This Old Gun: SOLA Super Submachine Gun

Published on June 10, 2020
Duration: 6:35

This guide details the disassembly of the SOLA Super submachine gun, an obscure 9mm firearm from Luxembourg. The video, featuring Mark A. Keefe IV from American Rifleman, provides a historical context and technical overview. It highlights the firearm's design evolution, technical specifications, and market challenges. The disassembly process is demonstrated for maintenance and understanding of its internal mechanisms.

Quick Summary

The SOLA Super is a 9mm submachine gun from Luxembourg, developed by SOLA (Société Luxembourgeoise) post-WWII. It featured an open bolt, direct blowback action, and was constructed from stamped metal for cost-effectiveness. Despite its design, it struggled in the market due to the overwhelming availability of surplus firearms like the Sten gun.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: SOLA Super SMG
  2. 00:27Post-WWII Luxembourg Context
  3. 01:12Formation of SOLA Company
  4. 02:01Design Evolution: Sten to Vigneron Copy
  5. 02:55SOLA Super Technical Features
  6. 03:38The SOLA Legere Variant
  7. 04:16Market Failure and Surplus Competition
  8. 05:16Legacy and African Conflicts

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the SOLA Super submachine gun?

The SOLA Super is a 9mm select-fire submachine gun developed by SOLA (Société Luxembourgeoise) in Luxembourg after WWII. It featured a design incorporating elements from contemporary firearms and was produced using stamped metal parts for economy.

Why did the SOLA Super fail in the market?

The SOLA Super faced intense market competition from vast quantities of surplus firearms, particularly the British Sten gun, which were available at much lower costs. This saturation made it difficult for the SOLA Super to gain traction despite its design.

What were the technical specifications of the SOLA Super?

The SOLA Super operated via an open bolt, direct blowback system, chambered the 9mm cartridge, and had a magazine capacity of 32 rounds. It weighed approximately 6.3 lbs and utilized MP40 compatible magazines.

What historical context led to the development of the SOLA Super?

Following four years of German occupation in WWII, Luxembourg experienced economic depression and lacked a police or military force. The SOLA company was formed in 1953 to address this need and stimulate the economy through arms export, leading to the SOLA Super's design.

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