The M49 submachine gun is a Yugoslavian submachine gun chambered in 7.62×25mm Tokarev, designed for use with the Yugoslav People's Army. While externally similar to the PPSh-41, as well as being able to interchange magazines, the M49 is actually very different in both construction and design. More similar in nature to the Italian Beretta Model 38, the M49 features a one-piece tube receiver which contains the bolt, recoil spring and buffer mechanism.[1] Constructed of machined parts as well as simple tubing, the receiver assembly incorporates a ventilated barrel shroud to protect the operator from being burned during periods of rapid-fire, as well as a simple muzzle brake to steady the weapon.

Crvena Zastava Automat M49
Profile views of the M49 Submachine Gun
TypeSubmachine gun
Place of originSFR Yugoslavia
Service history
In service1951–1975 (officially,Yugoslav People's Army)
WarsVietnam War, Gulf War, Yugoslav Wars
Production history
ManufacturerCrvena Zastava
VariantsM49, M49/57
Specifications
Mass3.75 kg (8.27 lb)(without magazine)
Length870 mm (34.3 in)
Barrel length270 mm (10.6 in)

Cartridge7.62×25mm Tokarev
ActionStraight blowback, open bolt
Rate of fire750 rounds/min
Muzzle velocity488 m/s (1,600 ft/s)
Effective firing range200 m
Feed system35-round box magazine or 71-round drum magazine
SightsFront blade, flip-up rear iron sights

The M49 is a select fire weapon, with the selector switch being located immediately in front of the trigger, within the trigger guard.[2] The safety is of a push-button variety, which is located on the side of the stock forward of the trigger group. Unlike the later M56 Submachine gun, the M49 features a solid wood stock, similar in construction to that of the M48 Mauser rifle also in use at the time. The M49 is disassembled by unscrewing the cap on the rear of the receiver, permitting all of the internal parts to be extracted through the opening. The M49 and the later M49/57 variant are different only in minor details.

Users

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See also

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References

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  1. ^ Smith, Joseph E., Small Arms of the World, 9th Edition, Stackpole Books, (1969), p. 723
  2. ^ Defense Intelligence Agency, ST-HB-07-03-74, Small Arms Identification and Operation Guide - Eurasian Communist Countries, United States Army, (1974), p. 100
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