| Accession Number | RELAWM32006 |
|---|---|
| Collection type | Technology |
| Object type | Firearm |
| Physical description | Metal, Plastic |
| Maker |
Steyr Daimler Puch AG |
| Place made | Austria |
| Date made | 1941 |
| Conflict |
Second World War, 1939-1945 |
MP40 Submachine Gun: Captured by Lieutenant Kim Patterson RANVR
Description
The MP40 submachine gun is blowback operated weapon that fires from an open bolt. It fires in the full automatic role only. The weapon has a blued finish. The handguard is made from plastic and is located between the magazine housing and pistol grip. A folding shoulder stock results in a compact weapon when folded. Receiver top stamped MP40, bnz and 41. Dark brown plastic pistol and fore grip. It is fitted with a folding tubular steel butt. Complete with a detachable 32 round box magazine and a leather sling.
The bolt mechanism is missing.
History / Summary
This sub machine gun was commandeered by the donor Lt Kim (Kimball) George Patterson RANVR who was a prisoner of war in Germany. He was released by a British unit and joined them for a short period of time. The POW camp was Marlag und Milag Nord, Westertimke (Tarnstedt). With the advance of Allied forces toward Bremen the Germans ordered all prisoners to march to Lubeck. Lieut Patterson refused to do this, and escaped by hiding in a packing case.
The MP40 was a simplified version of the MP38, intended to reduce the time and expense of manufacture. It introduced modern methods of stampings and sub-assemblies which could be made by small subcontractors throughout Germany. The result was a highly practical and effective weapon.