World War II introduced some of the most iconic firearms in history, many of which still see action today. While the majority of these weapons have been retired from frontline service, some remain in the arsenals of modern military forces, law enforcement, and even armed groups worldwide. Whether it’s their reliability, firepower, or historical significance, these guns refuse to fade into history.
Here’s a look at nine classic WW2 firearms that you can still find in use today.
1. M2 Browning Machine Gun – The “Ma Deuce” That Won’t Quit
If there’s one WW2 firearm that refuses to retire, it’s the M2 Browning .50 caliber machine gun. Originally designed by John Browning in the late 1910s and officially adopted in 1933, this beast of a weapon has served in nearly every American conflict since. It was a staple on tanks, aircraft, and defensive emplacements during WW2, and its raw firepower made it a formidable force against infantry and light vehicles.
Even today, the M2 remains in active service with the U.S. military and several other nations. Its ability to penetrate armor, destroy vehicles, and deliver long-range fire support makes it indispensable. Some M2s in use today are decades old but still function perfectly, proving that some designs truly stand the test of time.
2. MG42 – Hitler’s Buzzsaw Lives On
The MG42, one of the most feared weapons of World War II, set the standard for modern machine guns. With an astonishing rate of fire of up to 1,500 rounds per minute, it earned nicknames like “Hitler’s Buzzsaw” due to its terrifying sound in combat.
While the original MG42 itself isn’t widely used anymore, its direct descendant, the MG3, is still actively used by numerous military forces worldwide. Countries like Germany, Turkey, and Pakistan still rely on this modernized version, proving that the MG42’s design was so ahead of its time that it remains relevant nearly a century later.
3. M1911 – A Timeless Sidearm
The M1911 pistol, another John Browning masterpiece, was the standard U.S. military sidearm from World War I all the way to the 1980s. Chambered in .45 ACP, it gained a legendary reputation for stopping power and reliability.
Even after its official retirement, many elite military units still carry versions of the M1911 today, including U.S. Marine special operations groups. Civilian and law enforcement markets also continue to embrace this design, with countless modern manufacturers producing updated M1911s for self-defense, competition shooting, and collecting.
4. Lee-Enfield – The Bolt-Action Workhorse
Few rifles have had the service life of the Lee-Enfield, a bolt-action rifle chambered in .303 British. First introduced in the late 19th century, it was the primary rifle of British and Commonwealth forces throughout both World Wars. Known for its 10-round magazine and rapid bolt-action cycling, it allowed soldiers to fire much faster than other bolt-action rifles of the era.
Even today, Lee-Enfields are still in limited use, particularly in parts of South Asia, Africa, and even Afghanistan, where insurgents sometimes prefer them over AK-47s due to their superior range and accuracy. Police forces in India and Bangladesh also continue to use them for security roles.
5. M3 “Grease Gun” – A Budget Submachine Gun That Stuck Around
The M3 Grease Gun was designed as a cheaper alternative to the Thompson submachine gun, costing nearly half as much to produce. Despite its crude, boxy appearance, it proved to be a reliable and effective weapon during WW2. Chambered in .45 ACP, it had a slower rate of fire but was easy to control and maintain.
Though officially retired, the M3 has found extended service in the Philippines, where police and military forces still use suppressed versions for urban operations. Its affordability and simplicity have kept it in circulation long after most of its contemporaries have disappeared.
6. STG44 – The Father of Modern Assault Rifles
The STG44 (Sturmgewehr 44) is one of the most historically significant firearms ever made. It was the first mass-produced assault rifle, introducing the concept of an intermediate cartridge that balanced power and recoil, influencing firearms like the AK-47 and M16.
Though no modern military officially uses it, Syrian rebel groups were seen using STG44s as recently as 2012, after discovering old stockpiles of the rifle. Similarly, reports from the Ukrainian conflict in 2014 showed some STG44s being used, highlighting just how durable these rifles are.
7. M101 Howitzer – WW2 Artillery That’s Still Making an Impact
While not a small arm, the M101 105mm howitzer has been in continuous service since World War II. Originally developed in the late 1930s, this artillery piece was widely used by American and Allied forces and became known for its accuracy, reliability, and devastating firepower.
Surprisingly, it hasn’t faded into history. In 2022, Lithuania donated M101 howitzers to Ukraine, where they were used against Russian forces. Despite being nearly a century old, these guns remain effective in modern warfare thanks to upgraded ammunition and targeting systems.
8. D44 Field Gun – Soviet Artillery Still on the Battlefield
Another artillery piece that refuses to retire is the D44 85mm field gun, introduced by the Soviet Union just after World War II. It was based on the main gun of the T-34-85 tank and designed to counter enemy armor.
Despite its age, this gun is still in use today. Videos from 2022 show Ukrainian forces using modified D44 guns mounted on armored vehicles, transforming them into makeshift tank destroyers. It’s incredible to see such an old weapon adapted to modern battlefield conditions.
9. Madsen Light Machine Gun – The Oldest LMG Still in Service
The Madsen Light Machine Gun holds the record for the longest-serving automatic weapon. First introduced in 1902, it saw widespread use in both World Wars and beyond. Unlike many early machine guns, the Madsen was lightweight and portable, making it a favorite for infantry.
Even in the 21st century, Brazilian police forces still use Madsen LMGs, particularly in Rio de Janeiro, where officers rely on them to combat heavily armed drug gangs. The fact that a gun designed over a century ago is still trusted in high-risk operations is a testament to its durability and effectiveness.
Some Legends Never Die
While modern technology has given us advanced firearms, some World War II-era guns remain just as relevant today. Whether it’s due to their unmatched durability, simplicity, or sheer stopping power, these weapons continue to be used in conflicts and law enforcement operations worldwide.
For collectors, history buffs, and military enthusiasts, these guns represent more than just firepower – they are symbols of innovation and resilience that continue to prove their worth, even decades after their initial deployment.
Raised in a small Arizona town, Kevin grew up surrounded by rugged desert landscapes and a family of hunters. His background in competitive shooting and firearms training has made him an authority on self-defense and gun safety. A certified firearms instructor, Kevin teaches others how to properly handle and maintain their weapons, whether for hunting, home defense, or survival situations. His writing focuses on responsible gun ownership, marksmanship, and the role of firearms in personal preparedness.