From the Vault: German Submachineguns of WWI & WWII

Published on December 10, 2018
Duration: 8:37

This video from Brownells, Inc. provides an expert overview of iconic German submachine guns from WWI and WWII, presented by representatives from Brownells and the Rock Island Auction Company. It covers historical context, design evolution, and key features of models like the Bergmann MP18, Steyr-Solothurn MP34, Erma EMP, MP40, and the late-war S3008, highlighting their significance in military and police history.

Quick Summary

The Bergmann MP18, designed by Hugo Schmeisser, was the first German submachine gun, chambered in 9mm and featuring a 32-round snail drum magazine. The MP40, a Vollmer design, became the standard WWII German SMG due to its stamped steel construction for mass production.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: German SMGs WWI-WWII
  2. 00:35Bergmann MP18: The First German SMG
  3. 01:44Steyr-Solothurn MP34: The 'Rolls Royce' SMG
  4. 03:00Erma EMP: Police & SS Service
  5. 04:50MP40: Iconic WWII German SMG
  6. 05:50S3008: Late-War Sten Copy

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the first German submachine gun?

The first German submachine gun was the Bergmann MP18, designed by Hugo Schmeisser. It was chambered in 9mm and featured a unique 32-round snail drum magazine.

What made the Steyr-Solothurn MP34 notable?

The Steyr-Solothurn MP34 was considered the 'Rolls Royce' of submachine guns due to its high-quality machining. It included features like a built-in magazine loader and a rate of fire of approximately 500 rounds per minute.

How was the MP40 designed for mass production?

The MP40, a design by Heinrich Vollmer, utilized stamped steel components. This manufacturing method allowed for efficient mass production, making it the standard German submachine gun of World War II.

What was the purpose of the late-war S3008?

The S3008 was a German 'last ditch' weapon developed late in WWII. It was a modified copy of the British Sten Mark III, featuring a vertical magazine to simplify production during severe resource shortages.

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