Introduction to German Submachine Guns in World War II

The German military, during World War II, utilized a diverse range of submachine guns, each with its own unique characteristics and historical significance. These weapons played a crucial role in close-quarters combat and urban warfare, providing soldiers with the ability to engage enemies at short distances with high rates of fire. In this blog post, we will explore the various German submachine guns of WWII, delving into their designs, performances, and the impact they had on the battlefield.

MP 38 and MP 40: The Iconic German Submachine Guns

When discussing German submachine guns of WWII, it is impossible not to mention the MP 38 and its successor, the MP 40. These weapons, often referred to as “Machine Pistols,” were widely used by German forces and became iconic symbols of the era.

MP 38: The Precursor

The MP 38, or Maschinenpistole 38, was developed in the late 1930s as a more advanced and improved version of the MP 36. It featured a simplified design, making it easier and cheaper to produce, which was a priority for the German military at the time. With its sleek appearance and innovative features, the MP 38 quickly gained popularity among soldiers.

One of the key advantages of the MP 38 was its ergonomic design. The weapon had a wooden shoulder stock and a vertical fore grip, providing a comfortable and stable shooting platform. The magazine was inserted into the pistol grip, allowing for quick reloading. The MP 38 utilized a simple blowback operation, firing 9x19mm Parabellum rounds at a rate of approximately 500 rounds per minute.

MP 40: The Evolution

Building upon the success of the MP 38, the MP 40, or Maschinenpistole 40, was introduced as an upgraded version. The MP 40 retained many of the MP 38’s design elements but incorporated several improvements to enhance its overall performance.

One notable change was the introduction of a stamped steel body, which reduced production time and costs. The MP 40 also featured a simplified firing mechanism, making it even easier to manufacture. Additionally, the weapon’s sights were modified to improve accuracy at longer ranges.

The MP 40 became the standard-issue submachine gun for German forces during WWII. Its reliability, durability, and ease of use made it a favorite among soldiers. The weapon’s high rate of fire and accurate short-range performance made it ideal for urban combat and close-quarters engagements.

Other Notable German Submachine Guns

While the MP 38 and MP 40 are the most well-known German submachine guns of WWII, there were several other models that played significant roles on the battlefield.

MP 28/II: The Pre-War Veteran

The MP 28/II, or Maschinenpistole 28/II, was a German-made version of the famous Bergmann MP 18, which saw action during World War I. The MP 28/II was adopted by the German military in the late 1920s and remained in service throughout WWII.

This submachine gun utilized a delayed blowback system, offering increased accuracy and reliability. It fired 9x19mm Parabellum rounds at a rate of approximately 450 rounds per minute. The MP 28/II had a fixed wooden stock and a horizontal fore grip, providing a stable shooting platform.

Erma EMP: The Experimental Design

The Erma EMP, or Erma Maschinenpistole, was an experimental submachine gun developed by the Erma company. It featured a unique design with a rotating bolt and a side-mounted magazine. The EMP utilized 9x19mm Parabellum rounds and had a cyclic rate of fire of around 550 rounds per minute.

While the EMP showed promise, it never reached widespread production or saw significant use during WWII. Its complex design and higher production costs limited its adoption by the German military.

MKb Gerät 06: The Transitional Weapon

The MKb Gerät 06, or Maschinenkarabiner Gerät 06, was a transitional weapon between submachine guns and assault rifles. It was developed in response to the need for a more powerful and effective close-quarters weapon.

The MKb Gerät 06 utilized an intermediate cartridge, the 7.92x33mm Kurz, which offered increased range and penetration compared to the standard 9mm Parabellum. This weapon featured a fixed wooden stock and a side-folding bipod, making it versatile for various combat situations.

Performance and Impact on the Battlefield

German submachine guns of WWII had a significant impact on the battlefield, particularly in urban and close-quarters combat. Their high rate of fire and short-range accuracy allowed soldiers to engage enemies quickly and effectively.

The MP 38 and MP 40, in particular, became renowned for their reliability and ease of use. These weapons could be easily operated and maintained, even in harsh conditions. Their compact size and lightweight design made them highly mobile, allowing soldiers to maneuver swiftly in tight spaces.

The German military’s adoption of submachine guns also influenced the development of similar weapons by other nations. The success and popularity of German submachine guns during WWII led to the widespread adoption of these weapons by various militaries around the world.

Conclusion

German submachine guns of WWII, including the iconic MP 38 and MP 40, played a vital role in close-quarters combat and urban warfare. Their unique designs, reliability, and high rates of fire made them formidable weapons on the battlefield. From the MP 28/II to the experimental Erma EMP, each weapon contributed to the overall success and effectiveness of German forces during the war. Understanding the history and impact of these submachine guns provides valuable insights into the tactics and strategies employed by the German military during WWII.

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