Marstar/SSD BD-38 review (now with pics & VIDEO!)

OK, here are some photos from today's range session :)

1) The BD38 next to the VZ58 (for comparison):
IMG_4279.jpg

2) Here is a target, 15 yards, rapid fire, a few mags into it. Aiming was at the round circle in the middle of the target (ie, the box manufacturer's logo). Actually grouped really well considering how fast I was pumping lead into the target and the "weirdness" of shooting an open-bolt in semi-auto. One of those things you have to actually "feel" to know what I'm talking about (ie, Sten guys will know EXACTLY what I mean):
IMG_4285.jpg

3) And here's a "target" at 50 yards (note I was aiming at the "HP" surrounded by the black circle. Fired from a kneeling semi-supported position).
IMG_4284.jpg


Finally, Wheaty asked me to post pics of the firing mechanism. On the surface, very similar to the real MP38 mechanism except for the big disconnector sticking up in front of the bolt to stop the gun from "doing tricks" ;)

IMG_4287.jpg

IMG_4286.jpg
 
Some additional observations now that I've had her out for a spin...

- If you buy one of these, GET THE MAG PACK. One mag would be TORTURE. I have seven mags and wish I had more - 'nuff said.
- If you have seven+ mags, one of your best investments will be in a MAG LOADER. Mine is a Yugoslavian post-war MP40 loader and it works great. Cost me about $30 or so. Nazi ones start at about $90 or so and don't work any better. GET ONE. Your fingers will thank you. (Hopefully John will find a source so ppl won't have to look all over the internet to find a useable mag loader)
- I think I need a dillon progressive reloading press as this thing is going to get expensive to feed. I went through all 200 rounds I brought in no time at all and left with a HUGE smile on my face. All the brass landed in a nice tight pattern.
- The only malfunctions were the first two rounds. I think the gun needed a little "breaking in" and I think I ran it too dry. The first 2 rounds chambered, but didn't go off. I added a dab of oil to the bolt and the next 200 rounds ran perfectly. Next time, I'm going to run a little lubriplate on the bolt body.
- Get a real or repro MP40 sling. This gun shoots way more controllably with a sling around your neck ala German ww2 photos - guess those NCO's and Falshirmjaegers knew what they were doing. Also, the extendable stock REALLY helps when it's EXTENDED.
 
Cat's Meow

Bloody awesome!

I told myself that I would get no more semis after 1991. I must have been mad. That gun is so cool, I only wish there was some way to have ### with it.

When I get my back pay, I am getting one of those things.

BB
 
Damn that looks fun, sure would be nice to seeya let loose with a full clip. i can see why you would want the mag pack though, your changing mags as fast as your shooting.
 
Garand said:
Excellent video, after that part where you point the firearm at the camera!!
Click to expand...

LOL. The camera is on a tripod and I'm walking over to it b/c I am the one operating it too! There's no "photographer". Also, the range is a 270 degree bank coverage IPSC range. This means the only direction not protected by 25 ft. berms is the firing line. The gun was pointed at the berm at all times and I was the only person on that range.

Video was taken at EOHC range No.1 for those who care to verify my story.

There was other shooting going on that day, but it was on Ranges 2 and 3.
 
kevwat said:
So Claven, when are you getting the BD 44, i'd like to see your home movies of you playing with that badboy as well.
Click to expand...

As much as I want one, between the BD38 and my MG42, both purchased this year, I'm a bit tapped for big-ticket gun fun right now. :(

Hope someone else steps up to the plate though - I'd LOVE to see some bd44 videos!
 
Claven - nice gun and congrats! This is making me want my restricted license!

One thing - in the video you are holding the gun by the magazine - very hollywood, but not technically correct form. I had the honour of firing one of these puppies full auto and getting some instruction on the use, and it was indicated that, although it may look super cool, holding it by the mag isn't the way to go.

There is a little forehandle just before the mag, that's where you are supposed to hold it -- like this nasty fellow:

G188-MP-38,-...-book.jpg


Something to do with dislodging the magazine, thus interrupting the feed. Something like that. More relevant for full auto fire.

BTW, given the weight and the size of the gun, and the fact that is uses 9mm, this gun is by far the most stable full auto I have ever fired.

Now how the hell do I get my restricted and find $3000?
 
Actually, Wehrmacht soldiers were taught to either grap the bakelite stock as per your photo, OR the Magazine HOUSING (ie, not the mag itself). (source: The MP40 Submachine Gun by Mike Ingram)

It's hard to tell in the videos, but I'm holding the fixed housing, not the mag body. I do realize you are not supposed to do that ;)

Also, I should mention, the MP38 with its machined mag housing accepts the magazines VERY snugly. Even if you grab the mag, ther is little to no movement.

An mp40, however, with it's stamped, folded and welded mag housing allows a much sloppier fit and is more sensitive to mag wiggle.
 
Last edited:
Nice shootin' there Fritz.

My only gripe (%&*(% Canada) is bang bang bang bang bang..... instead of bang x 32! Takes a lot of fun (and the point) out of these.
 
MauserMike said:
Nice shootin' there Fritz.

My only gripe (%&*(% Canada) is bang bang bang bang bang..... instead of bang x 32! Takes a lot of fun (and the point) out of these.
Click to expand...

It's your only choice unless you move to the USA or like
staring at the computer screen.
Remember, 12.2 and 12.3 are paperweights now.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top Bottom