The Beretta PM-12S Submachine Gun

Published on April 22, 2017
Duration: 8:13

The Beretta PM-12S is a 9x19mm submachine gun known for its compact design and innovative telescoping bolt, which significantly reduces muzzle climb. Introduced in 1958, it replaced older Beretta designs and remains in service with Italian military and police forces. Key features include a grip safety, a rotating fire selector, and a folding metal stock, though the stock's thinness is noted as a comfort issue.

Quick Summary

The Beretta PM-12S is a 9x19mm submachine gun known for its innovative telescoping bolt design, which wraps around the barrel. This allows for a shorter overall length and improved control by moving the center of gravity forward, significantly reducing muzzle climb during automatic fire.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Beretta PM-12S in Italian Service
  2. 00:40Basic Specs & Design History (Marengoni vs. Salza)
  3. 01:40Beretta's Nomenclature Shift & Model 12 Introduction
  4. 02:30The Innovative Telescoping Bolt Design
  5. 03:15Safety Features: Grip & Selector Switches
  6. 04:11Ergonomics: Magazine, Stock & Comfort
  7. 04:51Field Stripping & Disassembly Guide
  8. 05:57Mechanical Advantages: Bolt & Muzzle Climb Control

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the Beretta PM-12S unique?

The Beretta PM-12S features a distinctive telescoping bolt design, similar to the Uzi, which wraps around the barrel. This allows for a shorter overall weapon length while maintaining necessary bolt mass for blowback operation and significantly improves control by moving the center of gravity forward.

What are the key specifications of the Beretta PM-12S?

The PM-12S is a 9x19mm submachine gun weighing approximately 6.5 lbs (3 kg) with a cyclic rate of 550 rounds per minute. It utilizes a double-feed magazine and features a folding metal stock.

Who designed the Beretta PM-12S?

The PM-12S represents a design shift for Beretta, moving away from WWII-era designs by Tullio Marengoni towards post-war innovations by Domenico Salza. The Model 12 was ready for market by 1958.

What safety features does the Beretta PM-12S have?

It includes a prominent grip safety that locks the bolt when the weapon is dropped. The 'S' model features a rotating lever for safe, semi-auto, and full-auto fire modes, replacing the original push-button safety.

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