From the Vault: German Submachineguns of WWI & WWII

Published on December 10, 2018
Duration: 8:37

This video from Brownells, Inc. explores a collection of German submachine guns from WWI and WWII, presented by experts from Brownells and Rock Island Auction Company. It covers iconic models like the MP18, MP34, EMP, and MP40, detailing their design, historical context, and unique features. The presentation highlights the evolution of submachine gun technology during a critical period in military history.

Quick Summary

This video from Brownells, Inc. explores iconic German submachine guns from WWI and WWII, including the MP18, MP34, EMP, and MP40. Experts from Brownells and Rock Island Auction Company detail their design, historical context, and unique features, highlighting the evolution of SMG technology during a critical period.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to German SMGs
  2. 00:35Bergmann MP18 Overview
  3. 01:44Steyr-Solothurn MP34 Features
  4. 03:00Erma EMP Design and Use
  5. 04:50MP40: WWII Standard SMG
  6. 05:50S3008: Late-War Design

Frequently Asked Questions

What were some of the key German submachine guns featured from WWI and WWII?

The video showcases several significant German submachine guns, including the Bergmann MP18, the Steyr-Solothurn MP34, the Erma EMP, the iconic MP40, and the late-war S3008, a Sten Mark III derivative.

Who designed the Bergmann MP18 and what was its notable feature?

The Bergmann MP18 was designed by Hugo Schmeisser and is recognized as the first German submachine gun. It featured a unique 32-round snail drum magazine that was angled into the magazine well.

What made the Steyr-Solothurn MP34 stand out among submachine guns?

The Steyr-Solothurn MP34 was described as the 'Rolls Royce' of submachine guns due to its high-quality machining. It also featured a convenient built-in magazine loader and a rate of fire of 500 rounds per minute.

How did the MP40 differ in production from earlier submachine guns?

The MP40, the standard German submachine gun of WWII, was designed by Heinrich Vollmer and utilized stamped steel construction. This method allowed for more efficient mass production compared to earlier, more complex designs.

What was the purpose of the S3008 submachine gun?

The S3008 was a late-war German weapon, essentially a copy of the British Sten Mark III, modified with a vertical magazine. Its design was simplified to facilitate production during periods of severe resource shortages.

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