One of the signature weapons of World War II, the German MG42 machine gun was one of the best infantry weapons of the war, blending portability and intense firepower, while also being more streamlined in production than earlier weapons. Dubbed "Hitler's Buzzsaw", the MG42's high cyclic rate (about 1,200 rounds per minute) gave it a distinct and intimidating sound, very alien to American and Commonwealth troopers trained with and around slower-firing weapons; at that speed, individual gunshots are replaced with a steady, disturbing roar. The 42's life went on after the war, continuing in service with the West German armed forces rechambered for NATO-standard calibers, and being used alongside the MG42 as inspiration for the American M60. Folding blade front and ladder rear sights are installed on the full length barrel shroud, along with a screw-on flash hider, folding bipod, and a quick-release barrel mechanism. A machined trunnion connects the stamped shroud to the stamped receiver, which is marked "NC/MG42/7323k/cra" on the left side, with a set of ribbed pistol grips, two-position safety switch, and a feldgrau-colored painted buttplate.