Bergmann MP 18

Theodor Bergmann Waffenbau · Submachine-Gun · Discontinued · 1918

Weight (empty)4180 g (147.4 oz)
Overall Length832 mm (32.76")
Barrel Length200 mm (7.87")
Magazine Capacity32 rounds
Action TypeBlowback
Firing MechanismOpen Bolt
Muzzle Velocity380 m/s (1247 fps)
Muzzle Energy538 J (397 ft·lbf)
Effective Range150 m (164 yd)
Frame MaterialSteel

Primary Caliber: 9x19mm Parabellum

The Bergmann MP 18 is a 9x19mm Parabellum submachine gun designed by Hugo Schmeisser and produced by Theodor Bergmann Waffenbau in Germany from 1918 to 1920. Widely regarded as the world's first practical submachine gun, it was developed to meet the German Army's demand for a compact, high-volume-of-fire weapon to equip Stormtroopers (Sturmtruppen) during the trench warfare of World War I. The MP 18 operates on a simple open-bolt blowback system and fires at a cyclic rate of approximately 500 ro...

Country of Origin: Germany

Designer: Hugo Schmeisser