The Yugoslav M56 Submachine Gun: Perhaps Too Simple?

Published on April 29, 2017
Duration: 10:13

This guide details the field stripping and reassembly process for the Yugoslav M56 submachine gun, as demonstrated by Ian McCollum on Forgotten Weapons. It highlights the simple internal components and a critical safety hazard related to the rear end cap reassembly. Proper reassembly is crucial to prevent dangerous spontaneous disassembly during firing.

Quick Summary

The Yugoslav M56 submachine gun, analyzed by Ian McCollum, features an open-bolt blowback action in 7.62x25mm Tokarev, with an MP40-style folding stock. A critical safety flaw requires the rear end cap to be fully locked during reassembly to prevent spontaneous disassembly during firing.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Yugoslav M56 SMG
  2. 00:38Historical Context: M49 vs. M56
  3. 01:20Design and Caliber: MP40 Influence
  4. 02:31Ergonomics and Stock Issues
  5. 03:51Safety Mechanisms Explained
  6. 05:04Fire Selector and Sights
  7. 05:30Critical Disassembly/Reassembly Hazard
  8. 07:23Internal Components Breakdown
  9. 08:45Conclusion: Dealer Sample Status

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key design features of the Yugoslav M56 submachine gun?

The M56 features an open-bolt blowback action, chambered in 7.62x25mm Tokarev, with an under-folding metal stock inspired by the German MP40. It has a push-through fire selector for semi-automatic ('JED') and full-automatic ('RAFAL') modes and a simple flip-up notch sight.

What safety concerns are associated with the Yugoslav M56?

A critical safety hazard exists during reassembly: if the rear end cap is not fully locked, the firearm can spontaneously disassemble during firing. The charging handle can also be rotated to act as a manual safety.

How does the Yugoslav M56 compare to its predecessor, the M49?

The M56 was developed to address issues with the M49, which was based on the Soviet PPSH-41. The M49 had problems with finicky drum magazines and an excessively high rate of fire (1100-1200 RPM), which the M56 aimed to improve upon.

What caliber is the Yugoslav M56 typically chambered in?

The Yugoslav M56 submachine gun is primarily chambered in 7.62x25mm Tokarev. A variant, the M65, was introduced later in 1965 and chambered in 9x19mm Parabellum.

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