German Armored Forces & Vehicles

Jadgpanzer IV.

Jagdpanzer IV, an "earlier" model mounting the PAK 39 L/48 antitiank gun. This version had substantial hitting power, although it did not equal that of later models mounting the PAK 42 L/70 gun. It was, however, somewhat better balanced and manoeuverable. The muzzle brake could be a problem with these early models; because it was relatively low to the ground, it caused air currents that threw up dust and debris, making the location of the vehicle more obvious. As a result, muzzle brakes were often removed in the field, and did not feature in later production. Best regards, JR.