Madsen M50: From the Korean War to Star Trek
Forgotten Weapons・14 minutes read
The Danish M50 Madsen submachine gun, developed as a cheaper alternative post-World War Two, saw success and popularity in various regions, despite not being purchased by NATO or Warsaw Pact countries. Its unique design, reliability, and cost-effectiveness led to its prolonged production until the 1980s, with a contract-made version in .45 ACP known as the INA Model 953.
Insights
- The Danish M50 Madsen submachine gun, developed as a budget-friendly alternative to other models, gained popularity in regions like Southeast Asia and South America due to its unique design and cost-effectiveness, despite not being utilized by major military alliances like NATO or the Warsaw Pact.
- The Madsen M50, known for its distinctive features such as a clamshell design, folding stock, and grip safety, not only saw combat use in the Korean War but also found a niche in the film industry, particularly in sci-fi and fantasy genres, where its unfamiliar appearance provided a fresh alternative to more recognizable firearms, making it a favored choice for filmmakers seeking unique and cost-effective weapons for their productions.
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Recent questions
What is the history of the Madsen M50 submachine gun?
The Madsen M50 submachine gun was developed post-World War Two as a cost-effective alternative to other firearms. Inspired by the simplicity of Sten guns and M3 Grease Guns, the Danes created the Madsen M46, which led to the development of the M50 in 1950. The M50 gained popularity in Southeast Asia, Central America, and South America, as it was not purchased by NATO or Warsaw Pact countries. Despite being designed in 1950, the Madsen M50 remained in production until the 1980s due to its reliability and effectiveness.
What are the key features of the Madsen M50 submachine gun?
The Madsen M50 submachine gun features a clamshell design, weighs 7 pounds, uses 9mm Parabellum ammo, and has a 32-round magazine with a rate of fire of 500 RPM. The stock folds to the right side of the gun and is friction-fit, with a grip safety that must be held down to fire the gun. Disassembly involves removing the barrel nut, lifting out the barrel and bolt, and revealing a simple fire control system with an open bolt firing sear.
Where was the Madsen M50 submachine gun used in combat?
The Madsen M50 submachine gun saw combat use in the Korean War by Thai troops, where it proved to be reliable and cost-effective. Despite its design dating back to 1950, the Madsen M50 remained in production until the 1980s due to its effectiveness in combat situations.
Why did the Madsen M50 submachine gun gain popularity in the movie industry?
The Madsen M50 submachine gun gained popularity in the movie industry due to its unfamiliarity, making it a suitable choice for sci-fi or fantasy films where recognizable firearms could distract from the storyline. It was frequently used in Cold War-era movies and some Star Trek episodes, offering a unique and cost-effective option for filmmakers.
Was there a variation of the Madsen M50 submachine gun produced in Brazil?
Yes, a contract-made version of the Madsen M50 in .45 ACP, known as the INA Model 953, was produced in Brazil. This variation showcases the widespread presence and versatility of the Madsen M50 despite its lack of widespread recognition.
Related videos
Summary
00:00
Danish M50 Madsen Submachine Gun: History and Features
- The Danish M50 Madsen submachine gun was developed post-World War Two as a cheaper alternative to the Finnish Suomi submachine gun.
- Inspired by the simplicity of Sten guns and M3 Grease Guns, the Danes created the Madsen M46, a crude stamped submachine gun.
- The Madsen M46 was successful and led to the development of the M50 in 1950, which was demonstrated with 20,000 rounds fired in 2 hours and 17 minutes.
- The Madsen submachine guns were popular in Southeast Asia, Central America, and South America, as they were not purchased by NATO or Warsaw Pact countries.
- The Madsen M50 features a clamshell design, weighs 7 pounds, uses 9mm Parabellum ammo, and has a 32-round magazine with a rate of fire of 500 RPM.
- The stock folds to the right side of the gun and is friction-fit, with a grip safety that must be held down to fire the gun.
- Disassembly of the Madsen M50 involves removing the barrel nut, lifting out the barrel and bolt, and revealing a simple fire control system with an open bolt firing sear.
- The barrel has a feed ramp and notches for proper alignment, and reassembly involves setting the barrel, installing the bolt and recoil spring, and tightening the barrel nut.
- The Madsen M50 saw combat use in the Korean War by Thai troops, proving to be reliable and cost-effective.
- Despite being designed in 1950, the Madsen M50 remained in production until the 1980s due to its popularity and effectiveness.
13:46
"Forgotten Madsen M50: Hollywood's Sci-Fi Secret"
- The Madsen M50, a gun often overlooked, gained popularity in the movie industry due to its unfamiliarity, making it a suitable choice for sci-fi or fantasy films where recognizable firearms could distract from the storyline. It was frequently used in Cold War-era movies and some Star Trek episodes, offering a unique and cost-effective option for filmmakers.
- Additionally, a contract-made version of the Madsen M50 in .45 ACP, known as the INA Model 953, was produced in Brazil. This variation is further detailed in an article on ForgottenWeapons.com, showcasing the widespread presence and versatility of the Madsen M50 despite its lack of widespread recognition.
