MAS 44: The French Adopt a Semiauto Rifle

Published on May 17, 2019
Duration: 18:49

This guide details the field stripping process for the French MAS 44 semi-automatic rifle, as demonstrated by Ian McCollum of Forgotten Weapons. It covers the removal of major components like the bolt carrier, recoil spring, and trigger group, while highlighting the rifle's unique direct gas impingement system and its similarities to the MAS 36. The information is presented with a high level of technical detail, reflecting the instructor's expertise.

Quick Summary

The French MAS 44 rifle utilizes a direct gas impingement operating system, where gas acts directly on the bolt carrier. It features a unique 10-round magazine with an external latch, a design necessitated by its receiver's original fixed floorplate configuration. Most were issued to French Navy commandos in Indochina.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction and Historical Context
  2. 01:40Development and Trials
  3. 03:52WWII and Production Challenges
  4. 05:37Design Evolution: The 10-Round Magazine
  5. 06:42External Features and Similarities to MAS 36
  6. 09:03Finishes and Markings
  7. 09:47Internal Mechanics and Disassembly
  8. 12:02Trigger Group and Safety
  9. 16:45Service History and Rarity

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the operating system of the French MAS 44 rifle?

The French MAS 44 rifle operates using a direct gas impingement system. Unlike piston-driven systems, hot propellant gases are routed directly from the barrel into a hollow bolt carrier, which then drives the action.

How does the MAS 44's magazine system differ from typical designs?

The MAS 44 features a unique 10-round detachable box magazine with an external latch mechanism. This design was implemented because the receiver was originally designed for a fixed floorplate, avoiding a costly redesign of the receiver forging.

What historical context surrounds the development of the MAS 44?

The MAS 44 emerged from early French efforts to adopt a semi-automatic rifle post-WWI, evolving from designs like the MAS 40 and facing production challenges during WWII, with tooling hidden to avoid German confiscation.

Where were most MAS 44 rifles issued?

The majority of MAS 44 rifles were issued to French Navy Marine Commandos, primarily serving in Indochina. Despite their rarity globally, they are relatively common in the US surplus market due to a large purchase by an American company.

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