9The Panzerschreck, officially designated as the Raketenpanzerbüchse 54 (RPzB 54), was an 88mm reusable anti-tank rocket launcher developed by Nazi Germany during World War II. The name “Panzerschreck” translates to “tank terror” or “tank’s bane,” reflecting its intended role on the battlefield. Another colloquial nickname for the weapon was “Ofenrohr,” meaning “stove pipe,” due to its tubular appearance.

Development and Design
The Panzerschreck’s development was influenced by the American M1 Bazooka, which German forces encountered during the Tunisian campaign in 1942. Recognizing the effectiveness of the Bazooka, German engineers sought to create a similar weapon with enhanced capabilities. The result was the Panzerschreck, which featured a larger 88mm caliber compared to the Bazooka’s 57mm, allowing it to penetrate thicker armor.
The weapon was shoulder-launched and fired fin-stabilized rockets equipped with shaped-charge warheads. Early models lacked protective features, exposing operators to backblast and heat hazards. To address this, a blast shield was added in February 1944, increasing the weapon’s weight to approximately 11 kg. Later versions, such as the RPzB 54/1, featured improvements like a shorter barrel and an effective range of up to 180 meters.
Tactical Use and Impact
The Panzerschreck was designed to provide infantry units with a portable solution against armored vehicles. Its ability to penetrate substantial armor made it a formidable threat to Allied tanks. However, the weapon’s use produced significant smoke and backblast, revealing the operator’s position and necessitating immediate relocation after firing. This limitation also made it challenging to use from enclosed spaces.
German tactical doctrine evolved to incorporate Panzerschreck teams in staggered formations, ensuring that attacking armor would face anti-tank fire from multiple directions within a range of about 69 meters. Operators were trained to target the thinner side or rear armor of enemy tanks for maximum effectiveness.
Comparison with Other Anti-Tank Weapons
The Panzerschreck was one of several anti-tank weapons used during World War II. Its design was notably influenced by the American Bazooka, leading to similarities in operation and purpose. However, the Panzerschreck’s larger caliber allowed for greater armor penetration. Another German anti-tank weapon was the Panzerfaust, a light, disposable launcher that, unlike the reusable Panzerschreck, was designed for single use.

Legacy and Cultural References
The Panzerschreck has been depicted in various forms of media, including films and video games, often symbolizing the anti-tank capabilities of World War II German forces. Its distinctive design and battlefield role have made it a subject of interest among military historians and enthusiasts.
FAQS
The Panzerschreck, officially known as the Raketenpanzerbüchse 54, was a prominent German anti-tank weapon during World War II. Below are some frequently asked questions to provide a comprehensive understanding of this weapon:
What is a Panzerschreck?
The Panzerschreck, translating to “tank’s fright” or “tank’s bane” in German, was an 88mm reusable anti-tank rocket launcher developed by Nazi Germany during World War II. It was designed to be shoulder-fired and launched fin-stabilized rockets equipped with shaped-charge warheads, making it effective against armored vehicles. citeturn0search6
How did the Panzerschreck originate?
The development of the Panzerschreck was influenced by the American “bazooka,” which the Germans encountered during the Tunisian campaign in November 1942. Recognizing its potential, German engineers created an enlarged version with an 88mm caliber, allowing for greater armor penetration.
What were the key specifications of the Panzerschreck?
Caliber: 88mm
Length: 164 cm
Weight: Approximately 9.25 kg (empty); later models with blast shields weighed around 11 kg
Effective Range: Up to 150 meters
Penetration Capability: Able to penetrate up to 230 mm of rolled homogeneous armor at a 90-degree angle
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How did the Panzerschreck differ from the Panzerfaust?
While both were German anti-tank weapons, the Panzerschreck was a reusable rocket launcher, whereas the Panzerfaust was a single-use, disposable weapon. The Panzerschreck had a longer range and could penetrate thicker armor, but it was heavier and produced significant backblast, necessitating protective measures for the operator.
What safety precautions were necessary when operating the Panzerschreck?
Due to the substantial backblast and smoke produced upon firing, operators were advised to wear heavy gloves, protective ponchos, and gas masks without filters. In February 1944, a blast shield was added to the weapon to offer additional protection to the user. citeturn0search6
What were the tactical uses of the Panzerschreck during World War II?
German infantry units employed the Panzerschreck to ambush enemy tanks, often setting up in staggered trenches no more than 115 meters apart. This formation allowed them to target armored vehicles from multiple directions within an effective range of about 69 meters. Operators aimed for the thinner side or rear armor of tanks to maximize damage.
Which countries used the Panzerschreck?
Primarily used by Nazi Germany, the Panzerschreck was also supplied to Finland, where it was effectively utilized against Soviet armor. Additionally, the Italian Social Republic and Hungary employed the weapon during the later stages of World War II.
Are there any surviving Panzerschreck units today?
Yes, several museums worldwide have preserved Panzerschreck units. For instance, The Tank Museum in Bovington, UK, features this weapon in its collection. Additionally, private collectors and military history enthusiasts have restored functional units for educational and demonstration purposes.
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