Terni Model 1921: Italian Interwar Assault Rifle with a Cube Mag

Published on February 16, 2026
Duration: 16:38

This expert review by Ian McCollum of Forgotten Weapons details the rare Terni Model 1921, an Italian interwar prototype assault rifle. It highlights the rifle's select-fire capability, unique 25-round cube magazine inspired by the Fiat-Revelli M1914, and its 7.35x32mm intermediate cartridge. The analysis covers its short-recoil operation, locking mechanism, and historical context, noting its advanced design for its era.

Quick Summary

The Terni Model 1921 was a rare Italian prototype assault rifle featuring select-fire capability and a unique 25-round 'cube' magazine. It used an intermediate 7.35x32mm cartridge and operated via a short-recoil mechanism with a vertically traveling locking block.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to the Terni 1921
  2. 00:30Historical Context and Development
  3. 01:30The 7.35x32mm Cartridge
  4. 03:23Monopod and Bayonet Mechanics
  5. 05:54The 'Cube' Magazine System
  6. 08:03Markings and Sights
  7. 09:03Action and Operation
  8. 11:08Field Stripping and Internal Components
  9. 12:50Locking Mechanism Explained
  10. 15:20Project Conclusion and Surplus

Frequently Asked Questions

What made the Terni Model 1921 an assault rifle?

The Terni Model 1921 is considered an assault rifle due to its select-fire capability (full-auto and semi-auto), use of an intermediate cartridge (7.35x32mm), and a detachable magazine, meeting the technical definition decades before the term was widely popularized.

What was unique about the Terni 1921's magazine?

The Terni 1921 featured a 25-round 'cube' magazine, inspired by the Fiat-Revelli M1914 machine gun. This innovative design held rounds in five columns of five, indexing sideways across the receiver as each column was expended.

What caliber did the Terni Model 1921 use?

The Terni Model 1921 fired an intermediate cartridge designated as 7.35x32mm. This round featured a 135-grain bullet at approximately 2,000 feet per second, offering ballistics similar to later intermediate cartridges.

How did the Terni 1921 operate?

The Terni 1921 was a short-recoil operated firearm. It utilized a vertically traveling locking block to secure the bolt and featured a manual charging lever on the right side for cycling the action, along with a fire selector for different firing modes.

More Reviews Videos You Might Like

More from Forgotten Weapons

View all →