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Drum-Fed LMG for Chinese Warlords: the Finnish LS-26/31

Forgotten Weapons
Published on November 8, 2025
Category: Tactical & Gear
Duration: 10:13

This guide details the installation and use of drum and box magazines for the Finnish LS-26/31 and related drum-fed variants. It covers the process for attaching the 75-round drum magazine and the use of a specialized adapter to enable standard box magazines on these modified receivers. A critical safety warning emphasizes unloading the firearm before any manipulation.

Tags

LS-26/31
LS-32
Lahti-Saloranta M/26
VKT
Finnish State Rifle Factory
Drum Magazine
Box Magazine
Magazine Adapter
Light Machine Gun
Finnish Small Arms
Export Variants
7.62x54R

Quick Summary

The Finnish LS-26/31 is a drum-fed variant of the Lahti-Saloranta M/26 LMG, developed by VKT for export. It offered a 75-round drum magazine option, though a specialized adapter allowed it to also use standard 20-round box magazines, providing flexibility for users.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to LS-26/31
  2. 00:30Origins of Lahti-Saloranta M/26
  3. 01:15Development of Drum-Fed Variants
  4. 03:10Magazine Comparison: Drum vs. Box
  5. 04:29Technical Modifications for Drum Feed
  6. 06:08Receiver Markings Examination
  7. 07:27Export to China and Cancellation
  8. 08:57Finnish Army Service and Conversion

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Finnish LS-26/31?

The LS-26/31 is a rare, drum-fed variant of the Finnish Lahti-Saloranta M/26 light machine gun, developed by VKT primarily for export. It features a recoil-operated action and was offered with various caliber options.

What were the magazine options for the LS-26/31?

The LS-26/31 could be fitted with a 75-round drum magazine for increased firepower or, using a specialized adapter, could still accept the standard 20-round box magazines associated with the M/26 LMG.

Why did Finland stop exporting LS-32 guns to China?

Finland halted shipments of approximately 30,000 LS-32 guns to China in 1937 due to diplomatic pressure from Japan, resulting in only about 1,200 units being delivered before the contract was effectively canceled.

How did the Finnish Army use the LS-32 during the Winter War?

During the Winter War, the Finnish Army deployed remaining LS-32 units. Once their limited supply of drum magazines was exhausted, these weapons were often converted back to use standard box magazines for continued service.

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