In this "Ask Ian" episode, Forgotten Weapons delves into the question of the "best" World War II rifle cartridge, considering both effectiveness and practicality. Ian argues that the 8mm Kurz (7.92x33mm) was the most optimized intermediate cartridge, ideal for semi-automatic and select-fire rifles due to its reduced recoil and sufficient power for fast follow-up shots. He also discusses the logistical challenge of using a single cartridge for both rifles and heavy machine guns, noting that larger cartridges were generally preferred for the latter. The discussion touches on the Italian 6.5mm Carcano and Swedish 6.5mm cartridges, as well as supplemental machine gun rounds like the 8x59mm Italian and 8x63mm Swedish. Ian posits that the 7.35mm Carcano would have been a strong contender for a universal cartridge and suggests the US would have benefited significantly from adopting it, potentially lightening rifles like the M1 Garand and BAR.
This video explores the Bern Prototype Carbine, an early 1920s experiment in intermediate cartridge technology designed by Adolf Furrer. It highlights the carbine's long recoil semi-automatic action and under-barrel tube magazine, a blend of historical and modern features. The discussion covers the experimental Swiss 7.65x27mm and 7.65x35mm cartridges, noting the evolution to spitzer bullets in later prototypes. The video also touches on Furrer's role as director of the WF Bern factory and the subsequent development and eventual rejection of the design by Swiss armed forces, including a post-WWII revisit before the adoption of the Stgw-57.
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