MAS 38 at the Range - Finally!

This review details a rare post-WWII MAS 38 submachine gun variant modified for the Paris Police. Key differences include a collapsing wire stock, a folding magazine well for compact storage, and a selector for semi-automatic and full-automatic fire, unlike the standard military version. These modifications enhanced its utility for police use, particularly in vehicles.

The French Model 1935 pistols, including the 1935A and 1935S, were adopted by the French Army in 1935 and 1937 respectively. Both models feature an 8-round magazine and chamber the 7.65mm French Long cartridge. Early production 1935A pistols were designed by Charles Petter and manufactured by SACM, while the 1935S was a secondary adoption from MAS due to demand. Original surplus ammunition is often unreliable, with modern Steinel Ammunition recommended.

The MAT 49-54 Police submachine gun is a specialized variant of the French MAT 49, developed for the Paris Police in 1954. Key modifications include a fixed wooden stock, a significantly longer barrel (365mm vs. 230mm), and a unique dual-trigger system allowing both semi-automatic and full-automatic fire. This police variant prioritized accuracy and controlled fire over the extreme compactness of the original military paratrooper model.

This expert review of the French MAT-49 submachine gun, presented by Larry Vickers, details its history, specifications, and unique features. Vickers highlights its use in conflicts like the First Indochina War and discusses its 9mm Parabellum chambering, 32-round magazine, and innovative folding magazine well. The review also touches on its operation, sights, and grip safety mechanism, offering practical insights from a seasoned firearms expert.

This video details the unique 'French Finger Trap' issue with the MAS-36 rifle's bayonet, where two rifles can become unintentionally locked together. A 1951 French arsenal memorandum identified this problem, proposing a simple modification to the bayonet handle. Drilling a small hole allows a tool, like a firing pin, to depress the internal spring, enabling the separation of locked rifles.

The M134 Minigun is a scaled-down 7.62 NATO rotary cannon, requiring 24V DC power and consuming 1.5 kW. Its high rate of fire (3,000+ RPM) is essential for aircraft engagement windows. The complex delinker mechanism is critical for feeding ammunition, and practical hand-held use is impossible due to weight and recoil. Live fire demonstrates rapid ammunition consumption and the need for indirect aiming.

The H&K G11 is a revolutionary prototype assault rifle designed in the late 20th century, notable for its caseless ammunition and unique rotating drum bolt mechanism. Despite advanced features like a 2000 RPM burst fire rate and integrated optics, its development was ultimately halted by geopolitical shifts and cost concerns.

This video demonstrates the assembly and live-fire of the German 1936 pattern light mortar (L.Gr.W.36). It highlights the mortar's leveling mechanism for accuracy and the difficulty in visually tracking its 50mm projectiles after firing. The content showcases historical military hardware and its operational use.