Is a broom-handle also a sub-machine gun? Mauser Schnellfeuer with weapon expert Jonathan Ferguson

Published on March 10, 2021
Duration: 6:17

This video, featuring Jonathan Ferguson from the Royal Armouries, explores a rare 1926 prototype Mauser C96 pistol. It reveals that this 'broom-handle' firearm was a select-fire weapon, predating the commonly believed 1928 Spanish Astra origin for the fully automatic C96 'Schnellfeuer'. The prototype demonstrated a functional mechanism for both single and full-auto fire, showcasing Mauser's early exploration of submachine gun concepts.

Quick Summary

A rare 1926 Mauser C96 prototype, presented by Jonathan Ferguson of the Royal Armouries, reveals select-fire capabilities with 'E' (single shot) and 'R' (full auto) markings, challenging the common belief that the fully automatic Schnellfeuer was first developed by Astra in 1928.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to Prototype Mauser C96
  2. 00:15Prototype Markings and Date
  3. 00:40Full-Auto Selector Switch Revealed
  4. 01:20Mauser C96 Design Origin
  5. 01:40Challenging Schnellfeuer Origin Story
  6. 02:15Mauser's 1926 Select-Fire Prototype
  7. 02:40C96 as a Close-Quarter Weapon
  8. 03:15Post-WWI Submachine Gun Evolution
  9. 03:40Prototype Limitations and Mauser's Response
  10. 04:10The Production Schnellfeuer (1930/1931)
  11. 05:10Historical Significance and Usage

Frequently Asked Questions

Was the Mauser C96 ever a submachine gun?

Yes, the Mauser C96 could function as a submachine gun, especially when fitted with a holster stock. A rare 1926 prototype demonstrated select-fire capabilities, allowing for full-automatic fire, making it a potent close-quarter weapon.

Who invented the fully automatic Mauser C96 Schnellfeuer?

While many attribute the fully automatic C96 'Schnellfeuer' to the Spanish company Astra in 1928, a 1926 Mauser prototype revealed in this video shows select-fire capabilities existed earlier, developed by Mauser itself.

What is the significance of the 1926 Mauser C96 prototype?

The 1926 Mauser C96 prototype is significant because it demonstrates Mauser's early development of a select-fire mechanism for the C96, predating the widely recognized 'Schnellfeuer' models and challenging common historical narratives.

How did the Mauser C96 select-fire mechanism work?

The select-fire mechanism on the 1926 prototype featured a switch marked 'E' for single shot and 'R' for serial fire (full auto). The trigger's travel was extended to keep the sear disengaged for continuous firing.

More General Videos You Might Like

More from Royal Armouries

View all →