The Sturmgewehr 58, or StG58, is a testament to Austrian military innovation in the 1950s. It emerged from the need to modernize Austria's infantry armament in response to the looming threat of Soviet expansion. Austrian military leaders sought a potent Sturmgewehr, and in the FN FAL, they found a foundation that resonated with their requirements. Refining the design to fit their unique needs, they chose to emulate West Germany's Gewehr 1, a version of the FN FAL. This preference stemmed from the Bundeswehr's specific requests, which led to design improvements in the FAL's firing pin and extractor, enhancing its reliability. Further enhancements included stamped sheet metal handguards, a bipod, and a lowered sight line, all attuned to Austria's operational context.

The focal point of the StG58's uniqueness was its multi-purpose muzzle device, an innovation spearheaded by Major Stoll of the Austrian purchasing commission. This ingenious contraption served as a flash suppressor, grenade launcher mount, and barbed wire cutter all in one. Such versatility underscored the Austrian foresight in envisioning the diverse scenarios their infantry might encounter. The decision to forgo a bayonet lug and the adoption of G1-style handguards demonstrated a forward-thinking approach to rifle design. Chambered in 7.62x51mm NATO, the StG58 operates on a short stroke gas system with a tilting bolt mechanism, delivering commendable performance in the field. With its 21-inch barrel and a right-hand twist of one turn in 12 inches, the StG58 was poised to offer reliable and accurate fire. A 20-round detachable, staggered-column, box-type magazine ensured sufficient ammunition supply, while its sights—featuring a protected front post and an aperture graduated for ranges from 100 to 600 meters—enabled precise target acquisition.

With an overall length of 44.75 inches (1,136.65 mm) and a weight of 9 pounds 6 ounces (4.25 kg) excluding the bipod, the StG58 was a robust yet manageable companion for the Austrian infantry. It achieved a velocity of 2,750 feet per second, allowing for effective engagement across various combat environments. The StG58 brought a new level of adaptability and effectiveness to the Austrian armed forces, proving instrumental in their defense strategies. Its legacy endures not only as a testament to Austrian ingenuity but also as a reminder of the critical role it played during a pivotal era in European military history.