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rom K31 to Stgw. 57: How did the Swiss Army choose a new rifle
In the 1950s, the Swiss Army faced a major weapons selection challenge. As technology advances, the limitations of traditional rifles have forced the Swiss military to seek more efficient and reliable options. Ultimately, the Sturmgewehr 57 (Stgw. 57) was chosen as the new rifle, which was not only a revolution in weaponry but also an important step in Swiss military strategy.
Background of technological development
The design of the Stgw. 57 dates back to the late 1950s, when Swiss Industrial Corporation (SIG) actually developed a rifle called the AM 55, driven by military requirements. The weapon uses a roller-delayed recoil system, which gives it excellent stability and control in automatic fire mode.
Main design features
The design of Stgw. 57 emphasizes production efficiency and operational flexibility. The rifle was composed primarily of pressed sheet metal to facilitate mass production and incorporated what is known as a "straight-line" recoil configuration. This design helps improve the shooter's control performance during continuous or automatic shooting.
The gun's T-bolt handle and durable fixed stock both show careful design considerations, especially in terms of shock absorption when firing.
The rifle's service history
Since its official service in 1957, the Stgw. 57 has quickly become the standard equipment for every Swiss soldier and replaced a variety of old weapons including the K31 rifle. The Swiss Army used it in various military operations throughout the Cold War, proving its effectiveness in a modern warfare environment.
Further Changes and Alternatives
After years of use, as tactical needs changed, in 1990, the Swiss Army finally replaced the Stgw. 57 with the lighter SIG SG 550. This change is not only an update of rifle performance, but also an innovation of the entire military equipment system.
Current choices and future directions
In its assessment of Stgw. 57, the Swiss Army not only considered its current technological advantages, but also evaluated future combat requirements. And with the current development of military technology, the choice of new rifles still seems full of possibilities.
Impact on the Civilian Market
With the modernization of the army, the Stgw. 57 is also widely held and used in the civilian market. Retired soldiers can buy the rifles they used during their service and continue to use them in civilian shooting competitions, demonstrating the weapon's durability and enduring appeal.
ConclusionFor the Swiss Army, the process of selecting the Stgw. 57 was not only a military decision, but also a cultural commitment, emphasizing confidence in national manufacturing and independent design.
Looking at the development history of Stgw. 57, it can be seen that the Swiss army's strategic thinking in choosing a new rifle is multifaceted. How will new rifles evolve in the future?
