Cold War Belgium: Comparing the Vigneron M1 and M2 SMGs

Published on December 27, 2023
Duration: 4:58

This guide details the key differences between the Vigneron M1 and M2 submachine guns, as presented by Ian McCollum of Forgotten Weapons. It covers visual identification points such as the front and rear sights, dust cover reinforcement, and receiver markings. The information is derived from an expert analysis of museum examples, highlighting design evolution and historical context.

Quick Summary

The Vigneron M2 submachine gun is an upgraded version of the M1, featuring a hooded front sight protector, an open notch rear sight for better target acquisition, and a reinforced dust cover locking tab. Many M1s were retrofitted to M2 standards, often indicated by a '2' stamped over the '1' on the receiver. Property markings like 'A.B.L.', 'FP', and 'CB' denote their service history with Belgian forces.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Vigneron M1 & M2 at Royal Military Museum
  2. 00:55Change 1: Front Sight Protector (M1 vs M2)
  3. 01:30Change 2: Rear Sight Modification (Aperture vs Notch)
  4. 02:15Change 3: Dust Cover Locking Tab Reinforcement
  5. 03:25Belgian Property Markings Explained (ABL, FP, CB)
  6. 03:56Production Totals & Conclusion

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main visual differences between the Vigneron M1 and M2 submachine guns?

The Vigneron M2 features a hooded front sight protector, an open notch rear sight, and a reinforced dust cover locking tab, distinguishing it from the M1's unprotected front sight, aperture rear sight, and less robust dust cover mechanism. Many M1s were upgraded to M2 standards.

How can I identify a Vigneron M1 that has been upgraded to the M2 standard?

Look for receiver markings on an M1 that show a '2' stamped over the original '1'. This indicates the firearm has been retrofitted to the M2 pattern, incorporating its design improvements for enhanced durability and usability.

What do the property markings like 'A.B.L.', 'FP', and 'CB' mean on Vigneron submachine guns?

These markings denote the original service branch. 'A.B.L.' signifies the Belgian Army (Armée Belge / Belgisch Leger), 'FP' represents the Force Publique (colonial military), and 'CB' stands for Congo Belge (Belgian Congo), indicating the weapon's historical deployment.

Why were the Vigneron M1 and M2 submachine guns updated from the M1 to the M2 pattern?

The updates from the M1 to the M2 pattern were driven by a need for increased durability and improved functionality. Specific changes included a more robust front sight, a more practical rear sight for dynamic shooting, and a reinforced dust cover locking tab to prevent breakage.

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