Madsen Model 1945: A Rather Unusual SMG

Published on March 9, 2026
Duration: 13:51

This guide covers the partial disassembly of the Madsen Model 1945 submachine gun, as demonstrated by Ian McCollum. It highlights the challenges encountered even with reference materials, emphasizing the complexity of this rare firearm. The video showcases the importance of understanding historical firearms and the potential difficulties in their maintenance.

Quick Summary

The Madsen Model 1945 submachine gun is a rare and unusual firearm known for its high-quality, complex design, functioning somewhat like an automatic pistol. It fires 9mm Parabellum from an open bolt and uses 50-round Suomi magazines. Despite its sophisticated features, it was a commercial failure due to high production costs, leading Madsen to develop the simpler M1950.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Madsen Model 1945
  2. 00:30Historical Context: DISA & Post-WWII Need
  3. 01:15Unusual Design & Aesthetics
  4. 02:06Physical Characteristics & Ergonomics
  5. 03:03Sights & Controls
  6. 03:49Operating System & Firing Mechanism
  7. 04:43Disassembly Challenges & Safety
  8. 09:03Commercial Failure & Rarity
  9. 09:54Comparison to M1950
  10. 10:19Conclusion & Springfield Armory Access

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the Madsen Model 1945 submachine gun unusual?

The Madsen Model 1945 is unusual due to its high-quality, complex design, functioning somewhat like an automatic pistol with a reciprocating slide. It also features a hammer-fired, open-bolt action and an M1 Garand-style safety, making it distinct from many contemporaries.

Why was the Madsen Model 1945 a commercial failure?

Despite its sophisticated design, the Madsen Model 1945 was too expensive and complex to manufacture for the post-WWII market, which favored simpler, cheaper stamped submachine guns. It saw limited sales to countries like Mexico and El Salvador.

What historical context led to the development of the Madsen Model 1945?

Following WWII, Madsen anticipated losing the license to produce Finnish Suomi SMGs, especially with Finland's geopolitical situation. This prompted Madsen to develop its own proprietary submachine gun, the Model 1945, to ensure they had a product to sell.

What are the key technical specifications of the Madsen Model 1945?

The Madsen Model 1945 weighs 3.15 kg (empty), fires the 9mm Parabellum caliber, and typically uses 50-round quad-stack Suomi magazines. It features a fixed wooden stock, adjustable rear sights for 100m/200m, and operates via an open-bolt, blowback, hammer-fired action.

More Gunsmithing & DIY Videos You Might Like

More from Forgotten Weapons

View all →