Italy's M14: The BM-59 at the Range

Published on April 3, 2023
Duration: 5:14

This guide details the proper handling and firing techniques for the Beretta BM-59, particularly its folding stock and bipod configurations. Expert instruction from Ian McCollum highlights the critical safety measure of ensuring the folding stock is fully locked to prevent collapse during recoil. The video demonstrates its use in semi-auto and full-auto, noting muzzle climb challenges, and its potential as an 'emergency light machine gun' when deployed with the bipod.

Quick Summary

The Beretta BM-59, an Italian evolution of the M1 Garand, features a select-fire capability, folding stock, bipod, and muzzle compensator. While offering improvements over the M1 Garand and some aspects of the M14, it exhibits significant muzzle climb in full-auto fire. A critical safety warning emphasizes fully locking the folding stock before firing to prevent collapse under recoil.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to the BM-59
  2. 00:50Folding Stock Mechanics & Safety
  3. 01:20Semi-Auto and Full-Auto Testing
  4. 03:20Bipod and Light Machine Gun Role
  5. 04:35Conclusion

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key features of the Beretta BM-59 tested?

The Beretta BM-59 tested features a gas-operated, select-fire action, a folding stock, an integrated bipod, and a muzzle compensator/grenade launcher. It is chambered in 7.62x51mm NATO and has a 20-round capacity.

What safety warning is crucial for the BM-59's folding stock?

A critical safety warning for the BM-59's folding stock is that it must be fully deployed and locked into position before firing. If not locked, it can collapse under recoil, posing a significant hazard to the shooter.

How does the BM-59 perform in full-auto fire?

During full-auto fire, the BM-59 exhibits significant muzzle climb, making it difficult to maintain accuracy on target, even with its muzzle compensator. It's described as a handful to shoot in this mode.

What role can the BM-59 serve with its bipod?

When used with its integrated bipod in a prone position, the BM-59 can function as an 'emergency light machine gun,' similar in concept to the FG-42, though limited by its magazine capacity and barrel profile.

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