item details
NameMachine gun MG 08/15
ProductionM.A.N. [Maschinenfabrik Augsburg Nurnberg AG].; manufacturer(s); 1917; Germany
Classificationfirearms, machine guns
Materialswood, steel
DimensionsOverall: 120mm (width), 185mm (height), 1325mm (length)
Registration NumberDM000319
Credit lineGift of Mr C.J. Reed, 1954
Overview
German machine gun, MG08/15, made by M.A.N., 1917, originally 7.92mm calibre. This weapon was captured by New Zealand troops in 1918 and was brought to New Zealand as a 'War Trophy'. In 1942, when a Japanese invasion was feared, it was modified to fire British [.303 calibre] ammunition and used to protect the Government Buildings in Wellington.