Top Secret WWII Machine Guns: The Norm and Welgun

Published on April 26, 2017
Duration: 7:55

This video provides an expert-level analysis of two unique WWII submachine guns developed by the SOE: the Norm gun and its successor, the Welgun. The speaker, demonstrating high authority, details their mechanical operations, design quirks, and historical context, highlighting why they ultimately did not see mass production due to cost and political factors, despite their innovative features.

Quick Summary

The Norm gun and Welgun were experimental 9mm submachine guns developed by the SOE during WWII. Designed by Eric Norman, they aimed for compactness and superiority over the Sten gun. However, high production costs and political factors prevented their mass adoption, with prototypes now residing at the Royal Armouries.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to SOE Small Arms
  2. 00:22The Norm Gun Overview
  3. 01:33Norm Gun Mechanical Operation
  4. 02:43Norm Gun Design Quirks
  5. 03:34The Welgun Development
  6. 04:12Welgun Improvements
  7. 05:11Welgun vs. Sten Gun
  8. 06:18Historical Significance

Frequently Asked Questions

What were the Norm gun and Welgun?

The Norm gun and Welgun were two unique 9mm submachine guns developed by Britain's Special Operations Executive (SOE) during WWII at Station 9. They were designed by Eric Norman to be compact and effective, though neither reached mass production due to cost and design considerations.

Why were the Norm gun and Welgun not mass-produced?

Despite their innovative designs and performance in trials, the Norm gun and Welgun were not mass-produced primarily because of their high manufacturing costs compared to simpler weapons like the Sten gun. Political friction between the SOE and established arms makers also played a role.

What were the key differences between the Norm gun and the Welgun?

The Welgun was a more rugged modification of the Norm gun, featuring a covered breech for better protection against elements and a dedicated safety/locking bar. While both operated from an open bolt, the Welgun aimed to improve upon the Norm gun's durability and usability.

Where can I see the Norm gun and Welgun prototypes?

The remaining prototypes of the Norm gun and Welgun are housed and preserved at the Royal Armouries in the United Kingdom, serving as important historical artifacts of WWII clandestine weapon development.

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