MAS 49/56

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	Weapon: MAS 49/56 Type: Infantry Rifle Country of Origin: France Year Adopted: 1957 Overall Length (mm): 1020.0 Overall Length (in): 40.16 Weight (kg): 4.00 Weight (pounds): 8.82

The MAS 49/56 is a French semi-automatic rifle that was an evolution of the earlier MAS 49. Chambered in 7.5x54mm French, the rifle was designed to replace the MAS 36 in French service. The MAS 49/56 featured a gas-operated system with a 10-round detachable magazine, providing French soldiers with a more modern, self-loading weapon that was well-suited to post-World War II combat.

Adopted in the 1950s, the MAS 49/56 was used by French forces during several colonial conflicts, including the Algerian War and the Suez Crisis. It was highly regarded for its accuracy and reliability, especially in the harsh conditions of North Africa and Southeast Asia. The rifle's compact size and durability made it ideal for mobile infantry units operating in difficult terrain.

The MAS 49/56 remained in service until the 1980s when it was replaced by the FAMAS assault rifle. Today, it is a popular firearm among collectors, admired for its craftsmanship and historical significance, particularly as one of the last major French military rifles before the transition to assault rifles.