SMG Rate of Fire & Controllability

Published on August 17, 2020
Duration: 4:09

This video compares the rate of fire and controllability of three open-bolt submachine guns: the WWI MP18, the WWII MP40, and a modern M11A1 with a Lage Mk31 A2 conversion. While historical SMGs like the MP40 offer excellent controllability due to slower rates of fire and design, modern conversions like the Lage kit significantly increase ROF. Factors influencing controllability include gun weight, bolt weight, spring tension, and ammunition power.

Quick Summary

The controllability of an SMG is influenced by gun weight, bolt weight, spring tension, and ammunition power. While historical SMGs like the MP40 offer good control due to design and slower ROF, modern conversions like the Lage kit increase rate of fire, allowing more hits on target with practice.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Intro: Open Bolt SMGs Compared
  2. 00:53MP18-I: WWI Era SMG Performance
  3. 01:35MP40: WWII Evolution & Controllability
  4. 02:19M11A1 w/ Lage Kit: Modern High ROF
  5. 03:11Controllability Factors & Analysis

Frequently Asked Questions

What factors influence the controllability of a submachine gun?

The controllability of an SMG during full-auto fire is influenced by several factors. These include the overall weight of the firearm, the weight of the reciprocating bolt, the tension of the recoil spring, and the power of the ammunition being used. Lighter guns or those with faster cycling bolts tend to be harder to control.

How does the MP40 compare in controllability to older SMGs like the MP18?

The MP40 generally offers better controllability than earlier designs like the MP18. While the MP18 had a slower rate of fire, the MP40's design, often utilizing stamped sheet metal for efficiency, combined with its 32-round magazine capacity, resulted in very little muzzle climb during full-auto fire, making it easier to keep on target.

What is the primary advantage of modern SMG conversions like the Lage kit?

Modern SMG conversions, such as the M11A1 with a Lage Mk31 A2 upper, primarily offer a significantly higher rate of fire compared to historical counterparts. Despite this increased ROF, skilled shooters can often achieve more hits on target within a single sight picture due to advancements in design and accessories.

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