Mass production of submachine gun MP-40 was launched in Germany in 1940 with the aim of simplifying the design of the predecessor MP-38 and reducing the labor intensity of assembly for the needs of the Wehrmacht. This machine gun became the world's first serial model of small arms, in the manufacture of which stamping from steel sheets was widely used, which made it possible to drastically reduce production time and metal consumption. The main difference from previous models was the collapsible receiver and the absence of milled parts, which directly affected the reliability of the mechanism in field conditions.
Designer Heinrich Vollmer modernized the bolt group by introducing a telescopic recoil spring that covered the guide rod, which reduced the overall length of the weapon when folded. Simplified technology allowed the production of tens of thousands of units monthly at various factories, including Erfurt and Steyr, providing the front with the necessary number of automatic weapons. Understanding what the MP-40 is is impossible without analyzing its role as a symbol of mechanized warfare, which required a high rate of fire and compactness for tank crews and paratroopers.
History of creation and prerequisites for modernization
The development of a new model was carried out in response to the needs of the German army for cheaper and more technologically advanced weapons than those existing at that time MP-38. The original model, although revolutionary for its time, still contained elements that required complex machining on machines, which became a bottleneck in mass production. Company engineers Erfurter Maschinenfabrik the production cycle had to be completely revised, abandoning labor-intensive operations in favor of stamping.
The most important step was changing the design of the bolt cocking handle and the magazine release, which improved the ergonomics of handling the weapon. The key point history was the decision to introduce a folding metal stock, which not only saved space during transportation, but also served as additional support when shooting. This decision was dictated by the experience of use in motorized units, where the dimensions of the weapon were critical.
Serial production made it possible to quickly saturate the troops with new weapons, which received the unofficial but widespread name “Schmeisser”, although Hugo Schmeisser himself was not directly involved in the development of this particular model. Mass production led to the emergence of many modifications and designs, which differed in markings and minor changes in details.
Technical innovations of the design
Unlike the MP-38, the MP-40 had a redesigned magazine neck and added longitudinal grooves on the magazine neck to prevent dust from entering. The butt neck was also strengthened.
Design features and mechanism structure
The basis of automation MP-40 is the principle of operation due to the recoil of the free shutter, which is typical for pistol cartridges of 9 mm caliber. The bolt group is made in the form of a massive part that covers the breech of the barrel, which provides the necessary inertia to lock the barrel at the moment of firing. The return spring is located inside the bolt, which significantly reduces the dimensions of the receiver.
- 🔫 The receiver is made of stamped steel and consists of two parts connected by rivets and pins, which simplifies repair and replacement of components.
- 📏 The cocking handle is located on the left and is not rigidly fixed to the bolt, which reduces the risk of injury when operating the mechanism, but requires careful handling.
- 🎯 Sights include a front sight and rear sight designed for effective shooting out to 200 meters, although the actual effective range is often less.
Particular attention should be paid to the magazine system, which uses sector magazines with a capacity of 32 rounds. Receiver neck has characteristic longitudinal ribs that not only strengthen the structure, but also make it easier to insert the magazine in conditions of poor visibility or stress. The cartridge feeding mechanism is considered one of the most reliable among analogues of that time, although it is demanding on the quality of ammunition.
Performance characteristics
TTX analysis shows that MP-40 was created as a melee weapon with an emphasis on high rate of fire and controllability. The weight of the weapon without cartridges was about 4 kg, which made it light enough for long-term carry, but at the same time provided enough weight to reduce recoil when firing automatically. The initial velocity of the bullet varied between 380-400 m/s depending on the length of the barrel and the type of ammunition.
| Parameter | Meaning | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Caliber | 9×19 mm Parabellum | NATO standard |
| Length with stock folded | 630 mm | Compactness |
| Length with stock unfolded | 833 mm | Full size |
| Rate of fire | 500-600 rounds/min | Technical rate of fire |
| Magazine capacity | 32 rounds | Sector store |
A rate of fire of 500-600 rounds per minute was considered optimal for controlling weapons in automatic mode, allowing targeted fire in bursts. Effective range The shooting range was about 100-150 meters, after which the bullet quickly lost energy and accuracy. Low muzzle pressure made it possible to use relatively short barrels without significant loss of ballistic characteristics.
To preserve the life of the weapon, it is recommended to fire in short bursts of 2-5 shots, which also increases the accuracy of hits.
Operation and combat use
In real combat conditions MP-40 proved to be a reliable weapon, although it had a number of specific maintenance requirements. The main advantage was its compactness, which made it possible to effectively use the machine gun in an urban environment, forests and inside armored vehicles. The soldiers appreciated the ability to quickly raise their weapons and open fire, but noted the sensitivity of the mechanism to contamination with fine sand and dirt.
⚠️ Warning: The use of poor-quality lubricant or abrasive particles entering the bolt mechanism could lead to delays in firing, requiring immediate disassembly and cleaning.
Application experience has shown that the assault rifle is most effective in the hands of trained soldiers who are able to control recoil and ammunition consumption. High rate of fire quickly emptied the magazine, so fire discipline was critical. In the hands of paratroopers and tank crews, the weapon became a formidable means of self-defense and close combat.
☑️ Checking the readiness of the MP-40 for battle
Comparison with analogues and modifications
Comparing MP-40 with the Soviet PPSh-41 or American Tommy Gun, one can note differences in the philosophy of creation. If the Soviet analogue relied on low cost and a huge magazine capacity (71 rounds in the drum), the German engineering approach focused on manufacturability and ergonomics. American counterparts were often heavier and more complex to manufacture, using more milled parts.
There were various modifications, including MP-40/I, which was equipped with an additional magazine chute for quickly changing magazines, but this version did not gain mass distribution due to its complexity and weight. Versions with suppressors for special forces were also produced, but their effectiveness was limited. Differences in markings on the receiver made it possible to identify the manufacturer and year of manufacture.
- 🏭 Erfurt - one of the main manufacturing plants, marked "aurx".
- 🏭 Steyr - Austrian production, known for high quality assembly.
- 🏭 Haenel - a company associated with Hugo Schmeisser, also involved in the production of components.
Some modifications involved the installation of optical sights or devices for silent shooting, but they were experimental in nature. The main mass version remained the classic MP-40 with no significant changes to the basic design throughout the war.
The main advantage of the MP-40 over its competitors was the perfect balance between technological advances and combat effectiveness in close combat.
Myths and common misconceptions
Around MP-40 Many legends have developed, one of which talks about his ability to pierce helmets and armor plates. In reality, the 9 mm Parabellum bullet does not have enough energy to guarantee penetration of a steel helmet at a distance of more than 50 meters, although at close ranges the risk was high. Armor-piercing cartridges existed, but were rare and were not in mass service.
⚠️ Warning: The popular belief that the MP-40 could fire 100-round bursts without delay is an exaggeration; Overheating of the barrel and wear of the mechanism occurred quickly.
Another myth concerns the name "Schmeisser". Hugo Schmeisser was indeed a talented designer, but he was indirectly related to the creation of the MP-40, working on other projects. The name stuck to the weapon due to the wide popularity of the designer’s name in the circles of gunsmiths of that time. Heinrich Volmer is considered to be the real author of the design.
Why was the MP-40 called "Schmeisser"?
This name was assigned to the machine gun by the Allied troops and in post-war literature due to confusion with the name of the famous German gunsmith Hugo Schmeisser. Although his company C.G. Haenel produced components, the author of the MP-40 is Berthold Goepel and Heinrich Vollmer. Schmeisser became famous for developing the MP-18 and later models, such as the StG-44.
Was the MP-40 used after the war?
Yes, captured MP-40s were actively used by the armies of many countries after 1945, including the USSR, France and third world countries. The reliability and availability of 9 mm cartridges allowed these machines to be used for decades. In some countries they were in service with police and special forces until the end of the 20th century.
Can you buy an MP-40 today?
Original samples are collectible weapons and their purchase/sale is strictly regulated by the laws of most countries. There are civilian semi-automatic copies produced by modern companies, which are structurally identical to the original, but lack the ability to fire automatically.