Forgotten Weapons · Video summary
MAS SE 1935 SMG: Emblematic of French Interwar Gun Development
Forgotten Weapons visits the French National Forensics Police Department to examine an early MAS Model 1935 submachine gun, a prototype that led to the MAS-38.
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Ian McCollum of Forgotten Weapons had the rare opportunity to visit the French National Forensics Police Department, where he examined a fascinating piece of French military history: an early MAS Model 1935 submachine gun. This prototype offers a unique glimpse into the development of French small arms during the interwar period, ultimately leading to the adoption of the MAS-38.
The French Military's Post-WWI Renovation Plan
The story of the MAS-35 begins in 1921, when the French military initiated an ambitious plan to completely overhaul its small arms. Recognizing that most of their World War I weaponry was obsolete or consisted of short-term adaptations (like Spanish pistols), they sought to replace everything with modern, standardized weapons. This comprehensive renovation included new pistols, rifles (ideally semi-automatic), light machine guns, and, of course, submachine guns.
Keep reading in The Digest
The full 2-minute article, 3 more sections, and every new episode from Forgotten Weapons and the creators you follow.
- The Quest for a New Submachine Gun Caliber
- The Intended Role: A Personal Defense Weapon
- The MAS-35 Prototype and Interwar Stagnation
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