This video showcases a rare FN49 rifle variant specifically contracted for the Belgian Congo's Force Publique. It details the rifle's history, production numbers, caliber (.30-06), and its role in the region's history, including its use during the Congolese civil war and by Indonesian troops during the UN mission to Katanga. The video highlights the rifle's scarcity in Western collections due to its dispersal in Central Africa and thanks the Royal Museum of the Armed Forces and Military History in Brussels for access.
This video delves into the Vigneron M2, Belgium's post-World War II submachine gun designed by Colonel Georges Vigneron. Adopted in 1954 by the Belgian military, it served as a replacement for the Sten gun. The M2 is a simple, blowback-operated SMG noted for its affordability and effectiveness. Key features include a 3-position safety/selector switch and a grip safety. While the M2 was a minor update to the M1, primarily concerning the sights, over 100,000 were produced and remained in service until the 1990s. The video highlights its reliability and positive reception despite its economical design.
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