This video features a range session with an Australian Austen MkII submachine gun, a rare firearm produced at the end of World War II. The description highlights that only a couple hundred were made. The Austen MkII is presented as an evolution of the Mk I, which itself was an adaptation of the British Sten gun using die-cast components. The range outing concludes with an out-of-battery discharge, a notable event. The description also links to other Forgotten Weapons videos, including one at the British Royal Armouries featuring the Mk II and another range video with the Mk I Austen.
This video examines the Austen Mk I SMG, an Australian submachine gun developed during World War II. Facing a potential invasion and a lack of existing submachine guns, Australia initially received Sten MkII technical data from Britain but found it underwhelming. Australian manufacturers then sought to improve the design, incorporating elements from the German MP38, such as its sealed telescoping recoil spring and underfolding stock, and adding a pair of pistol grips for better handling. Despite this, the Austen suffered from manufacturing delays and reliability issues, unlike the concurrently developed Owen SMG. Ultimately, fewer Austen Mk I submachine guns (19,914) were produced compared to the Owen, and it was withdrawn from combat by August 1944.
You've reached the end! 2 videos loaded.
