Beretta M1938, 38/42, 38/44

The Beretta M38 (and subsequent varients)

The earliest prototype of the Beretta 38 was believed to have appeared around 1935, which had the characteristic cocking ring of the model 18/30. This prototype was believed to be called the Moschetto-mitragliatore extra leggero cal.9mm. It was said to have both semi and full auto capability. Eventually the MAB 38 was produced as a prototype and considered by most to be the official first prototype. Also made in 1935 it was referred to as the Modello 1935 although this designation was never official. It was just referred to as the MAB 38 prototype by Beretta. Initial production of the MAB 38 began in 1938, and was adopted by the Regio Esercito in July of that same year. The first order was placed in October of 1938 for 500 by the Polizia dell'Africa Italiana. During this time multiple variants appeared which ultimately became what is called the MAB 38/A. An unspecified number of 38/A's have been found with serial numbers ranging from R1 to R20000. These were ordered and delivered to Romania between 1939 and 1940. Putting the Italian army's order for the MAB 38/As behind schedule for 1940 to 1941. Production for the Italian forces continued throughout the war.

On September 8th, 1943, the Italian armed forces were reconstructed in northern Italy under German control, and many units were equipped with Beretta MAB 38. Production of the MAB became a priority and it was manufactured in great numbers. Issued to German elite units, and it became an iconic weapon. Later in the war, a simplified variant known as the MAB 38/44 was produced. The Beretta 38 was a popular weapon that would eventually find its way into the hands of virtually any soldier. It was especially sought after by officers and senior non-commissioned officers. Even allied troops who came across a MAB 83/44 would use them in their own units. Generally Submachine Guns became one of the most popular for combat use in the mid to late war. After World War II, the 38/44 continued in production in slightly revised form as the 38/49. These models had a cross bolt push button safety in the middle of the stock (the model 4). This design was changed to a automatic, push-button safety system located on the stock's finger groove for the model 5. The model 5 was produced for the Italian army and police post war, as well as several other countries until 1961. The Beretta M38 and all of its variants up to the M38/49 model 5 were well made combat submachine guns. Their service record on and off the battle field for reliability and effectiveness is a testament to this great and iconic submachine gun.