What is a MAT-49?
The MAT-49 used a machine stamping process which allowed the economical production of large numbers of submachine guns, then urgently required by the French Government for use by Army, French Foreign Legion as well as airborne and colonial forces to meet the need of a compact weapon.
How much does a MAT 49 weigh?
Minus magazine, the MAT-49 weighs about 3.5 kilograms (7.7 pounds), which is heavy for a submachine gun. The weapon incorporates a grip safety which is located on the backside of the pistol grip. The rear sights are flip-up and “L”-shaped, and marked for a range of 50 and 100 meters (55 and 109 yd).
How many rounds does a MAT 49 fire?
The MAT-49 is blowback -operated and box magazine-fed, with a rate of fire of 600 rounds per minute on full auto. The MAT 49/54, a modified MAT-49s manufactured for police forces, had two triggers, allowing use of full-auto fire or single shots, but most were manufactured as full-auto only.
What kind of ammo does a MAT 49 use?
As issued, the MAT-49 fires a 9×19mm Parabellum cartridge, using a single-column 20-round magazine for desert use or 32-round similar to the Sten magazine. The MAT-49 is blowback -operated and box magazine-fed, with a rate of fire of 600 rounds per minute on full auto.
When was the MAT-49 paratrooper used?
Paratroopers of the 2e REP from the French Foreign Legion storming Kolwezi in 1978. The MAT-49 saw widespread combat use during the First Indochina War and the Algerian War, as well as the 1956 Suez Crisis.
Does the MAT 49 still exist?
Although the FAMAS assault rifle, a compact 5.56mm bullpup design, officially replaced the MAT-49 in the early 1980s, the honored subgun was not totally withdrawn from army service until 1998. It’s still found in former French allied armories as well in police hands. If playback doesn’t begin shortly, try restarting your device.