Beretta Model 38
Beretta · Submachine Gun · Discontinued · 1938
Also known as: MAB 38, Moschetto Automatico Beretta Modello 1938, Modello 38A
Overview
The Beretta Model 38 (Moschetto Automatico Beretta Modello 1938, MAB 38) is an Italian submachine gun designed by Tullio Marengoni and adopted by the Royal Italian Army in 1938. Chambered in 9x19mm Parabellum and fed from a 40-round magazine, it featured a robust tubular steel receiver, a perforated barrel jacket, a full wooden stock, and a distinctive dual-trigger system in which the front trigger fired semi-automatic and the rear trigger fired fully automatic. Widely regarded as one of the best submachine guns of the Second World War for its accuracy, reliability, and build quality.
Specifications
| Weight (empty) | 4200 g (148.2 oz) |
| Overall Length | 946 mm (37.24") |
| Barrel Length | 315 mm (12.40") |
| Action Type | Blowback |
| Firing Mechanism | Open Bolt |
| Trigger Type | Dual Trigger |
| Magazine Capacity | 40 rounds |
| Magazine Type | Detachable Box |
| Muzzle Velocity | 420 m/s (1378 fps) |
| Muzzle Energy | 657 J (485 ft·lbf) |
| Effective Range | 200 m (219 yd) |
| Rate of Fire | 600 rpm |
| Barrel Rifling | Right Hand |
| Number of Grooves | 6 |
| Frame Material | Steel |
| Slide Material | Steel |
| Barrel Material | Steel |
| Stock Material | Wood |
| Finish | Blued |
Calibers
- 9x19mm Parabellum · primary — also known as 9mm Luger, 9mm NATO, 9x19mm
Features
- Firing modes: Semi Automatic, Full Automatic
- Feed systems: Detachable Box Magazine
- Safety mechanisms: Manual Safety, Grip Safety
- Features: Wooden Stock, Perforated Barrel Jacket, Dual Trigger Fire Selection, Folding Bayonet Lug
Variants
- Beretta Model 38/42 — Simplified Wartime
- Beretta Model 38/44 — Simplified Wartime
Service history
Operators
- Royal Italian Army · adopted 1938 · as MAB 38
- Wehrmacht · adopted 1943 · as MP 738(i)
Conflicts
- World War II (1939-1945)
Production
Production years: 1938-1950
Produced in large numbers across the 38A and simplified 38/42, 38/43 and 38/44 wartime models; remained in service well after the war.
Origin
Country of origin: Italy
Designer: Tullio Marengoni
Discontinued: 1950
Notes
The dual-trigger arrangement allowed instant selection between semi-automatic and full-automatic fire without a separate selector switch. Successive wartime variants (38/42, 38/43, 38/44) progressively simplified manufacture by removing the barrel jacket and shortening the barrel.
Background
Captured MAB 38s were highly prized by both Allied and German troops, who considered the Beretta one of the finest submachine guns of the war owing to its accuracy and craftsmanship.