Intro
Discover the iconic Smith & Wesson M76, a submachine gun with a rich history. Learn about its development, features, and impact on firearms. Get insider knowledge on this rare and collectible firearm, including its origins, specs, and what makes it a prized possession among gun enthusiasts and collectors.
The Smith & Wesson M76 is a fascinating firearm with a rich history, and for gun enthusiasts, collectors, and historians, it offers a unique blend of military functionality and civilian charm. Here are five interesting facts about the Smith & Wesson M76 that highlight its design, purpose, and impact:
Design and Purpose
The Smith & Wesson M76 was designed to fulfill a specific military requirement for a submachine gun. In the early 1960s, Smith & Wesson, in collaboration with the Swedish company Interarmco, developed this firearm. The M76's design was heavily influenced by the Carl Gustav M/45, a Swedish submachine gun used by the Swedish military. The primary goal was to create a reliable, easy-to-handle firearm suitable for military and law enforcement use.
Operating Mechanism and Features
The Smith & Wesson M76 operates on a straight blowback principle, utilizing a recoil-operated, select-fire design. It features a folding stock, which allows the firearm to be easily stored and transported. The M76 accepts 20- and 32-round magazines and is capable of firing.9mm Parabellum ammunition at a rate of 720 rounds per minute. The inclusion of a three-position safety switch and a magazine disconnect adds to the firearm's usability and safety.
Production and Distribution
Between 1967 and 1974, Smith & Wesson produced approximately 6,000 M76 submachine guns. These firearms were primarily intended for export and were shipped to various countries, including Portugal, which used them during the Portuguese Colonial War. Additionally, some M76s were sold to civilian collectors and enthusiasts in the United States, following the appropriate National Firearms Act (NFA) regulations.
Collector Significance and Value
For collectors, the Smith & Wesson M76 represents a unique and relatively rare firearm. Its limited production run and association with the Swedish Carl Gustav M/45 make it an attractive addition to any military or firearms collection. Depending on the condition, originality, and provenance of the firearm, the value of a Smith & Wesson M76 can range from a few thousand dollars to over $10,000.
Legacy and Impact
Although the Smith & Wesson M76 did not achieve widespread military adoption, it has had a lasting impact on the firearms community. As a testament to the innovation and adaptability of Smith & Wesson, the M76 serves as a bridge between the company's traditional revolver designs and their subsequent ventures into the realm of semi-automatic and select-fire firearms.
Smith & Wesson M76 Image Gallery
What is the Smith & Wesson M76?
+The Smith & Wesson M76 is a submachine gun designed by Smith & Wesson in the 1960s. It was influenced by the Swedish Carl Gustav M/45 and was intended for military and law enforcement use.
How many Smith & Wesson M76s were produced?
+Between 1967 and 1974, approximately 6,000 Smith & Wesson M76 submachine guns were produced.
What makes the Smith & Wesson M76 valuable to collectors?
+The Smith & Wesson M76 is a relatively rare firearm, and its value to collectors comes from its limited production run, unique design, and association with the Swedish Carl Gustav M/45.
We hope this article has provided you with a deeper understanding and appreciation for the Smith & Wesson M76. Whether you are a firearms enthusiast, collector, or historian, this unique submachine gun offers a fascinating glimpse into the world of military and law enforcement firearms. If you have any further questions or comments, please feel free to share them below.