SM-9

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SM-9
Type Machine pistol
Place of origin  Guatemala
Service history
Used by See Users
Production history
Designer V. Cellini
Manufacturer Cellini-Dunn IMG
Military Research Corp
Wildfire Munitions
Produced 1985-1986
Variants SM-9
SM-90 Phantom
Specifications
Weight 2.3kg

Cartridge 9×19mm Parabellum
Caliber 9mm
Action Blowback-operated
Rate of fire 1200rpm
Muzzle velocity 1280 fps (390 mps)
Feed system 36-round detatchable box magazine
Sights Iron sights

The SM-9 is a machine pistol of Guatemalan origin and manufactured by Cellini-Dunn. It is blowback operated, firing from an open bolt fed from 36-round magazines inserted into a pistol grip The layout of the receiver is somewhat simpler than that of a Sten with its internal components light in weight enabling a very high rate of fire. Its removable forward pistol grip not only holds spare magazines but can be rotated 45 and 90 degrees for left/right handed operators as well as handling the weapon when firing.

Development

The SM-9 is a firearm which may be used in either full automatic or semiautomatic mode. More particularly, the present invention relates to a submachine gun which is capable of being fired in either automatic or semiautomatic operation and having features which are well suited to meet current specialized defence needs.

In the field of automatic and semiautomatic weapons for use by security forces units as well as the modern day soldier, there has been a need for a weapon which has a fast reaction time and is also ultra light and easily controllable. The close ranges which are frequently encountered today in both the urban and jungle environments have reduced the available reaction time so much that conventional systems for switching between automatic and semiautomatic fire are not adequate. Thus there has arisen a need for a compact and rugged automatic submachine gun having features which are well suited for close combat while also providing the mobility and lightweight freedom of a conventional sidearm. The SM-9 is a versatile weapon which is lightweight, capable of holding a large amount of ammunition, and with features such as instinctive fire controls and a trouble free loading system which result as a weapon having superior capabilities as a counterterrorist, counterguerilla, urban operations weapon for police or military use.

Overview

The SM-9 is a submachine gun which can fire in semi or full automatic. The SM-9 is provided with a front sear, a front trigger and a rear sear/trigger in a construction which allows the operator to instantly change between the semi and full automatic mode without a selector switch, even when firing. Other features include capability for ambidextrous operation, the use of two magazines each located in a foregrip and an improved muzzle brake configuration. In addition, an improved ejector and magazine catch assembly are provided. The SM-9 uses fewer moving parts so as to require no pins or screws for the trigger, sear, bolt guide or bolt stop.

The SM-9 provides an improved automatic firearm having features which include instinctive fire control, a layout that comes with a unique arrangement of front sear and trigger with a rear sear/trigger to allow the operator to instantly change between the semi and fully automatic mode without a selector switch, even while firing.

The ergonomics of the SM-9 is totally ambidextrous for a right or left handed user has complete access to all of the weapon operating controls. This feature has been achieved by placing the charging handle and both magazine catches on the longitudinal center axis and constructing the foregrip to rotate up to 90° in either direction. Such a construction also provides a more comfortable foregrip and permits the weapon to be fired blind behind a right or left hand corner while maintaining positive control. Also, in less than one minute, the front hand grip can be removed without tools, transforming the firearm into a semi or fully automatic pistol which is easily concealed for executive or dignitary protection.

The SM-9, employs a unique merger of fewer moving parts, requires no pins or screws for the trigger, sear, bolt guide or bolt stop, thus resulting in fewer operational problems. Due to the particular construction of the SM-9, even if the front sear, front trigger and charging handle were all to be damaged so as to require removal, it would still be possible to fire the weapon, fully controlled, in full automatic mode, with the operator using a finger to cock the bolt, after which it can fire with the rear trigger. In addition, the barrel, barrel nut and muzzle brake are provided in the form of an integral one-piece assembly that allows instant barrel replacement. Thus the entire weapon can be field stripped in a short period of time without the use of tools.

The SM-9 comes with dual magazines, with the active magazine insert in the pistol grip which provides firm support for the magazine. A second magazine is stored in the foregrip, allowing rapid magazine exchanges, especially at night, using the principle of "hand finds hand". In one embodiment, each magazine contains 32 rounds, thus providing an unprecedented amount of ammunition within the weapon. The magazines can be loaded by hand without the inconvenience of speed loaders.

The futuristic appearance of the SM-9 is the result of specific construction features which provide functional superiority. Thus the tubular receiver, flush sides, rounded upper body and built-in heat sinks of the firearm all contribute to improved operation. In addition, the smooth sleek construction of the SM-9 results in no protruding parts which can snag fabric or vegetation. The short overall length of the firearm was obtained by telescoping the bolt around the barrel. The light weight of the SM-9, which in one embodiment is only 4.3 pounds (1.95 kg) without magazines, makes it one of the lightest weapons of its type. The SM-9 produces a muzzle velocity of 1280 fps (390 mps) using 9×19mm ammunition, firing at a rate of 1200 rpm. Also to note, the front sear of the SM-9 is stronger and highly durable than any known in use today.[citation needed]

References