The Maschinengewehr 34, commonly known as the MG 34, is a German general-purpose machine gun developed in the 1930s. It was designed to provide infantry units with a reliable and effective automatic weapon. The MG 34 is notable for its versatility, capable of being used in various roles, including as a light machine gun and mounted on vehicles or aircraft. Weighing around 12.5 kg, the MG 34 fires 7.92×57mm Mauser cartridges at a rate of approximately 800 rounds per minute. Its design features a quick-change barrel, allowing for sustained fire without overheating. The MG 34 was widely used during World War II by the Wehrmacht and remains an iconic example of military firearms technology.