The Italian Last-Ditch TZ-45 Submachine Gun

Published on August 25, 2017
Duration: 12:45

This guide details the field stripping procedure for the rare Italian TZ-45 submachine gun, a 'last-ditch' weapon from WWII. The process involves removing a front pin, trigger group, buffer springs, bolt, and charging handle. Expert instruction from Ian McCollum of Forgotten Weapons highlights the unique grip safety and historical context of this collectible firearm.

Quick Summary

The Italian TZ-45 is a rare 'last-ditch' submachine gun from 1945, with about 6,000 made. Its unique L-shaped grip safety was the first on an SMG. It fires 9mm Parabellum, has a 550 rpm rate of fire, and uses Beretta 38 magazines. The design was later adopted by Burma as the BA-52.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to the TZ-45
  2. 01:13Designers and Naming
  3. 02:13The Unique Grip Safety
  4. 02:35Basic Specifications
  5. 03:46Combat Efficiency Concerns
  6. 05:49External Features
  7. 07:49Field Stripping
  8. 11:47Historical Context and Rarity

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the TZ-45 submachine gun?

The TZ-45 is a rare Italian 'last-ditch' submachine gun manufactured around 1945 during the final stages of World War II. Approximately 6,000 were produced, and its design was later adopted by Burma as the BA-52.

What is the most distinctive feature of the TZ-45?

The most notable feature of the TZ-45 is its L-shaped grip safety, which acts as a secondary safety mechanism. It must be depressed to fire the weapon or manually cycle the bolt, locking it in both open and closed positions.

What are the basic specifications of the TZ-45?

The TZ-45 fires 9mm Parabellum, has a rate of fire of approximately 550 rounds per minute, and uses 20 or 40-round magazines compatible with the Beretta 38 family. It weighs about 7.05 lbs (3.2 kg).

How is the TZ-45 field stripped?

Field stripping involves removing a two-part front pin to detach the trigger group, depressing the rear buffer spring cap to remove the recoil and buffer springs, and then removing the bolt and charging handle.

Related News

All News →

More Gunsmithing & DIY Videos You Might Like

More from Forgotten Weapons

View all →