I Have This Old Gun: Beretta BM-59E

Published on October 23, 2018
Duration: 4:23

This video details the Beretta BM-59E, a significant modification of the M1 Garand rifle. It highlights the BM-59E's key features, including its adoption of a 20-round detachable box magazine, a recoil-compensating muzzle device, and a conversion to select-fire capability. The historical context of its development, particularly its connection to Argentina's modification of surplus M1 rifles, is explored.

Quick Summary

The Beretta BM-59E is a significant modification of the M1 Garand rifle, developed by Beretta. Key upgrades include a 20-round detachable box magazine, a recoil-compensating muzzle device, and conversion to select-fire capability, often chambered in 7.62x51mm NATO.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to the BM-59E
  2. 00:07BM-59s in the US and Italy
  3. 00:17The Lesser-Known BM-59E
  4. 00:23BM-59E as an M1 Modification
  5. 00:47M1 Garand's Shortcomings
  6. 00:60Detachable Magazine Advantage
  7. 00:75The Beretta BM-59
  8. 00:88BM-59E's Place in History
  9. 00:97BM-59E Modifications Detailed
  10. 01:15Argentine Connection
  11. 01:21US Cruisers Sold to Argentina
  12. 01:37Argentine M1 Rifles and Cartridge Issue
  13. 01:54Decision to Modify M1s
  14. 01:65Modification to Beretta
  15. 01:70BM-59E Conversion Details
  16. 01:79Magazine and Muzzle Device
  17. 01:84Caliber Conversion and Barrel
  18. 02:02Select Fire Conversion Explained
  19. 02:12Selector Switch and Disconnector
  20. 02:29BM-59 Collector Status
  21. 02:42Call to Action: Join NRA

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Beretta BM-59E?

The Beretta BM-59E is a modified version of the M1 Garand rifle. It was developed by Beretta in Italy and features significant upgrades over the original M1, including a detachable 20-round box magazine and select-fire capability.

How was the BM-59E created?

The BM-59E was primarily created by modifying existing M1 Garand rifles. A notable historical instance involved Argentina sending its surplus M1s to Beretta for conversion, which included adding a detachable magazine, a recoil compensator, and select-fire features.

What are the key improvements of the BM-59E over the M1 Garand?

The BM-59E's main improvements include the adoption of a 20-round detachable box magazine, which greatly enhances its utility for modern combat compared to the M1's en-bloc clip. It also features a recoil-compensating muzzle device and was converted to select-fire capability.

What caliber is the Beretta BM-59E?

The Beretta BM-59E is chambered in 7.62x51mm NATO. The conversion from the M1 Garand's original .30-06 caliber involved fitting a new barrel manufactured in Italy by SIAU.

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