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Drum-Fed LMG for Chinese Warlords: the Finnish LS-26/31

Forgotten Weapons
Published on November 8, 2025
Category: General
Duration: 1:04

This video details the Finnish LS-26/31, a drum-magazine-fed variant of a light machine gun developed for export sales, as the Finnish army was not interested. It highlights the design modifications for the drum magazine, including a cut-out receiver section and a spindle system, and the ingenious adapter required to retain the use of standard box magazines. The discussion focuses on the technical aspects of these conversions.

Tags

LS-26/31
LS-26/32
LS-32
Finnish WWI/WWII Era
Drum Magazine Conversion
Box Magazine Adapter
Export Model
Light Machine Gun

Quick Summary

The Finnish LS-26/31, also known as the LS-26/32 or LS-32, was a drum-magazine-fed light machine gun developed for export. Its design featured a modified receiver to accept the drum magazine directly, utilizing a spindle for securement. Ingeniously, it retained the capability to use standard box magazines via a special adapter.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to Drum Magazine Version
  2. 00:06Model Designations (LS26/31, 26/32, LS32)
  3. 00:13Export Intent and Finnish Army Disinterest
  4. 00:20Drum Magazine Development and Receiver Cut-out
  5. 00:34Drum Magazine Spindle and Feed Tower
  6. 00:38Magazine Catch Mechanism
  7. 00:44Retained Box Magazine Capability
  8. 00:51Removal of Front Box Magazine Catch
  9. 00:54Box Magazine Adapter Device

Frequently Asked Questions

What were the different designations for the drum-fed Finnish light machine gun?

The drum-fed version of this Finnish light machine gun was known by several designations depending on the specific variation. These included the LS26/31, the 26/32, or simply the LS32. These models were primarily developed for export sales.

How did the LS-26/31 accommodate a drum magazine?

The drum magazine conversion for the LS-26/31 involved modifying the receiver by cutting out a section. This allowed a drum magazine with a short feed tower to sit directly upright, engaging with a spindle in the receiver for secure attachment.

Could the drum-fed LS-26/31 still use box magazines?

Yes, a notable feature of this conversion was the retained ability to use standard box magazines. Although the original front catch for box magazines was removed, an adapter device was created to recreate the necessary front section of the magazine well.

Was the drum-fed LS-26/31 adopted by the Finnish army?

No, the Finnish army and government were not interested in adopting this specific drum-magazine-fed variant. It was primarily intended and developed for export sales to other countries.

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