SIG Manurhin 543 Semiauto: I Really Like This Rifle

Published on May 23, 2026
Duration: 17:55

This video provides an in-depth review and technical breakdown of the SIG 543 semi-automatic rifle, presented by Ian McCollum of Forgotten Weapons. The SIG 543, a carbine variant of the SIG 540 series, is explored for its historical context, design features, and operational mechanics. The review highlights its development stemming from SIG's collaboration with Beretta and later Manurhin in France due to Swiss neutrality laws. The video includes a detailed field-strip demonstration, showcasing its long-stroke gas piston system and AK-like rotating bolt mechanism, while also noting its unique features like a longitudinal hammer spring and optics mounting points. Shooting impressions emphasize its pleasant recoil and handling, despite a noted subpar trigger.

Quick Summary

The SIG 543 is a compact carbine variant of the SIG 540 series, developed in the 1970s. It features an 11.5-inch barrel, a folding stock, and a long-stroke gas piston system, often manufactured by Manurhin in France due to Swiss export restrictions. Disassembly involves removing the stock, separating receivers, and then extracting the gas piston and bolt carrier.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to the SIG 543
  2. 00:46Historical Development: SIG & Beretta Collaboration
  3. 01:38SIG 540 Series Variants (540, 543, 542, 541)
  4. 02:22Shooting Impressions and Recoil
  5. 03:29French & Lebanese Connection: Manurhin Manufacturing
  6. 04:59Original vs. Modified Parts (Pistol Grip)
  7. 05:40Trigger Quality Assessment
  8. 06:04Field Stripping: Stock and Receiver Separation
  9. 06:40Gas Block and Piston Removal
  10. 07:52Bolt Carrier and Bolt Disassembly
  11. 08:11Gas Tube and Handguard Removal
  12. 08:45Bolt Carrier and Bolt Mechanism Details
  13. 09:26Fire Control Group and Hammer Spring
  14. 10:00Selector Markings and Magazine Compatibility
  15. 10:19Final Thoughts and Enjoyment of the Rifle

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the SIG 543 rifle?

The SIG 543 is a compact carbine variant of the SIG 540 series of rifles, developed in the 1970s. It features an 11.5-inch barrel, a folding stock, and a long-stroke gas piston system, often manufactured by Manurhin in France due to Swiss export restrictions.

What is the historical significance of the SIG 540 series?

The SIG 540 series originated from a SIG-Beretta collaboration in the 1960s. Later, due to Swiss neutrality laws, SIG partnered with Manurhin in France to produce these rifles for export to various countries, including France and Lebanon.

How is the SIG 543 disassembled?

Disassembly involves removing the stock, then separating the upper and lower receivers by removing a pin. The gas block is then removed by rotating a screw, allowing the gas piston and bolt carrier to be extracted. The bolt slides out from the rear, and the gas tube can be removed from the front.

What are the notable features of the SIG 543's internal mechanism?

The SIG 543 uses a long-stroke gas piston system and a rotating bolt similar to an AK. It features a longitudinal hammer spring, which is designed to provide reduced resistance at the end of its travel, potentially enhancing reliability in adverse conditions.

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