Vesely V-42
Josef Vesely (private prototype) · Submachine Gun · Prototype · 1942
Also known as: Vesely Machine Carbine, Vesely V-41, Vesely V-43
Overview
The Vesely V-42 was a British prototype 9x19mm blowback selective-fire submachine carbine designed by Czech emigre Josef Vesely, notable for its high-capacity tandem twin-column magazine that fed roughly 60 rounds. A patented interlock lever held the rear column out of the bolt's path until the front column emptied, then released it to feed sequentially. The design tested well at RSAF Enfield but the Royal Navy found the action too violent, and it offered too little advantage over the in-production Sten to justify adoption.
Specifications
| Action Type | Blowback |
| Magazine Capacity | 60 rounds |
| Magazine Type | Detachable Box |
| Rate of Fire | 950 rpm |
| Barrel Rifling | Right Hand |
| Frame Material | Steel |
| Barrel Material | Steel |
| Stock Material | Wood |
Calibers
- 9x19mm Parabellum · primary · 9mm NATO — also known as 9mm Luger, 9mm NATO, 9x19mm
Features
- Firing modes: Semi Automatic, Full Automatic
- Feed systems: Dual Tandem Box Magazine
- Safety mechanisms: Manual Safety
- Features: Tandem Dual Column Magazine, Magazine Interlock Lever, Integral Folding Bayonet, Adjustable Tangent Sights
Production
Production years: 1942-1943
Privately built prototypes only; never entered series production
Origin
Country of origin: United Kingdom
Designer: Josef Vesely
Discontinued: 1943
Notes
Dimensions, weight and muzzle velocity are undocumented in accessible sources. The V-42 carried two tandem 30-round columns (60 total); the earlier V-40 held 64 in two 32-round columns. The V-43 paratroop variant field-stripped into three pieces.
Background
Designed in wartime Britain by Czech refugee Josef Vesely, who fled the German occupation and self-funded his prototype in 1942, the gun's signature was a tandem twin-column 60-round magazine with a patented interlock lever that fed the rear stack only after the front emptied - exceptional capacity for the era.