The Extremely Rare Folding Stock Beretta 38/43

Published on December 12, 2025
Duration: 8:48

This expert-level entry details the extremely rare Beretta 38/43 submachine gun, as presented by Ian McCollum of Forgotten Weapons. It covers the firearm's historical context, unique visual features like its fluted barrel and underfolding stock, and operational controls including the dual-trigger system for fire selection. The guide also includes a field strip procedure highlighting late-war production simplifications.

Quick Summary

The Beretta 38/43 is an extremely rare Italian submachine gun featuring a unique underfolding stock and dual triggers for semi-auto (front) and full-auto (rear) fire. Its late-war production incorporated simplified bolt assembly, and the long magazine well doubles as a foregrip.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to the Beretta 38/43
  2. 01:50Visual Features and Markings
  3. 03:15Controls and Ergonomics
  4. 04:34Folding Stock and Disassembly
  5. 06:06Historical Context and Rarity

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the Beretta 38/43 a rare firearm?

The Beretta 38/43 is exceptionally rare due to its limited production, likely a small batch made in late 1943 or early 1944 for the Italian Socialist Republic. Despite later prototypes, this specific configuration never saw widespread adoption or mass production.

How does the Beretta 38/43's fire selection system work?

The Beretta 38/43 utilizes a dual-trigger system for fire selection. The front trigger is used to select and fire semi-automatic shots, while the rear trigger is dedicated to firing in full-automatic mode.

What are the key visual characteristics of the Beretta 38/43?

Key visual features include a heavy, fluted barrel with an integral two-port compensator, unique decorative font markings on the receiver ('P.M. - 38/43 - BERETTA'), an aluminum pistol grip, and a distinctive underfolding metal stock.

Can you field strip the Beretta 38/43?

Yes, the Beretta 38/43 can be field stripped. The process involves removing the magazine, disassembling the bolt assembly, and noting its late-war simplified design with a fixed firing pin and large recoil spring.

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