German Sten Copy: MP 3008, aka Gerät Neumünster

Published on February 4, 2016
Duration: 9:27

This expert-level review from Ian McCollum of Forgotten Weapons details the MP 3008, a German Sten gun copy produced under desperate WWII conditions. The analysis highlights its simplified design, crude construction, use of MP40 magazines, and open-bolt blowback operation, providing deep insight into late-war German small arms production.

Quick Summary

The MP 3008 (Gerät Neumünster) is a WWII German submachine gun, a simplified copy of the British Sten gun, built for rapid, low-cost production. It fires 9x19mm Parabellum, uses MP40 magazines, and features crude construction, an open-bolt blowback action, and vertical magazine feed.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to the MP 3008
  2. 00:40German Copy of the British Sten
  3. 01:07Design Modifications and Magazine
  4. 02:40Production and Manufacturers
  5. 04:00Visual Inspection and Build Quality
  6. 05:13Internal Mechanics
  7. 08:15Auction and Deactivation Details

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the MP 3008?

The MP 3008, also known as the Gerät Neumünster, is a 'last-ditch' German submachine gun produced at the end of World War II. It's essentially a simplified, low-cost copy of the British Sten gun, designed for rapid manufacturing under desperate conditions.

How does the MP 3008 differ from the British Sten gun?

While based on the Sten, the MP 3008 features a vertical magazine feed instead of a side feed and is designed to use standard 32-round MP40 magazines, which were readily available in German logistics. Its construction is also notably cruder.

What caliber is the MP 3008 and what magazines does it use?

The MP 3008 fires the 9x19mm Parabellum cartridge. Crucially, it was designed to accept standard 32-round MP40 magazines, integrating with existing German supply chains.

What is the significance of the MP 3008's crude construction?

The crude construction, including rough welds and simple stamped components, was a deliberate design choice reflecting the extreme material and time constraints faced by Germany in 1945. It prioritized rapid, low-cost production over refinement.

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