The Swiss Suomi: MP43/44 (With Bayonet)

Published on March 19, 2025
Duration: 6:57

This expert review details the Swiss MP43/44, a licensed variant of the Finnish Suomi submachine gun. The video highlights its historical adoption by Switzerland, key technical differences from the original Finnish design such as unique markings, a simplified sight, aluminum buttplate, and the notable addition of a bayonet lug. It also covers the primary magazine type and production history, noting its service life until the 1980s.

Quick Summary

The Swiss MP43/44 is a licensed variant of the Finnish Suomi submachine gun, produced by Hispano-Suiza. Key Swiss modifications include unique markings, a simplified 100m/200m flip sight, an aluminum buttplate, and a bayonet lug for K31 bayonets. It primarily used 50-round quad-stack magazines and served with the Swiss military until the 1980s.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to the Swiss MP43/44
  2. 00:35Historical Context and Adoption
  3. 01:14Procurement and Licensed Production
  4. 03:02Technical Differences: Markings and Sights
  5. 03:57Unique Swiss Features (Bayonet Lug, Buttplate)
  6. 05:00Magazines and Accessories
  7. 05:53Production Numbers and Service Life

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Swiss MP43/44?

The Swiss MP43/44 is a submachine gun produced under license in Switzerland, based on the Finnish Suomi KP/-31 design. It was manufactured by Hispano-Suiza and featured several modifications for Swiss military service.

What are the key differences between the Swiss MP43/44 and the Finnish Suomi?

The Swiss MP43/44 has distinct Hispano-Suiza markings, a simplified two-position flip sight (100m/200m), an aluminum buttplate, and a bayonet lug, differentiating it from the original Finnish tangent-sighted Suomi.

What type of magazines did the Swiss MP43/44 use?

The Swiss MP43/44 primarily used 50-round quad-stack 'coffin' magazines. Specialized leather pouches were designed to carry these magazines along with a loading tool.

When was the Swiss MP43/44 produced and how long was it in service?

Hispano-Suiza produced over 22,000 MP43/44 submachine guns between 1945 and 1951. The weapon remained in active service with the Swiss military until the 1980s.

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