Q&A: Finland and Finnish Small Arms (From Berdan to New Sako AR)

Published on February 19, 2025
Duration: 51:24

This Q&A session with Ian McCollum delves into the history and evolution of Finnish small arms, from early Berdan rifles to the modern Sako M23. It covers iconic firearms like the Suomi KP/-31 submachine gun, comparing it to Soviet designs, and discusses the development of Finnish assault rifles like the RK 62 and RK 95. The discussion also touches upon Finnish Maxim machine guns and the adoption of new Sako platforms.

Quick Summary

Ian McCollum details the evolution of Finnish small arms, highlighting the Suomi KP/-31's superiority over the Soviet PPSh-41 and the modernization efforts leading to the RK 62 M3 and the new Sako M23 rifle in 5.56mm and 7.62mm NATO.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Finland & Firearms Q&A
  2. 00:43Suomi KP/-31 vs. PPSh-41
  3. 03:27Oldest Firearms in Finnish Service
  4. 05:03Suomi KP/-31 Design Features
  5. 08:47Finnish Maxim Machine Guns
  6. 11:45Finnish Culture and Spirits
  7. 17:07Global Popularity of Finnish Designs
  8. 22:24RK 95 and RK 62 Modernization
  9. 28:27Modifications to Soviet PKM and SVD
  10. 30:01Sako M23 Adoption

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the significance of the Suomi KP/-31 in Finnish firearms history?

The Suomi KP/-31 is a highly regarded Finnish submachine gun predating the Soviet PPSh-41. It was known for its superior manufacturing quality, reliability, and innovative drum magazine design, which influenced Soviet weapon development after capture during the Winter War.

How did Finland modernize its infantry rifles?

Finland focused on upgrading existing RK 62 rifles into the RK 62 M3 variant for reservists, a more cost-effective approach than mass-producing the RK 95. The new Sako M23 is now being adopted in both 5.56mm and 7.62mm NATO calibers.

What were some of the earliest firearms used by Finland against the Soviets?

The oldest firearms used in significant quantities by Finland against the Soviets were the 1870 Russian Berdan II rifles, which the Finns had in inventory with available ammunition, unlike earlier smuggled Swiss Vetterli rifles.

What are the key features of the new Sako M23 rifle?

The Sako M23 is an AR-platform rifle adopted by Finland for both standard infantry (5.56x45mm NATO) and Designated Marksman Rifle (7.62x51mm NATO) roles. Finland is testing both direct impingement and piston operating systems for its 5.56mm variant.

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