Beretta BM-62

mcshot · October 31, 1999, 10:40 PM

I finally found one ANIB and now would like to know some development history as there wasn't any paperwork. Also want to locate a 5 rd. mag. for hunting (michigan req.) Sure is a beautiful and efficient looking rifle.
Keep Shootin

Harley Nolden · November 1, 1999, 01:33 AM

Mcshot:
Sorry I don't have any personal information nor does the Library. Possibly someone from the forum could help.

HJN

Daniel Watters · November 1, 1999, 02:19 AM

In 1950, Beretta obtained a license to manufacture M1 Garand rifles for the Italian military. While these rifles were well accepted, it was decided in 1958 to begin work on a slightly more modern design to compete with the M14, G3, and FAL. Over a three month development period, Beretta engineers Domenico Salza and Vittorio Valle led work on tweaking the gas system for the 7.62x51mm NATO, adding a 20rd detachable magazine, and modifying the trigger group for selective fire. While unveiled in 1959, the BM59 did not enter Italian military service until 1962.

Only 100,000 BM59 rifles were actually completed by Beretta; however, Springfield Armory (commerical) offered a semi-auto version using Beretta parts.

[This message has been edited by Daniel Watters (edited November 01, 1999).]

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October 31, 1999, 10:40 PM	#1
mcshot Senior Member Join Date: October 24, 1999 Location: Over da bridge, Mi Posts: 754	I finally found one ANIB and now would like to know some development history as there wasn't any paperwork. Also want to locate a 5 rd. mag. for hunting (michigan req.) Sure is a beautiful and efficient looking rifle. Keep Shootin

November 1, 1999, 01:33 AM	#2
Harley Nolden Staff In Memoriam Join Date: January 8, 1999 Location: Brunswick,GA USA Posts: 1,884	Mcshot: Sorry I don't have any personal information nor does the Library. Possibly someone from the forum could help. HJN

November 1, 1999, 02:19 AM	#3
Daniel Watters Senior Member Join Date: February 7, 1999 Location: USA Posts: 644	In 1950, Beretta obtained a license to manufacture M1 Garand rifles for the Italian military. While these rifles were well accepted, it was decided in 1958 to begin work on a slightly more modern design to compete with the M14, G3, and FAL. Over a three month development period, Beretta engineers Domenico Salza and Vittorio Valle led work on tweaking the gas system for the 7.62x51mm NATO, adding a 20rd detachable magazine, and modifying the trigger group for selective fire. While unveiled in 1959, the BM59 did not enter Italian military service until 1962. Only 100,000 BM59 rifles were actually completed by Beretta; however, Springfield Armory (commerical) offered a semi-auto version using Beretta parts. [This message has been edited by Daniel Watters (edited November 01, 1999).]