Lahti L-39

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	Weapon: Lahti L-39 Type: Anti-Tank Weapon Country of Origin: Finland Year Adopted: 1939 Caliber: 20x138mmB Action: Gas-Operated Semi-Automatic Overall Length (mm): 1100.0 Weight (kg): 4.00 Effective Range (m): 1000

The Lahti L-39, nicknamed the "Elephant Gun," is a Finnish anti-tank rifle designed by Aimo Lahti in the late 1930s. Chambered for the powerful 20x138mmB cartridge, it features a semi-automatic mechanism, a robust construction, and a distinctive muzzle brake to reduce recoil. The rifle measures over two meters long and weighs approximately 50 kg, making it a cumbersome but highly effective weapon against early World War II-era tanks and armored vehicles.

Production of the Lahti L-39 began in 1939, with around 1,900 units manufactured during its service life. It was primarily used by Finnish forces during the Winter War and Continuation War against the Soviet Union. Although initially effective against lightly armored vehicles, its utility diminished as tank armor improved during the war. Despite its size and weight, the L-39 was appreciated for its reliability and accuracy, often serving in secondary roles, such as targeting fortified positions and low-flying aircraft.

The Lahti L-39 gained notoriety for its enormous size and firepower, becoming one of the most iconic anti-tank rifles of its era. While its effectiveness against tanks waned, its role as a multipurpose heavy weapon ensured its continued use during World War II. Today, the L-39 is a prized collectible among firearm enthusiasts and is displayed in military museums, symbolizing Finland's ingenuity and resilience during its wartime struggles.