Estonia's Domestic Arms Production: Arsenal Tallinn SMG

Published on October 11, 2024
Duration: 15:46

This guide details the field stripping procedure for the Arsenal Tallinn SMG, an obscure submachine gun from interwar Estonia. The process involves opening the receiver, removing the bolt and recoil spring assembly, and then disassembling the firing pin. The design shares similarities with the German MP18.

Quick Summary

The Arsenal Tallinn SMG, developed in Estonia during the interwar period, is chambered in 9x20mm Browning semi-rimmed and features a unique 50-round magazine with a backward cant to prevent rimlock. Based on the German MP18, it operates via simple blowback from an open bolt and has a progressive trigger for semi-auto and full-auto fire. Approximately 600 were made, with many sold to Spain during its Civil War, contributing to their rarity.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to Arsenal Tallinn SMG
  2. 00:32History of Arsenal Tallinn Facility
  3. 03:06Development and Design Basis
  4. 03:46Caliber and Unique Magazine Design
  5. 06:46Mechanical Operation and Trigger
  6. 08:08Field Stripping Procedure
  7. 11:32Production and Distribution Details
  8. 13:32Later History and Rarity

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the primary purpose of the Arsenal Tallinn facility?

Established in 1920 in Tallinn, Estonia, the Arsenal facility initially focused on repairing and maintaining military equipment. It later expanded its operations to include manufacturing parts and even armored cars for the Estonian military.

What caliber does the Arsenal Tallinn SMG fire, and what is unique about its magazine?

The Arsenal Tallinn SMG is chambered in 9x20mm Browning semi-rimmed. It features a 50-round magazine with a distinct backward cant designed to prevent rimlock, a common issue with semi-rimmed cartridges.

What design influenced the Arsenal Tallinn SMG, and how many were produced?

The Arsenal Tallinn SMG's development began in 1926, heavily influenced by the German MP18. Approximately 600 units were produced and distributed among Estonian military and police forces.

Why are surviving Arsenal Tallinn SMGs considered rare?

Most of the approximately 600 Arsenal Tallinn SMGs produced were sold to Spain during the Spanish Civil War in the late 1930s. This significant sale, combined with the attrition of time, makes surviving examples exceptionally rare today.

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