This video segment from "American Rifleman Television" focuses on the French Model 1935A pistol. It details the French military's search for a new sidearm in the post-WWI era, culminating in the adoption of the 1935A, designed by Charles Petter. The video highlights its inspiration from John Moses Browning's Model 1911 and its own unique design elements. The segment also covers the pistol's brief service before the German occupation of France during WWII, where it was adopted by the Wehrmacht as the Pistole 625 F. It further touches upon the pistol's post-war production and its use in conflicts like the Indochina War, mentioning its influence on subsequent firearm designs.
This video delves into the Gnome et Rhône R-5, a French submachine gun developed after World War II as a copy of the British Sten. The R-5 was intended for the French Communist Party (PCF) but was intercepted by the Gaullist government. It featured a longer barrel, a wooden stock, and a Thompson-inspired vertical foregrip. While parts-interchangeable with the Sten MkII, it had unique features. Produced in limited numbers, the R-5 served as an interim weapon for French forces in domestic and colonial conflicts until worn out. The video highlights its rarity and access to a rare example for filming.
This video explores the history of Luger pistols assembled and used by the French after World War II. Following their occupation of the Mauser factory in Oberndorf, French troops began producing various firearms, including Lugers, for their own military needs. The video highlights the acceptance of Lugers as front-line handguns by the French Army, their use in early conflicts like Indochina, and their eventual transfer to second-line service and the Gendarmerie, where they remained in use until the 1970s. A batch was also later supplied to the Austrian Army. The content features examination of a 1st type and 3rd type French Luger.
This video showcases the Chatellerault FM 24/29 light machine gun, an often-overlooked firearm with a significant service history. The description highlights its early design, long operational lifespan in various French military conflicts, and key features like its bipod, 25-round magazines, front handguard, and dual trigger system for semi-automatic and automatic fire. The creator expresses curiosity about its handling and takes the weapon to the range for evaluation.
This video explores the French MAS-38 submachine gun, France's first officially adopted SMG, rushed into service in 1940. Despite its late arrival for the defense of France, it saw significant production under German occupation and post-war, primarily serving in Indochina. The description details its simple blowback mechanism, unique angled barrel and receiver for improved sight picture, and a trigger-based safety. It's chambered in the 7.65 French Long cartridge, a less powerful round that contributes to comfortable handling. The video also highlights the weapon's historical context and its use of a less common caliber.
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