The high-quality if-impractical Beretta Model 38/42. By Staff Writer
The Beretta Model 38/42 tried to build upon the Beretta Model 38A, which proved to be too expensive to produce in a wartime environment. The Model 38/42 was an attempt to fix a few minor defects and still create a high quality submachine gun at a lower cost.
The Model 38/42 featured a shortened barrel and even two triggers, one for single fire and the other for automatic fire. Essentially, the Model 38/42 was still the Model 38A in disguise, thus the same issue with expensive production practices arose.
Axis command also did not see a need to force the use of the 9mm Parabellum ammunition, which would have forced frontline units to use both the standard rifle ammunition for one weapon and the 9mm Parabellum for this submachine gun. Thusly, it was deemed highly impractical on yet another count. However, Model 38/42's were still issued to Italian, German and Romanian troops across various fronts.
The Beretta Model 38/42 featured a muzzle velocity of 1,250 ft/sec (381 m/sec).
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1942
Designation:Beretta Model 38/42 Classification Type:Submachine Gun Manufacturer:Beretta Firearms - Italy Country of Origin: Italy
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