Karl Gustavs M45

Go Back to Submachine Gun

	Weapon: Karl Gustavs M45 Type: Submachine Gun Country of Origin: Sweden Year Adopted: 1945 Overall Length (mm): 808.0 Overall Length (in): 31.81 Weight (kg): 3.50 Weight (pounds): 7.72

The Karl Gustavs M45, also known as the Swedish K, is a submachine gun developed by Sweden in the late 1940s. Chambered in 9x19mm Parabellum, it was designed to replace older submachine guns used by the Swedish Army. The M45 was praised for its simplicity, reliability, and ease of maintenance. Its blowback-operated mechanism and rugged design allowed it to function effectively in various combat conditions.

Adopted by the Swedish military in 1945, the M45 quickly became popular due to its robust performance in harsh environments. It was later exported to numerous countries, including Egypt and the United States, where it saw use with special operations forces, most notably during the Vietnam War. In the U.S., it became favored by the Navy SEALs for its reliability and ability to be easily silenced.

The M45 has gained a cult following due to its widespread use in covert operations and its presence in conflicts throughout the mid-20th century. Though it has been replaced by more modern firearms, its durability and simple construction have left a lasting impact on submachine gun designs worldwide.