M38 Carcano Carbine: Brilliant or Rubbish?

Published on August 1, 2017
Duration: 16:55

The M38 Carcano Fucile Corto, chambered in 7.35mm, is presented as a well-thought-out WWII rifle design, contrary to its poor reputation. Its fixed 200-meter rear sight is highlighted as a brilliant, simplified feature for common combat ranges. Ammunition compatibility issues with non-standard bullet diameters are identified as the primary cause of its negative perception.

Quick Summary

The M38 Carcano's poor reputation is mainly due to ammunition issues with non-standard bullet diameters. Its fixed 200-meter rear sight is a brilliant design, simplifying production and improving reliability for common combat ranges, contrary to its negative perception.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: M38 Carcano's Reputation
  2. 00:27Ammunition Issues & Accuracy Problems
  3. 01:49Evolution: WWI vs WWII Rifle Design
  4. 06:05M38 Design Features: Bolt & Sights
  5. 08:02Brilliant Fixed Rear Sight Philosophy
  6. 09:50Caliber Change & Logistics (7.35mm to 6.5mm)
  7. 11:377.35mm Ballistics Analysis

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does the M38 Carcano have a bad reputation?

The M38 Carcano's poor reputation, especially in the US, stems largely from ammunition issues. Both 6.5mm and 7.35mm versions use non-standard bullet diameters. Using standard bullets (.264 or .308) leads to poor accuracy and dangerous overpressure, unfairly tarnishing the rifle's image.

What makes the M38 Carcano's fixed rear sight brilliant?

The M38 features a fixed 200-meter zero rear sight, which is considered brilliant because it simplifies production, enhances reliability by preventing damage, and is effective for most combat engagements occurring within 300 yards, eliminating soldier error.

What caliber was the M38 Carcano originally intended for?

The M38 Carcano was initially adopted in the 7.35x51mm caliber for improved terminal ballistics. However, due to wartime logistical challenges, Italy was forced to revert to the 6.5x52mm caliber in 1940.

How does the 7.35mm Carcano cartridge compare to others?

The 7.35x51mm Carcano cartridge fires a 128-grain bullet at around 2500 fps. This performance is notably similar to the 7.62x39mm round, positioning it as a very effective intermediate-style cartridge for a carbine.

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