Heckler & Koch HK43

The Heckler and Koch HK43 is a semi-automatic rifle based upon the Heckler & Koch HK33 rifle and is the predecessor of the Heckler & Koch HK93 semi-automatic rifle.

Heckler & Koch HK43
HK43A2
TypeSemi-automatic rifle
Place of originWest Germany
Production history
ManufacturerHeckler & Koch
ProducedMarch 1974 - 1989
VariantsKA1, A2 and A3
Specifications
Mass8.4 pounds (3.8 kg) (empty magazine)
Length36.2 inches (920 mm)
Barrel length16.975 inches (431.165 mm)
Cartridge5.56×45mm NATO, .223 Remington
ActionRoller-delayed blowback
Rate of fireSemi-automatic
Feed system5, 20, 25, 30 or 40-round double column, detachable box magazine
SightsProtected post front, rotating diopter rear sight

Overview

In the mid to late 1960s, Heckler & Koch developed the HK33, which was a scaled-down version of the Heckler & Koch G3, but chambered for 5.56×45mm NATO. The HK33 entered production in 1968. In 1974, a semi-automatic version of the HK33 was introduced by H&K and was designated the HK43. According to H&K’s numbering nomenclature, the “4” indicates that the weapon is a paramilitary rifle, and the “3” indicates that the caliber is 5.56 mm.

HK43 can sell for anywhere between $5,500 and $9,000 depending on the condition and the economy at the time.

A HK43 version KA1 with a shorter 322 mm barrel was used in 1977 by the German RAF terrorist group to assassinate general attorney Siegfried Buback and two policemen.[1][2] Verena Becker, a former RAF member, claimed Stefan Wisniewski was the killer.[2]

References
  1. "Der Mord an Generalbundesanwalt Siegfried Buback".
  2. "Who Assassinated Siegfried Buback? Germany Revisits RAF Terrorism Verdict". Spiegel Online. 23 April 2007. Retrieved 22 September 2019.
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