Beretta M1918: Italy's 9mm Semiauto 9mm Carbine from WWI

Published on December 31, 2025
Duration: 1:23

The Beretta M1918 is a rare Italian semi-automatic carbine from WWI, often mistaken for a submachine gun but firing only in semi-auto. It reuses parts from the 1915 Villar Perosa and operates from an open bolt with a delayed blowback system for safety. Chambered in 9mm Glisenti, it features a unique 25-round magazine and a trigger guard repurposed from a Vetterli rifle.

Quick Summary

The Beretta M1918 is a rare Italian semi-automatic carbine from WWI, firing from an open bolt with a unique delayed blowback system. It uses 9mm Glisenti ammunition and has a 25-round capacity, with parts repurposed from the 1915 Villar Perosa and a Vetterli rifle trigger guard.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to the Beretta M1918
  2. 00:11Parts Reuse and Open Bolt Operation
  3. 00:21Magazine Mechanism Details
  4. 00:35Caliber and Trigger Guard
  5. 00:47Mechanical Delay System Explained

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the Beretta M1918 unique among WWI firearms?

The Beretta M1918 is notable as Italy's semi-automatic carbine from WWI, often mistaken for a submachine gun. It features a delayed blowback system and reuses parts from the 1915 Villar Perosa, chambered in 9mm Glisenti.

How does the Beretta M1918's delayed blowback system work?

The M1918 employs a delayed blowback system where an angled surface on the bolt forces it to rotate upward before moving rearward. This mechanical delay allows for safe operation with a lighter bolt, reducing recoil and improving handling.

What caliber does the Beretta M1918 fire, and what is its magazine capacity?

The Beretta M1918 is chambered for an up-powered version of the 9mm Glisenti cartridge. It utilizes a 25-round magazine, with an unconventional front-mounted release mechanism.

Is the Beretta M1918 a submachine gun or a carbine?

The Beretta M1918 is a semi-automatic carbine, not a submachine gun. It fires from an open bolt but only allows for semi-automatic fire, distinguishing it from fully automatic military weapons of the era.

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