G3 Infantry Rifle

The G3 rifle is an infantry rifle that uses 7.62×51 mm NATO ammunition and features both semi-automatic and fully automatic firing modes. Developed in the 1950s by the German company Heckler & Koch based on the CETME design, it entered service in 1959 as the standard infantry rifle of the German Federal Armed Forces (Bundeswehr). The weapon operates using a delayed blowback system with a rotating bolt.

In Türkiye, licensed production of the G3A3 (fixed stock) and G3A4 (folding stock) models began in the late 1960s by the Machine and Chemical Industry Corporation (MKE) and they became the primary infantry weapon of the Turkish Armed Forces (TSK) for many decades. MKE also produced improved variants of this rifle; for example, the G3A7 model is an enhanced version of the G3A3 and can be integrated with the T40 grenade launcher.

G3 Infantry Rifle (MKE)

Technical Specifications

• Ammunition: 7.62×51 mm NATO
• Muzzle velocity: 800 m/s
• Magazine capacity: 20 rounds
• Barrel length: 450 mm
• Total length: G3A3 model 1020 mm, G3A4 model 835–1015 mm
• Weight (empty): G3A3 model 4250 g, G3A4 model 4700 g
• Firing modes: Semi-automatic / fully automatic
• Rate of fire: 500–600 rounds per minute
• Effective range: 400 m
• Number of rifling grooves: 4

Usage in Türkiye and Replacement Weapons

The G3 rifle was widely used for many decades not only by the TSK but also by numerous public security units. However, due to its high recoil, ergonomic limitations, and inadequacy in meeting modern combat requirements, it has gradually been replaced by newer generations of domestically developed infantry rifles. The MPT-76, developed by MKE, uses the same ammunition as the G3 but offers improved ergonomics, accuracy, and durability. The TSK has begun phasing out its G3 inventory in favor of these modern rifles.

The G3 is still in use today among reserve forces and certain training units. Nevertheless, its active role in Türkiye is steadily diminishing as domestic and modern weapon systems come into service.