Beretta M38/49 submachine gun

World War II brought many innovations in military technology, and among them was the Beretta M 38 submachine gun. This Italian weapon became a legend due to its exceptional features and ability to meet the demanding needs of the Italian army.

The Beretta M 38/49 submachine gun was developed by Pietro Beretta, an Italian arms manufacturer, and was produced between 1942 and 1950. The designer Tullio Marengoni set about modifying the existing M38 submachine gun to meet the new requirements of the army. The result was a compact submachine gun with a number of modifications that increased its effectiveness and reduced production costs. The submachine gun was of 9 mm calibre and had an overall length of 800 mm, with a barrel measuring 216 mm. The weight of the weapon was 3.26 kg, and 4.03 kg with a full magazine. The barrel had six right-hand grooves, which ensured a stable flight of the projectile. The muzzle velocity was 381 m/s, and the theoretical cadence was 550 rounds per minute. The Beretta submachine gun was massively exported after the end of the war, especially to countries such as Syria and Pakistan. Its reliability and performance made it a popular weapon even after the end of the Second War.

After the end of World War II, models known as the M38/49 were produced. These differed in their smooth barrel without ribbing and also in the lighter breech and shorter recoil spring. This variability allowed the weapon to be adapted to different needs and requirements.