stopped after 1915. No further information about the weapon has been discovered since then, leaving it as a mysterious piece of military history.
If you’re interested in learning more about World War I and other historical topics, check out our other videos. You can also find “Simple History: World War 1” on Amazon for more detailed insights. Thank you for supporting the Simple History YouTube channel. If you like our content, consider supporting us on Patreon!
Research more about the Austro-Hungarian Empire’s role in World War I and the development of military technology during that time. Create a short presentation to share with the class, highlighting how the Hellriegel M1915 fits into this historical context.
Imagine you are an engineer in 1915 tasked with improving the Hellriegel M1915. Sketch a design of your own prototype, considering advancements in technology and addressing the challenges faced by the original design. Share your ideas with the class and explain your design choices.
Participate in a class debate on the advantages and disadvantages of the drum magazine versus the stick magazine used in the Hellriegel M1915. Consider factors such as reliability, ease of use, and practicality in different combat scenarios.
Engage in a role-playing activity where you take on the roles of soldiers using the Hellriegel M1915. Discuss strategies for using the weapon effectively in different battle situations, considering its strengths and limitations.
Write a short historical fiction story set during World War I, featuring the Hellriegel M1915. Use your imagination to explore what might have happened if the weapon had been widely used. Share your story with the class and discuss the historical accuracy of your narrative.
**The Hellriegel M1915: A Brief Overview**
The Standschütze Hellriegel M1915 was an Austro-Hungarian prototype submachine gun developed in 1915. Limited information is available about this weapon, but it is known to have fed from either a 160-round drum magazine or a 20-round stick magazine. The weapon was designed with a water-cooled system, utilizing a leather-covered water jacket.
It was intended for use by the Standschütze, the Austrian Home Guard, and was capable of sustained defensive fire in a fixed position while remaining light enough for walking fire during an advance. The weapon is believed to have operated using direct blowback and had a rate of fire estimated between 550 to 650 rounds per minute.
Testing images show a firer wearing a thick belt, which may have aided in managing walking fire. An ammunition bearer would accompany the firer, carrying additional ammunition in a wooden case on their back. However, the drum magazine may have faced reliability issues due to its design, making it more suitable for stationary firing when placed in a cradle, while the stick magazine was intended for walking fire.
Despite its potential, development of the Hellriegel ceased after 1915, and no further information has emerged since then.
For more insights, check out our other videos. You can also get your copy of “Simple History: World War 1,” available on Amazon. Thank you for your support of the Simple History YouTube channel. If you enjoy our content, please consider supporting us on Patreon.
Hellriegel – A prototype submachine gun developed during World War I by an Austrian engineer named Adolf Furrer. – The Hellriegel was an innovative design that featured a water-cooled barrel and a high-capacity magazine.
Submachine – A type of automatic firearm designed to fire pistol cartridges and be used by soldiers in close combat situations. – During World War II, the submachine gun became a crucial weapon for infantry units.
Magazine – A device or chamber for holding a supply of cartridges to be fed automatically to the breech of a gun. – The soldier quickly reloaded his weapon by inserting a fresh magazine.
Design – The process of planning and creating something with a specific function or intention, often involving technical drawings and specifications. – The engineers spent months perfecting the design of the new aircraft to ensure its safety and efficiency.
Features – Distinctive attributes or aspects of something, often contributing to its functionality or appeal. – The new tank model had several advanced features, including reinforced armor and improved mobility.
History – The study of past events, particularly in human affairs, and how they shape the present and future. – Understanding the history of engineering helps students appreciate the evolution of technology over time.
World War – A large-scale war involving many countries across the world, notably World War I and World War II. – World War I saw the introduction of many new technologies, including tanks and chemical weapons.
Soldier – A person who serves in an army and is trained to fight in wars and battles. – The soldier bravely advanced through the battlefield, following orders to secure the area.
Development – The process of growth, progress, or evolution, particularly in technology or society. – The development of the steam engine was a pivotal moment in the Industrial Revolution.
Weapon – An instrument or device designed for inflicting harm or damage, often used in warfare or combat. – The invention of the longbow gave medieval armies a powerful new weapon in their arsenals.
