Why do we know so little about this British SMG? With firearms and weaponry expert Jonathan Ferguson

Published on March 29, 2023
Duration: 14:58

This entry details the rare Soley Armament Limited Model 2, a 1938 British experimental SMG. Expert Jonathan Ferguson from the Royal Armouries explains its design, which is a derivative of the Italian Beretta Model 1918/30 carbine. The video highlights its unique features, including a skeletal buttstock, a friction-held magazine, and a folding bayonet, while noting its 'quasi-bullpup' classification and the mystery surrounding its 'W.O.-M.G.0.5' markings.

Quick Summary

The Soley Armament Limited Model 2 is a rare 1938 British experimental 9mm SMG, derived from the Beretta Model 1918/30. It features a skeletal buttstock, friction-held magazine, and folding bayonet, and is classified as a 'quasi-bullpup'. Its 'W.O.-M.G.0.5' marking remains a mystery.

Chapters

  1. 00:04Introduction: Mystery British SMG
  2. 00:34Weapon Identification: Soley Model 2
  3. 00:55Soley Armament Background
  4. 01:29Unidentified Markings: W.O.-M.G.0.5
  5. 02:27Bullpup Classification: Quasi-Bullpup
  6. 02:50Operational Features: Cocking Handle
  7. 04:31Prototype Details: Magazine Catch
  8. 04:56Magazine Design: Front Loading Tab
  9. 05:53Buttstock Design: Skeletal Steel
  10. 07:29Sights: Adjustable Tangent Rear
  11. 08:00Design Inspiration: Beretta 1918/30
  12. 09:12Beretta Comparison: Key Similarities
  13. 10:47Caliber and Ammunition: 9mm
  14. 11:16Folding Bayonet Feature
  15. 12:52Bolt Release Mechanism
  16. 13:16Summary and Further Research

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Soley Armament Limited Model 2?

The Soley Armament Limited Model 2 is a rare, one-off British experimental submachine gun developed in London in 1938. It is chambered in 9mm and is a derivative of the Italian Beretta Model 1918/30 carbine.

Why is the Soley Model 2 considered a 'quasi-bullpup'?

It's termed a 'quasi-bullpup' because its grip is positioned forward of the breech face, but not fully integrated behind it as in a true bullpup design. This classification is based on technical definitions from firearms expert Jonathan Ferguson.

What are the unique features of the Soley Model 2?

Key features include a skeletal forged steel buttstock with 'butt straps', a friction-held magazine with a front loading tab, and a folding bayonet. It also has a distinctive ring cocking handle and an unknown 'W.O.-M.G.0.5' marking.

What is the historical context of the Soley Model 2?

The Soley Model 2 was designed in 1938 and is a British adaptation of the Italian Beretta Model 1918/30 self-loading carbine. Research into Soley Armament Ltd. suggests more corporate history may be uncovered.

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