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Why german soldiers ran holding the rifle in one hand?

Why German Soldiers Ran Holding the Rifle in One Hand?

During World War II, German soldiers were known for their impressive marksmanship and tactical abilities on the battlefield. However, one peculiar aspect of their combat tactics has left many historians and military enthusiasts puzzled: why did German soldiers often run holding their rifle in one hand? This question has sparked debates among military historians and enthusiasts for decades, and in this article, we will explore the reasons behind this phenomenon.

The Origins of One-Handed Rifle Carry

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The practice of holding a rifle in one hand while running originated in the German army during the early 20th century. In the 1920s and 1930s, German soldiers were trained to be highly mobile and agile on the battlefield, emphasizing rapid movement and quick response times. This approach was heavily influenced by the German general Staff’s emphasis on rapid maneuver warfare, as laid out in the famous Tactical Handbook written by General Heinz Guderian.

Benefits of One-Handed Rifle Carry

So, why did German soldiers choose to hold their rifles in one hand while running? The benefits of this technique are numerous:

  • Faster Movement: By holding the rifle in one hand, soldiers could move faster and more efficiently, reducing their overall weight and balance issues. This allowed them to cover greater distances in a shorter amount of time, making them more difficult to hit.
  • Improved Balance: Holding the rifle in one hand freed up the other hand to perform other tasks, such as adjusting equipment, operating the radio, or aiming at targets. This increased overall balance and agility.
  • Enhanced Observation: With the rifle in one hand, soldiers could keep their eyes on the surroundings, spotting potential targets, and observing the enemy’s movements. This was particularly important in urban combat and close-quarters battle, where situational awareness was crucial.
  • Greater Flexibility: One-handed rifle carry allowed soldiers to easily switch between the move-and-shoot and stationary fire positions, making them more adaptable to changing circumstances on the battlefield.

Practical Applications

But how did German soldiers implement this technique in practice?

  • Rifle Modification: German soldiers modified their rifles to accommodate one-handed carry. They attached longer, adjustable stocks and customized their rifles to fit individual hand sizes.
  • Combat Training: Soldiers were trained to develop a smooth, efficient motion when carrying the rifle in one hand. This involved practice and repetition to build muscle memory.
  • Tactical Doctrine: German military doctrine emphasized the importance of decentralized decision-making and adaptability. Soldiers were encouraged to use their initiative and react quickly to changing situations on the battlefield.

Historical Examples

Numerous historical examples illustrate the effectiveness of one-handed rifle carry:

  • The Blitzkrieg: German armor units during the Blitzkrieg campaigns of 1940 used one-handed rifle carry to great effect. This allowed them to move rapidly across the battlefield while maintaining a high level of firepower.
  • The Eastern Front: German infantry units on the Eastern Front used one-handed rifle carry to great success. They could quickly move between foxholes and trenches, surprising Soviet forces with rapid bursts of fire.
  • Urban Combat: German units in urban combat situations used one-handed rifle carry to navigate narrow streets and alleyways, taking advantage of the close-quarters environment.

Conclusion

The German army’s practice of running with rifles in one hand may seem unusual to some, but it was an effective tactic that played a significant role in their success on the battlefield. By emphasizing mobility, balance, and adaptability, German soldiers were able to stay ahead of their opponents and dominate the battlefield. The technique has been studied by military historians and enthusiasts, and its principles continue to influence modern military tactics to this day.

Comparison with Other Armies

Here is a comparison between the German army’s one-handed rifle carry and similar practices in other armies:

ArmyOne-Handed Rifle Carry PracticeReasoning
German ArmyWidespread use in all branchesEmphasis on mobility, balance, and adaptability
US ArmyLimited use in select unitsFocus on three-gun tactics and emphasis on rifle accuracy
British ArmyLimited use in special forcesEmphasis on stealth and reconnaissance

Table: Comparison of One-Handed Rifle Carry Practices

As shown in the table, while other armies have experimented with one-handed rifle carry, the German army’s widespread adoption and emphasis on this tactic set them apart from other militaries.

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