The RPD Machine Gun in WW2: Myths and Facts

The RPD (Ruchnoy Pulemyot Degtyaryova) machine gun, known in its earlier version as the Degtyarev PD 1928, played a significant role in various conflicts, but particularly in the Later Phases of World War II. This article aims to provide clarity on the use of the RPD during WW2, addressing common misconceptions.

Introduction to RPD and Its Early Version

The RPD, introduced in 1944, was a modified version of the earlier Degtyarev PD 1928. The PD 1928 was designed as a light, portable machine gun, but it was most widely used in its earlier drum magazine configuration. The transition to a lighter and more portable weapon, which became the RPD, occurred in 1944. This modification made the RPD highly effective for use on the battlefield, particularly in the hands of infantry units.

Myth Busting: RPD Usage in WW2

A common misconception is that the RPD was extensively used during WW2. While it is true that the RPD went through modifications and improvements that made it a lighter and more portable weapon by 1944, its full capabilities were not harnessed on a large scale during the actual conflict. The PD 1928 and its earlier iterations were more extensively used in WW2, with a drum magazine configuration that provided a significant advantage in the initial stages of the war.

Postwar Developments and Cartridge Compatibility

Another misconception is that the RPD was developed post-World War II using the AK47 cartridge. The RPD was not a postwar development but rather a modification of the earlier machine guns designed by Degtyarev. The RPD used a unique cartridge, and it was not until later that it was designed to use the AK47 cartridge. The AK47 was developed much later and was part of a larger series of developmental efforts by the Soviet Union to standardize their firearm systems.

Understanding the RPG and Its Ancestors

It is important to distinguish the RPD machine gun from the RPG (Rocket-Propelled Grenade launcher). The RPG is a distinct weapon type with a long history in military and guerrilla warfare. To clarify the connection, the RPG is the descendant of earlier antitank weapons such as the American Bazooka, the German Panzerschreck, and the British PIAT. Bazooka: An American portable antitank weapon that used a rocket to propell shaped charge warheads. Panzerschreck: A German singe-shot antitank weapon that used a shaped charge warhead propelled by a black powder charge. PIAT: A British recoilless anti-tank weapon that used a spring mechanism to propel the warhead. RPG: The Soviet-developed RPG (Rokket-PerTYuchenny exploding warheads) is a more advanced rocket-propelled grenade launcher that combines the best features of its predecessors. It is muzzle-loaded and uses a smaller launching charge before igniting the rocket motor, propelling a shaped charge warhead.

The RPG family, which appeared after the war, built upon the designs of these earlier antitank rockets, incorporating features like a muzzle-loading mechanism and an improved launching mechanism for better reliability and efficiency.

Conclusion

The RPD machine gun played a significant role in the latter stages of World War II, though it was not as extensively used as some may believe. Its postwar developments have led to the creation of various advancements in infantry support weapons, notably the RGP family. Understanding the RPD in context helps in grasping the evolution of infantry support weapons over the years, particularly in the Soviet military.