Heckler & Koch G11
The Heckler & Koch G11 is a non-production prototype assault rifle developed from the late 1960s–1980s by Gesellschaft für Hülsenlose Gewehrsysteme (GSHG) (German for "Association for Caseless Rifle Systems"), a conglomeration of companies headed by firearm manufacturer Heckler & Koch (mechanical engineering and weapon design), Dynamit Nobel (propellant composition and projectile design), and Hensoldt Wetzlar (target identification and optic systems). The rifle is noted for its use of caseless ammunition.
| Heckler & Koch G11 | |
|---|---|
A G11 K2 (final version). | |
| Type | Assault rifle |
| Place of origin | West Germany |
| Production history | |
| Designer | Heckler & Koch |
| Designed | 1968–1990 |
| Variants |
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| Specifications | |
| Mass |
|
| Length | 750 mm (30 in) |
| Barrel length | 540 mm (21 in) (Not including chamber, 155 mm per twist) |
| Cartridge |
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| Action | Gas-operated, rotary breech (for G11 series) |
| Rate of fire |
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| Muzzle velocity | C. 930 m/s (3,100 ft/s) |
| Effective firing range | 400 m |
| Feed system | 45- or 50-round detachable box magazine |
| Sights | Integrated optical sight |
It was primarily a project of West Germany, though it was of significance to the other NATO countries as well. In particular, versions of the G11 were included in the U.S. Advanced Combat Rifle program.
In 1990, H&K finished the development of the G11, intended for the Bundeswehr and other NATO partners. Although the weapon was a technical success, it never entered full production due to the political changes of German reunification and lack of procurement contract. Only 1000 units were ever produced, some of which made their way into the hands of the Bundeswehr. Ultimately, the German armed forces replaced the G3 with the G36.