This is a rare example of an original WWII German Raketenpanzerbuchse (Rocket Armor Rifle) RPzB Model 54 or typically called a Panzerschreck (Tank Terror). These were introduced in 1941, as the Model 41, a similar weapon to the U.S. Army M1 "Bazooka" launcher. The Model 54 variant shown here introduced the distinctive steel blast shield, which eliminated the need for the operator to wear any protective clothing or gas mask. However, it still retained the original overall length of 1610mm/63 inches. These fired an excellent 88mm high explosive shape charge that could penetrate approximately 210 mm of armour steel plate (approximately 8 1/4 inches). This weapon could easily destroy a Sherman or Russian T34 which typically had only approximately 3 -3.5 inches of armour plate at the thickest areas! It had an effective ranges of approximately 150 meters under ideal conditions. This particular example is finished in a repainted olive drab green paint that is chipping on all the various sides. The overall length is approximately 1610mm (63 inches) with wood and steel grip section with a 15.5 X 12.5 inch wide blast shield marked with a 3 inch square glass viewing window. It still retains its piezoelectric ignition system and wire guide around the rear breech end of the tube.

Fine condition with 85% plus of the period repainted exterior finish with the cocking and firing mechanism still complete. A rare example, that was originally registered in a military museum. NOTE: This Destructive Device is a National Firearms Act (NFA), fully transferable Class 3, which is registered with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, (BATFE) under the provisions of 18 U.S.C. Chapter 44 and 27 CFR part 478.