Machine Gun Terminology Part 2: SMG, PDW, & Machine Pistol

Published on January 12, 2018
Duration: 13:05

This video differentiates between Submachine Guns (SMGs), Personal Defense Weapons (PDWs), and Machine Pistols (MPs). SMGs use pistol calibers, have a stock, and are full-auto. Machine Pistols retain a handgun form factor for one or two-handed grip. PDWs are designed for support personnel needing more than a pistol but less than a rifle, often featuring armor-piercing capabilities or compact, holsterable designs.

Quick Summary

A Submachine Gun (SMG) uses pistol calibers, has a shoulder stock, and fires automatically. A Machine Pistol is a handgun-sized firearm capable of automatic fire. A PDW is a compact weapon for support troops, offering more than a pistol but less than a rifle, sometimes with armor-piercing rounds.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Intro: SMG, PDW, Machine Pistol Terminology
  2. 00:52Defining the Submachine Gun (SMG)
  3. 02:02Defining the Machine Pistol (MP)
  4. 04:21The Concept of the Personal Defense Weapon (PDW)
  5. 06:12Armor-Piercing Capabilities of Modern PDWs
  6. 08:34Holsterable SMGs as PDWs
  7. 11:47Understanding Terminology Overlap

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key characteristics of a Submachine Gun (SMG)?

A Submachine Gun (SMG) is defined by three main criteria: it fires pistol caliber cartridges, features a shoulder stock (either fixed or folding), and is capable of fully automatic fire. Examples include the MAS-38 and MP40.

How is a Machine Pistol different from an SMG?

A Machine Pistol retains a standard handgun form factor, designed for one or two-handed use from the grip. While capable of automatic fire, they are essentially pistols modified for select-fire capability, unlike SMGs which have a rifle-like configuration with a stock.

What is the intended role of a Personal Defense Weapon (PDW)?

PDWs were conceived for non-combat personnel like vehicle crews or support staff who require more firepower and accuracy than a pistol but need a more compact weapon than a standard rifle. Modern PDWs often use specialized ammunition for armor penetration.

Can a PDW also be considered an SMG?

Yes, the terminology often overlaps. Many firearms classified as PDWs technically meet the definition of an SMG. The PDW designation often highlights the weapon's intended defensive role for support personnel rather than strict technical classification.

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