The Reising was an American submachine gun patented in 1940. The two versions of the weapon produced during World War 2 were the M50 and the simplified M55. Over 10,000 guns were ordered, primarily by the United States Navy, though some went to the Canadian and Soviet forces.

The M50 Reising

Design

There were several differences between the M50 and the M55. Asides from simplification for manufacture; the M55 was lighter, shorter, used a folding stock, eliminated the flash suppressor and had a reduced rate of fire.

The Reising held two advantages over other submachine guns in US service. It was very light, and quite accurate. Both of these strengths are due to its intricate closed-bolt design.

Unfortunately, such a complicated weapon was unsuitable for the harsh battle conditions found in the Pacific, and the weapon earned a dismal performance reputation. Reportedly, many marines would throw the weapon away upon finding just about anything else.

The Reising was quite successful as a law enforcement weapon though, and after the war Reising used the M50 design as the basis for their M60 carbine.

Specifications

M50

• Caliber: .45 ACP (11.35 by 23 mm)
• Muzzle velocity: 280 m/s (820 ft/s)
• Overall length: 959 mm (37.7 in)
• Barrel length: 279 mm (11 in)
• Weight: 3.1 kg (6.83 lb) unloaded
• Rate of fire: 550 rounds per minute
• Magazine capacity: 12 or 20 rounds

M55

• Caliber: .45 ACP (11.35 by 23mm)
• Muzzle velocity: 280 m/s (820 ft/s)
• Overall length: 787 mm (31 in)
• Barrel length:
• Weight: 2.8 kg (6.2 lb) unloaded
• Rate of fire: 500 rounds per minute
• Magazine capacity: 12 or 20 rounds

External links

• Security Arms