Book Review: The Schmeisser Myth by Martin Helebrant

Published on February 17, 2017
Duration: 9:41

This expert-level review of 'The Schmeisser Myth' by Martin Helebrant, presented by Ian McCollum of Forgotten Weapons, delves into the complex history of German submachine guns. The book meticulously debunks the myth that Hugo Schmeisser designed the MP40, attributing its development to ERMA technicians and German trials officers, while clarifying Schmeisser's actual design of the MP41. It covers early WWI submachine guns, the impact of the Treaty of Versailles on German arms development, and provides extensive technical details on MP38/MP40 variants, magazines, and accessories, making it an invaluable resource for firearms collectors and historians.

Quick Summary

The book 'The Schmeisser Myth' by Martin Helebrant debunks the myth that Hugo Schmeisser designed the MP40. It clarifies that the MP40 was a collaborative effort by ERMA technicians and German trials officers, while Schmeisser did design the MP41. The book covers a broad history of German submachine guns from WWI onwards.

Chapters

  1. 00:05Introduction & Book Overview
  2. 00:30Publisher Quality and Bias
  3. 00:51Book's Scope: More Than MP40
  4. 01:38Covering Early SMG Development
  5. 02:26MP18, MP28, EMP, and Other SMGs
  6. 03:20German Military Obfuscation & Treaty of Versailles
  7. 03:57MP38/MP40 Development & Differences
  8. 04:20The Schmeisser Myth Explained
  9. 05:12Historical Misattributions
  10. 06:00Technical & Collector Details: Magazines
  11. 07:28Other Ancillary Details & Post-War Use
  12. 07:59Overall Impression & Value
  13. 08:34Where to Buy the Book

Frequently Asked Questions

Who designed the MP40 submachine gun?

Contrary to popular belief, Hugo Schmeisser did not design the MP40. The book 'The Schmeisser Myth' clarifies that it was a collaborative effort by technicians from ERMA (Erfurter Maschinenfabrik) and German trials officers.

What is the main focus of 'The Schmeisser Myth' by Martin Helebrant?

The book meticulously details the history of German submachine guns through two World Wars, starting from early WWI designs. It debunks common myths, particularly regarding the MP40's design, and covers obscure developmental firearms.

What historical challenges influenced German submachine gun development?

The Treaty of Versailles significantly impacted German arms development. To circumvent its restrictions, German companies often developed submachine guns offshore or in other countries, leading to complex and sometimes obscured design histories.

What are the key technical details covered in 'The Schmeisser Myth'?

The book provides in-depth information on MP40 variants, manufacturing marks, magazine types and their markings, and accessories like magazine pouches and slings. It also highlights the MP40's problematic single-feed, double-stack magazine.

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