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Star Z-45 submachine gun (Spain)

Caliber	9x23 Largo
Weight	3.87 kg
Length (stock closed/open)	580 / 841 mm
Barrel length	192 mm
Rate of fire	450 rounds per minute
Magazine capacity	10 or 30 rounds

The Star Z-45 submachine gun was developed in Spain by famous arms-making company Bonifacio Echeverria SA toward the end of the World War 2. It can be considered as an improved and refined version of the famous German MP40 submachine gun. The Star Z-45 submachine gun turned to be a robust and reliable weapon, and it successfully served with Spanish army and police for several decades after WW2. It was also exported to some South and Central American and Asian countries.

Star Z-45 submachine gun is based on simple blowback action, firing from open bolt. The bolt / return spring / telescoped guide setup is based on MP40. Z-45 also has similar safety arrangements ( laterally sliding bolt handle that locks the bolt when pushed inwards, plus L-shaped cut in the bolt handle slot to lock the bolt in rearward position). The Star Z-45 submachine gun can fire in single shots or full automatic, with selection being made through the pull of the trigger (short pull produces single shots, long pull - full automatic fire). Gun is fitted with wooden pistol grip and forend, and with bottom-folding metallic buttstock (all patterned after the MP40). The barrel is enclosed into slotted jacket, with muzzle brake - compensator at the front. The flip-up backsight is of L-shaped profile, with settings for 50 and 100 meters.

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