Assassination Guns: Elimination By Extreme Prejudice (The Welrod & Welwand)

Published on April 19, 2017
Duration: 8:04

This video delves into the specialized suppressed firearms Welrod and Welwand, developed by the British SOE for WWII espionage and assassination. It details their origins, operational purpose for psychological warfare, and technical specifications, including different calibers and unique operational mechanics like the magazine-grip on the Welrod and sleeve concealment of the Welwand. The content highlights the historical significance and extended service life of these clandestine weapons.

Quick Summary

The Welrod and Welwand were specialized suppressed firearms developed by the British SOE during WWII for clandestine assassination and psychological warfare. The 'Wel' prefix denotes their origin at Station 9 in Welwyn, Hertfordshire. The Welrod featured a unique magazine grip and removable suppressor, while the Welwand was a single-shot sleeve gun for extreme concealment.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to SOE Assassination Tools
  2. 01:01Naming and Origin: Station 9
  3. 01:40Operational Purpose and Psychological Warfare
  4. 02:12Welrod History and Service Life
  5. 03:21Welrod Technical Specifications
  6. 04:02Welrod Manual of Arms
  7. 04:33The Welwand (Sleeve Gun)
  8. 05:44Welwand Deployment and Concealment

Frequently Asked Questions

What were the Welrod and Welwand firearms designed for?

The Welrod and Welwand were specialized suppressed firearms developed by the British Special Operations Executive (SOE) during WWII. Their primary purpose was for clandestine assassination of high-ranking enemy officials and sowing fear through silent, untraceable attacks.

Where did the name 'Welrod' and 'Welwand' come from?

The 'Wel' prefix in the names of these firearms refers to Welwyn, Hertfordshire, specifically Station 9 (The Frythe), where the SOE conducted its research and development for experimental weapons.

What were the key technical specifications of the Welrod pistol?

The Welrod was produced in .32 ACP (12 inches long, 35 oz) and 9mm (14 inches long, 3 lbs 4 oz) versions. It featured a bolt-action mechanism, a removable suppressor, and a unique design where the magazine served as the pistol grip.

How was the Welwand sleeve gun designed to be used?

The Welwand was a single-shot, suppressed weapon measuring 8 inches long and weighing 26 oz. It was designed to be hidden up an operative's sleeve, attached by a lanyard, allowing for point-blank assassination before being quickly retracted.

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