PPS-43: The Red Army’s Foldy-Boi SMG

Published on June 30, 2022
Duration: 13:42

This guide details the field stripping and basic operation of the PPS-43 submachine gun, as demonstrated by Brandon Herrera. It covers the disassembly process, highlighting the simple stamped sheet metal construction and open-bolt action. The video emphasizes the PPS-43's role as a more cost-effective and easier-to-manufacture successor to the PPSh-41, designed for the Red Army during WWII.

Quick Summary

The PPS-43, designed by Alexei Sudayev, is a Soviet WWII submachine gun notable for its stamped sheet metal construction, making it cheaper and faster to produce than the PPSh-41. It fires the 7.62x25mm Tokarev cartridge from 35-round stick magazines and features a controllable cyclic rate of 600-700 RPM with an open-bolt, direct blowback action.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to WWII SMGs
  2. 01:00Basic Operation and Caliber
  3. 02:01History and Design Evolution
  4. 05:47Controls and Ergonomics
  5. 10:24Disassembly and Internals

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the PPS-43 different from the PPSh-41?

The PPS-43 was designed for simpler, faster manufacturing using stamped sheet metal, unlike the PPSh-41. It also features a lower cyclic rate (600-700 RPM vs. 1200 RPM) and uses 35-round stick magazines instead of drum magazines.

What caliber does the PPS-43 fire?

The PPS-43 fires the 7.62x25mm Tokarev pistol cartridge. This caliber was common in Soviet sidearms and submachine guns of the era, offering a balance of power and manageable recoil.

How is the PPS-43 field stripped?

Field stripping involves ensuring the firearm is unloaded, manipulating the safety/bolt capture, removing the top receiver assembly, and then extracting the bolt. Reassembly is the reverse process. The design emphasizes simplicity.

Who designed the PPS-43?

The PPS-43 was designed by Alexei Sudayev. It was developed during World War II as a more economical and efficient alternative to the earlier PPSh-41 submachine gun.

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