Breda PG Model 1935
Societa Italiana Ernesto Breda per Costruzioni Meccaniche (Breda Meccanica Bresciana) · Rifle · Out Of Production · 1935
Also known as: Breda Modello 1935 PG, Moschetto Automatico Breda PG, Fucile Mitragliatore Breda PG
Overview
The Breda PG Model 1935 was a rare Italian interwar gas-operated select-fire rifle designed by Sestilio Fiorini and built by Breda in Rome. Its best-known form was a 7x57mm Mauser export model sold to Costa Rica in 1935, which fired from an open bolt and offered semi-automatic, full-automatic and a novel four-round burst mode. It is widely credited as the first service rifle ever fitted with a burst-limiting mechanism, decades before that feature became mainstream. An Italian-trials version was chambered in 6.5x52mm Carcano, fired from a closed bolt and was semi-automatic only.
Specifications
| Weight (empty) | 5200 g (183.4 oz) |
| Barrel Length | 457 mm (17.99") |
| Action Type | Gas Operated Long Stroke |
| Trigger Type | Single Stage |
| Magazine Capacity | 20 rounds |
| Magazine Type | Detachable Box |
| Rate of Fire | 600 rpm |
| Frame Material | Steel |
| Barrel Material | Steel |
| Stock Material | Wood |
Calibers
- 7x57mm Mauser · primary — also known as 7mm Mauser, 7x57, .275 Rigby
Features
- Firing modes: Semi Automatic, Full Automatic
- Feed systems: Detachable Box Magazine
- Safety mechanisms: Burst Limiting Cutoff
- Features: Select Fire, Four Round Burst Limiter, Open Bolt Operation, Bayonet Lug, Adjustable Iron Sights
Service history
Operators
- Costa Rica · adopted 1935 · as Moschetto Automatico Breda PG
- Kingdom of Italy
Conflicts
- Costa Rican Civil War (1948)
- World War II (1939-1945)
Production
Estimated total produced: 800 · Production years: 1931-1935
Approximately 800 rifles produced in 7mm for Costa Rica (Modern Firearms cites ~400 delivered); the Italian 6.5mm version numbered only a few hundred at most
Origin
Country of origin: Italy
Designer: Sestilio Fiorini
Discontinued: 1935
Notes
Burst is four rounds (not three). Overall length, muzzle velocity, effective/max range and rifling for this specific rifle were not found in accessible sources and are left null. Production estimates vary: ~800 ordered for Costa Rica per Wikipedia/Forgotten Weapons, ~400 delivered per Modern Firearms.
Background
The Costa Rican Breda PG is cited as the first service rifle ever fitted with a burst-limiting device, cutting automatic fire after four rounds. Despite showing hints of the coming assault-rifle concept, its full-power 7x57mm cartridge and open-bolt design negated most practical advantages, and it was judged heavy, complicated and expensive, leaving it a rare curiosity.