The French MAS-38 Submachine Gun

Published on May 4, 2017
Duration: 14:24

This guide details the tool-less field stripping process for the French MAS-38 submachine gun, as demonstrated by Ian McCollum. It covers removing the stock, bolt carrier, and barrel, emphasizing safety checks throughout. The video highlights the MAS-38's unique design features, including its offset barrel and compact size, making it suitable for historical firearms enthusiasts and gunsmiths.

Quick Summary

The French MAS-38 submachine gun, chambered in 7.65x20mm French Long, features a unique offset barrel design for a lower profile and tool-less field stripping. Developed in the late 1930s and adopted in 1940, it saw service through WWII and beyond, notably in Indo-China.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to MAS-38
  2. 00:50Development History
  3. 02:15Production & WWII Context
  4. 03:15Caliber & Performance
  5. 04:30Physical Specifications
  6. 05:00Sights & Markings
  7. 07:05Operation & Safety
  8. 09:30Disassembly & Design Features
  9. 12:10Service Life & Trivia

Frequently Asked Questions

What caliber is the French MAS-38 submachine gun?

The French MAS-38 submachine gun is chambered in the 7.65mm French Long (7.65x20mm) cartridge. This caliber was chosen for its manageable recoil and allowed soldiers to carry more ammunition compared to heavier calibers like 9mm.

How is the MAS-38 field stripped?

The MAS-38 features tool-less field stripping. The process involves ensuring the firearm is unloaded, disengaging the bolt with the trigger safety, removing the stock, then removing the bolt carrier group and barrel from the receiver.

What are the key design features of the MAS-38?

Key design features of the MAS-38 include its offset barrel (6 degrees from the receiver) for a lower profile, a unique trigger safety mechanism, and a sliding dust cover. It operates on a blowback, open-bolt, full-auto-only system.

When was the MAS-38 developed and adopted?

Development of the MAS-38 began in the early 1920s, with its adoption by the French military occurring in 1940. Production continued through WWII and into the early 1950s.

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