The Panzerschreck system was based on research garnered from studying the American M1 Bazooka and proved equally effective. By Staff Writer
The Raketenpanzerbuchse (or commonly known as the Panzerschreck meaning "tank terror" because of the destructive results it produced or may also be known as Ofenrohr meaning "oven chimney" because of it's shape) was an anti-tank system utilized by the German Army during World War 2. The system was designed from research garnered form American M1 Bazooka specimens captured from fighting in North Africa. The RPzB system went on to find considerable success in knocking out enemy armor and was a highly feared weapon of the Third Reich.
The Raketenpanzerbuchse appeared in an initial form as the RPzB 43, firing an 8.8cm rocket projectile (larger than the American Bazooka rocket). The system was of a most primitive design featuring opened ends and requiring the firer to wear protective measures. The RPzB 43 was followed by a more refined production model in the RPzB 54 in which a blast shield was finally added. With increased range, a refined projectile and a shortened overall length, the RPzB 54/I appeared as the final form of the Panzerschreck.
Panzerschreck systems operated through the length of the war since appearing around 1943. The system, like it's Allied counterparts, was typically operated with a firer, both of which accompanied tank crews for protection. The ferocity and effectiveness of the system forced Allied tank crews to come up with rudimentary ways of fending off the high-level effects of the projectile.
We can only get better if you tell us how. You can contact MilitaryFactory.com at MilitaryFactory at gmail dot com (replace "at" with "@" and "dot with ".") with any questions, comments or corrections. We also accept related military imagery that you approve for us to use on our website. Keep in mind, however, that due to volume, we may not directly respond to your inquiry. Please add us to your list of non-blocked recipients!
Profile:
Image Courtesy of the German National Archives
1943
Designation:Panzerschreck (Raketenpanzerbuchse) Classification Type:Resuable, Man-Portable Anti-Tank Rocket Launcher Manufacturer:Various - Germany Country of Origin: Nazi Germany
Operators: Nazi Germany; Finland
Variants
RPzB 43 - Initial Production Variant based on research of the M1 Bazooka; firer required special clothing for protection.
RPzB 54 - Blast Shield Implemented
RPzB 54/1 - Shortened Firing Tube; increased range; refined projectile warhead.
Material presented throughout this website is for historical and entertainment value and should not to be construed as usable for
hardware restoration, maintenance or general operation. Please consult manufacturers for such information.
Site Contact: militaryfactory at gmail dot com(replace "at" with "@" and "dot" with ".")
Operation:
