Prototype French MAS-49 SMG in .45ACP

Published on January 31, 2024
Duration: 7:57

This video provides an in-depth look at a rare prototype French MAS-49 SMG chambered in .45 ACP, presented by Ian McCollum of Forgotten Weapons. It details the unique lever-delayed blowback action, the innovative magazine design inspired by the MP40, and its place within the post-WWII French submachine gun development program, ultimately comparing it to the adopted MAT-49.

Quick Summary

The prototype French MAS-49 SMG in .45 ACP, presented by Ian McCollum of Forgotten Weapons, features a unique lever-delayed blowback action and a collapsing wire stock. Its double-stack, single-feed magazine was inspired by the MP40, and the folding magazine well serves as both a front grip and a safety mechanism by preventing chambering.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Prototype French MAS-49 SMG
  2. 00:12MAS-49 Prototype Chambered in .45 ACP
  3. 00:29Post-WWII French SMG Program & Caliber Choice
  4. 01:05MAS 1949 Markings and Design Details
  5. 01:20Comparison with MAS Model 1948
  6. 02:08Shared Design Features: Stock and Magazine Well
  7. 02:44Magazine Well as Front Grip and Safety
  8. 03:05Unique Magazine Design (MP40 Inspired)
  9. 03:41Safety Mechanism and Double Trigger System
  10. 04:20Takedown Comparison: MAS-49 vs MAS-48
  11. 05:30Lever-Delayed Blowback System Explained
  12. 06:34Speculation on .45 ACP Caliber Choice

Frequently Asked Questions

What is unique about the MAS Model 1949 prototype SMG discussed in the video?

The MAS Model 1949 prototype SMG is unique for being chambered in .45 ACP, featuring a lever-delayed blowback action, a collapsing wire stock, and a folding magazine well that doubles as a front grip and safety mechanism. Its rarity is indicated by a low serial number.

How does the lever-delayed blowback system work on the MAS-49 prototype?

The lever-delayed blowback system uses a lever to slow the bolt carrier's rearward movement. This allows the bolt face to unlock safely after chamber pressure has significantly decreased, managing recoil and enabling the use of less robust materials or designs compared to direct blowback.

What inspired the magazine design for the prototype MAS-49 SMG?

The magazine for the prototype MAS-49 SMG is a unique double-stack, single-feed design. Its floor plate system was inspired by the German MP40 magazine, reflecting cross-pollination of firearm design ideas during the post-WWII era.

Why was the .45 ACP caliber an unusual choice for a French SMG prototype?

The .45 ACP caliber was an unusual choice because France was standardizing on 9mm Parabellum for its submachine guns post-WWII. While France did possess some Thompsons after the war, .45 ACP was not a standard French military caliber, making this prototype's chambering noteworthy.

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