The MG 34, or Maschinengewehr 34, is a German general-purpose machine gun developed in the 1930s. It was designed for versatility, capable of being used in various roles, including as a light machine gun and mounted on vehicles. The MG 34 was known for its high rate of fire and reliability, making it a significant asset for the Wehrmacht during World War II. Weighing around 12.5 kg (27.5 lbs), the MG 34 used 7.92×57mm Mauser ammunition and could be fed from belts or magazines. Its design allowed for quick barrel changes, which was essential during prolonged firefights. The MG 34 influenced the development of later machine guns, including the MG 42.