MP41 Help Please

[David H]

I am thinking of picking up an MP41, but I have read lots that they were not used by the Germans and were for export, then in other places that they were used but only by the SS and Police. So I'm now a little confused on what is true and what is BS, anyone have any info please, there is no point spending a lot of money if they were never used by the Germans during the war, ok it would still be a rare bird, but not in my collecting field.

How can you tell if they have been mucked about with?
This one has matching numbers on barrel and receiver, waffenamts and nice makers marks, and is a similar overall colour to others I've seen. Should they be number stamped on the butt?

Any help much appreciated.

[David H]

2

[David H]

3

[MP41]

First off; Great subject!

2nd: I find it amusing that you were asking for my help specifically (screen name)smile wink just kidding.... but seriously, when I saw the thread title I thought you were asking for me.

3rd; whoever told you that these were not used by the Germans is full of ***** and should be beaten!

Basically, the MP41 is essentially an MP40 mounted on a wooden stock. (very similar to the MP28 stock)
Unlike the MP40 (which is commonly called a "Schmeisser), the MP41 was actually designed and built by Hugo Schmeisser!

As to who used them, IMHO, these were used mostly by Police units, and the Waffen SS. This is based on the fact that many of the MP41s I've seen over the years are Police proofed. Photographs of Police, as well as SS soldiers using them is also verification of being used by the SS. Now, there is also a famous photo of King Tiger 222 taken during the Battle of the Bulge, showing a Luftwaffe FJ standing on the left side of the turret, and he has an MP41 as well.

All parts should be numbered and match if it's all 100% original.
The wooden stocks did have issues with cracking though, which is commonly found. So check the stock closely.
This one shown looks like it's been well used.

Great MP to get though!
One of my favorites! Along with the MP34o.

Let us know if you get it? Good luck!
Matt

[Geof]

Agree. Tough to get, only between 18 and 21k made. Extensive use by Polizei and SS. Lots of photos out there. I'll check the stock on mine tomorrow for a serial but I don't recall one on it. Well done. Geof

[dhunter93]

No stock number.

[Geof]

No stock number on mine

[k98]

my mp41

MP41 has used in large quantities also by the romanians.
Mine has the serial number on the stock

[TP Alexander]

I seem to remember that MP38/40 magazines don't fit well in them either and that the same problem exists when using MP41 mags in the MP40.

Or it might be that the magazine that I had, marked MP41, was bulged or something. I just know that it didn't fit in my MP40.

[pitfighter]

MP41 (mine are all Schmeisser marked) mags work fine in all the three MP40's I have tried them in.