Wiselite SA M53 fit MG3 Tripod?

[Der Alder]

To get my WLA to fit the tripod initially, I did have to file the 2 hook parts on the tripod that attaches to the gun's pins with a round file. Didn't have to take much off, just enough to clean the teeth off the hooks was enough to get it lock in.

With the gun mounted and the buttstock attached I can push it back by hand and it comes close but does not hit. But I don't want to risk damage (just in case) while live firing so I just take it off. Besides I've seen photos where the germans removed the stock sometimes as well while using their tripods. I keep the stock on while it's on display in my gun room though (looks cooler).

[Bridge]

The role of the red plate still seems to be unclear (at least to me). I received JBaums translated manual on the MG3 Lafette and the description is unclear. The only place in the manual that goes into any detailed description is under the section "Shooting with Maneuver Cartridges" and goes to describe how the plate can be removed "at practice with combat ammunition"

I would take this to mean it can be removed with live ammunition with no negative effects. Removing it provides an additional 3 inches or so between the buttstock and the crossbar on my Wiselite M53. With the plate in place the buttstock is just about 1 inch off the crosspiece.

I would love to get the definitive word on whether the red plate should be removed or not.

Re. the OP's question of fitting of the actual gun on the tripod: I did have to file the hooks on the tripod as well as the mounting boss under the shroud of the gun a good amount to get mine to fit.

pathfinder
"""Isn't the red/orange piece on the rails a lock to allow blank firing?""" No, that piece keeps the rear and front recoil spring apart and working. When the weapon fires it pushes the front springs together in the recoil phase then the return phase happens and the rear springs help to stop the return without a smashing stop. The same tripod setup is used for blank fire or regular fire.

Later 42rocker

[Der Alder]

I was under the impression the bright red plate was used for training ammo to simulate better the recoil of live ammo in training with under powered training ammo. It makes the gun's recoil act closer to live ammo while tripod mounted. Basically it's a shim to enhance/simulate recoil while training. Hence the bright color (as a reminder) that these plates should be removed for combat/live firing. Why else would it be brightly colored if it was meant to be there in combat?

This was what was explained to me and the only thing that makes sense IMO.

I don't think it will hurt anything either way though if left on. Heck guys have modified these tripods to shoot .50 cals off of. I took mine off as I have no intention of using training ammo or blanks. I notice my recoil seems softer shooting it with the plate off.

Perhaps someone knows of a source if info that can prove or disprove this.