Uzi: Difference between revisions

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**[[Guatemalan Civil War]]
**[[Guatemalan Civil War]]
**[[Portuguese Colonial War]]
**[[Portuguese Colonial War]]
**[[The troubles]]
**[[West New Guinea dispute]]<ref>{{cite magazine |author=<!--Staff writer(s); no by-line.--> |date=February 2013 |title=Kiprah Tempur Pasukan Belanda |trans-title=Dutch Troops Combat History |language=ID |magazine=Angkasa Edisi Koleksi No. 82: Kisah Heroik Pertempuran Laut Trikora |location=Jakarta |publisher=[[Kompas Gramedia Group]] |pages= 90–91}}</ref>
**[[West New Guinea dispute]]<ref>{{cite magazine |author=<!--Staff writer(s); no by-line.--> |date=February 2013 |title=Kiprah Tempur Pasukan Belanda |trans-title=Dutch Troops Combat History |language=ID |magazine=Angkasa Edisi Koleksi No. 82: Kisah Heroik Pertempuran Laut Trikora |location=Jakarta |publisher=[[Kompas Gramedia Group]] |pages= 90–91}}</ref>
**[[Communist insurgency in Thailand]]
**[[Six-Day War]]
**[[Six-Day War]]
**[[Vietnam War]]
**[[Vietnam War]]
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*'''1980s'''
*'''1980s'''
**[[Salvadoran Civil War]]
**[[Salvadoran Civil War]]
**[[Attempted assassination of Ronald Reagan]]
**[[Falklands War]]
**[[Falklands War]]
**[[Sri Lankan civil war|Sri Lankan Civil War]]
**[[Sri Lankan civil war|Sri Lankan Civil War]]
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**[[1982 Lebanon war]]
**[[1982 Lebanon war]]
**[[South African Border War]]
**[[South African Border War]]
**[[Thai–Laotian Border War]]
* '''1990s'''
* '''1990s'''
**[[Gulf War]]
**[[Gulf War|Persian Gulf War]]
**[[Yugoslav Wars]]
**[[Yugoslav Wars]]
**[[Somali Civil War]]
**[[Somali Civil War]]
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**[[Syrian Civil War]]
**[[Syrian Civil War]]
* '''2020s'''
* '''2020s'''
**[[Russo-Ukrainian War]]<ref name="Ukr War">{{cite web |title=Uzi In Ukraine |url=https://armourersbench.com/2023/05/14/uzi-in-ukraine/ |website=The Armourers Bench |language=en |date=14 May 2023}}</ref>
**[[Russo-Ukrainian war (2022–present)]]<ref name="Ukr War">{{cite web |title=Uzi In Ukraine |url=https://armourersbench.com/2023/05/14/uzi-in-ukraine/ |website=The Armourers Bench |language=en |date=14 May 2023}}</ref>
**[[Myanmar Civil War]]
**[[Myanmar Civil War]]
**[[Israel-Gaza war]]
**[[Israel-Gaza war]]
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}}
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The '''Uzi''' ({{IPAc-en|audio=en-us-uzi.ogg|pron|ˈ|uː|z|i}}; {{langx|he|עוזי|Ūzi}}; officially [[Letter case|cased]] as '''UZI''') is a family of Israeli [[open bolt|open-bolt]], [[blowback (arms)|blowback]]-operated [[submachine gun]]s and [[machine pistol]]s first designed by Major [[Uziel Gal|Uziel "Uzi" Gal]] in the late 1940s, shortly after the establishment of the State of Israel. It is one of the first weapons to incorporate a [[telescoping bolt]] design, which allows the [[magazine (firearms)|magazine]] to be housed in the pistol grip for a shorter weapon.
The '''Uzi''' ({{IPAc-en|audio=en-us-uzi.ogg|pron|ˈ|uː|z|i}}; {{langx|he|עוּזִי|ʿûzî}}; officially [[Letter case|cased]] as '''UZI''') is a family of Israeli [[open bolt|open-bolt]], [[blowback (arms)|blowback]]-operated [[submachine gun]]s and [[machine pistol]]s first designed by Major [[Uziel Gal|Uziel "Uzi" Gal]] in the late 1940s, shortly after the establishment of the State of Israel. It is one of the first weapons to incorporate a [[telescoping bolt]] design, which allows the [[magazine (firearms)|magazine]] to be housed in the pistol grip for a shorter weapon.


The Uzi prototype was finished in 1950. It was first introduced to [[Israel Defense Forces]] (IDF) special forces in 1954, and the weapon was placed into general issue two years later. The IDF supplied Uzis to rear-echelon troops, officers, artillery troops and tank crews, as well as a frontline weapon by elite light infantry assault forces.
The Uzi prototype was finished in 1950. It was first introduced to [[Israel Defense Forces]] (IDF) special forces in 1954, and the weapon was placed into general issue two years later. The IDF supplied Uzis to rear-echelon troops, officers, artillery troops and tank crews, as well as a frontline weapon by elite light infantry assault forces.
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== Design ==
== Design ==
[[File:Uzi Gal.jpg|thumb|[[Uziel Gal]], the designer and inventor of the Uzi submachine gun]]
[[File:Uzi Gal.jpg|thumb|[[Uziel Gal]], the designer and inventor of the Uzi submachine gun]]
 
The Uzi uses an [[open bolt|open-bolt]], [[blowback (arms)|blowback]]-operated design, quite similar to the Jaroslav Holeček-designed Czech ZK 476 (prototype only)<ref>{{cite web|url= http://www.pmulcahy.com/submachineguns/israeli_submachineguns.htm|title= IMI Uzi|first= Paul|last= Mulcahy|access-date= 25 November 2012|archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20130120073355/http://pmulcahy.com/submachineguns/israeli_submachineguns.htm|archive-date= 20 January 2013|url-status=live}}</ref> and the production [[Sa vz. 23|Sa 23, Sa 24, Sa 25, and Sa 26]] series of submachine guns introduced in 1948. The open bolt design exposes the barrel's breech end, improving cooling after periods of continuous fire. However, it means that since the bolt is held to the rear when cocked, the receiver is more susceptible to contamination from sand and dirt. It uses a [[telescoping bolt]] design, in which the bolt wraps around the breech end of the barrel.<ref name="IH">{{cite book | last = Hogg | first = Ian V. | author-link = Ian V. Hogg | title = Guns and How They Work | publisher = Everest House | year = 1979 | location = New York | pages = 157–158 | isbn = 0-89696-023-4 }}</ref> This allows the barrel to be moved far back into the [[receiver (firearms)|receiver]] and the [[magazine (firearms)|magazine]] to be housed in the pistol grip, allowing for a heavier, slower-firing bolt in a shorter, better-balanced weapon.<ref name="FF"/>
The Uzi uses an [[open bolt|open-bolt]], [[blowback (arms)|blowback]]-operated design, quite similar to the Jaroslav Holeček-designed Czech ZK 476 (prototype only)<ref>{{cite web|url= http://www.pmulcahy.com/submachineguns/israeli_submachineguns.htm|title= IMI Uzi|first= Paul|last= Mulcahy|access-date= 25 November 2012|archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20130120073355/http://pmulcahy.com/submachineguns/israeli_submachineguns.htm|archive-date= 20 January 2013|url-status=live}}</ref> and the production [[Sa vz. 23|Sa 23, Sa 24, Sa 25, and Sa 26]] series of submachine guns introduced in 1948. The open bolt design exposes the barrel's breech end, improving cooling during periods of continuous fire. However, it means that since the bolt is held to the rear when cocked, the receiver is more susceptible to contamination from sand and dirt. It uses a [[telescoping bolt]] design, in which the bolt wraps around the breech end of the barrel.<ref name="IH">{{cite book | last = Hogg | first = Ian V. | author-link = Ian V. Hogg | title = Guns and How They Work | publisher = Everest House | year = 1979 | location = New York | pages = 157–158 | isbn = 0-89696-023-4 }}</ref> This allows the barrel to be moved far back into the [[receiver (firearms)|receiver]] and the [[magazine (firearms)|magazine]] to be housed in the pistol grip, allowing for a heavier, slower-firing bolt in a shorter, better-balanced weapon.<ref name="FF"/>


The weapon is constructed primarily from stamped sheet metal, making it less expensive per unit to manufacture than an equivalent design machined from forgings. With relatively few moving parts, the Uzi is easy to strip for maintenance or repair. The magazine is housed within the pistol grip, allowing for intuitive and easy reloading in dark or difficult conditions, under the principle of "hand finds hand". The pistol grip is fitted with a [[grip safety]], making it difficult to fire accidentally. However, the protruding vertical magazine makes the gun awkward to fire when prone.<ref name="IH"/> The Uzi features a bayonet lug.<ref name="Lewis">{{cite book |title=The Gun Digest Book of Assault Weapons |last=Lewis |first=Jack |author2=Steele, David E. |author-link =Jack Lewis (screenwriter) |year=2000 |edition=5th |publisher=Krause Publications |location=Iola, Wis. |isbn=0-87341-778-X |page=222 |oclc=43521989}}</ref>
The weapon is constructed primarily from stamped sheet metal, making it less expensive per unit to manufacture than an equivalent design machined from forgings. With relatively few moving parts, the Uzi is easy to strip for maintenance or repair. The magazine is housed within the pistol grip, allowing for intuitive and easy reloading in dark or difficult conditions, under the principle of "hand finds hand". The pistol grip is fitted with a [[grip safety]], making it difficult to fire accidentally. However, the protruding vertical magazine makes the gun awkward to fire when prone.<ref name="IH"/> The Uzi features a bayonet lug.<ref name="Lewis">{{cite book |title=The Gun Digest Book of Assault Weapons |last=Lewis |first=Jack |author2=Steele, David E. |author-link =Jack Lewis (screenwriter) |year=2000 |edition=5th |publisher=Krause Publications |location=Iola, Wis. |isbn=0-87341-778-X |page=222 |oclc=43521989}}</ref>
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[[File:1952 General von Horn IMI Uzi 001 (cropped).jpg|thumb|Uzi with a detachable wooden stock]]
[[File:1952 General von Horn IMI Uzi 001 (cropped).jpg|thumb|Uzi with a detachable wooden stock]]
[[File:UZI Submachine Gun (7414624230).jpg|thumb|Uzi with a folding stock]]
[[File:UZI Submachine Gun (7414624230).jpg|thumb|Uzi with a folding stock]]
There are different stocks available for the Uzi proper.<ref>{{cite book|last1=Gaboury|first1=David|title=The UZI Submachine Gun Examined|date=3 July 2017|publisher=Andrew Mowbray Publishing, Inc.|isbn=978-1931464765|page=234}}</ref> There is a wooden stock with a metal buttplate that comes in three similar variations that were used by the IDF. The first version had a flat butt and straight [[Stock (firearms)#Comb|comb]] and had hollows for a cleaning rod and gun oil bottle. The second had an angled butt and a straight comb and no hollows. The third had an angled butt and curved comb and no hollows; a polymer version is currently available from IMI. The wooden stocks originally had a quick-release base but the ones sold in the United States often had a permanent base for legal reasons, as detachable stocks on pistols or other short-barreled weapons upgrade the weapon to [[National Firearms Act|NFA]] status.<ref>{{cite web |title= FAQ |url=https://www.uzitalk.com/reference/pages/FAQ.htm#Barrel%20and%20stock |website=UZI Talk }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=If a person has a pistol and an attachable shoulder stock, does this constitute possession of an NFA firearm?  |url=https://www.atf.gov/firearms/qa/if-person-has-pistol-and-attachable-shoulder-stock-does-constitute-possession-nfa |website=Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives |date=April 13, 2020 }}</ref>
There are different stocks available for the Uzi proper.<ref>{{cite book|last1=Gaboury|first1=David|title=The UZI Submachine Gun Examined|date=3 July 2017|publisher=Andrew Mowbray Publishing, Inc.|isbn=978-1931464765|page=234}}</ref> There is a wooden stock with a metal buttplate that comes in three similar variations that were used by the IDF. The first version had a flat butt and straight [[Stock (firearms)#Comb|comb]] and had hollows for a cleaning rod and gun oil bottle. The second had an angled butt and a straight comb and no hollows. The third had an angled butt and curved comb and no hollows; a polymer version is currently available from IMI. The wooden stocks originally had a quick-release base but the ones sold in the United States often had a permanent base for legal reasons, as detachable stocks on pistols or other short-barreled weapons upgrade the weapon to [[National Firearms Act|NFA]] status.<ref>{{cite web |title= FAQ |url=https://www.uzitalk.com/reference/pages/FAQ.htm#Barrel%20and%20stock |website=UZI Talk }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=If a person has a pistol and an attachable shoulder stock, does this constitute possession of an NFA firearm?  |url=https://www.atf.gov/firearms/qa/if-person-has-pistol-and-attachable-shoulder-stock-does-constitute-possession-nfa |website=Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives |date=April 13, 2020 }}</ref>


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Total sales of the weapon to date (end of 2001) has netted IMI over 2 billion US dollars, with over 90 countries using the weapons either for their armed forces or in law enforcement.<ref name="FF"/>
Total sales of the weapon to date (end of 2001) has netted IMI over 2 billion US dollars, with over 90 countries using the weapons either for their armed forces or in law enforcement.<ref name="FF"/>
* The [[Royal Netherlands Army]] first issued the Uzi in 1956. It was the first country other than Israel to use it as a service weapon. Their models are distinct in that they have a wooden stock (made to their specifications) that is more angular, an angled butt and a curved comb, and is 2 inches longer than the IDF model. The wooden stock versions were mainly used by the [[Royal Netherlands Navy]] and the [[Netherlands Marine Corps|Marine Corps]]. The Army and [[Royal Netherlands Air Force|Airforce]] received the metal foldable stock versions as replacement. No bayonets were issued.
* The [[Royal Netherlands Army]] first issued the Uzi in 1956. It was the first country other than Israel to use it as a service weapon. Their models are distinct in that they have a wooden stock (made to their specifications) that is more angular, an angled butt and a curved comb, and is 2 inches longer than the IDF model. The wooden stock versions were mainly used by the [[Royal Netherlands Navy]] and the [[Netherlands Marine Corps|Marine Corps]]. The Army and [[Royal Netherlands Air Force|Airforce]] received the metal foldable stock versions as replacement. No bayonets were issued.
* The German [[Bundeswehr]] (especially its tank crews) used the Uzi since 1959 under the designation MP2. It replaced the [[Beretta Model 38|MP1 (Beretta M1938/49)]] and [[Thompson M1]] in service. The MP2 was fitted with the IDF-style wooden stock and the later MP2A1 was fitted with the metal folding stock. It can be recognized by its distinctive three-position "DES" selector switch: "D" for "''Dauerfeuer''" ("continuous-fire", or "automatic"), "E" for "''Einzelfeuer''" ("single-fire", or "semi-automatic"), and "S" for "''Sicher''" ("secure", or "safe"). It was replaced with the [[Heckler & Koch MP7]] Personal Defense Weapon in 2007.
* The German [[Bundeswehr]] (especially its tank crews) used the Uzi since 1959 under the designation MP2.<ref name="book">http://wwww.gunmountain.com/display.article.cfm?idarticles=3884</ref><ref name="UziSar">https://smallarmsreview.com/weapon-of-service-the-uzi-submachine-gun-in-germany/</ref> It replaced the [[Beretta Model 38|MP1 (Beretta M1938/49)]] and [[Thompson M1]] in service. The MP2 was fitted with the IDF-style wooden stock and the later MP2A1 was fitted with the metal folding stock. It can be recognized by its distinctive three-position "DES" selector switch: "D" for "''Dauerfeuer''" ("continuous-fire", or "automatic"), "E" for "''Einzelfeuer''" ("single-fire", or "semi-automatic"), and "S" for "''Sicher''" ("secure", or "safe"). It was replaced with the [[Heckler & Koch MP7]] Personal Defense Weapon in 2007.<ref name="UziSar"/> Most of the Uzis used in Germany consisted of receivers with Israeli markings and grips made by FN.<ref name="UziSar"/>
* The [[Belgian Armed Forces]] have used Uzi machine pistols in 9mm, [[.45 ACP]] and [[22 Long Rifle|22LR]] calibres, license-made by [[FN Herstal]] from 1958 to 1971. They were also issued to the paramilitary [[Gendarmerie (Belgium)|Gendarmerie]].<ref>{{cite web|title=Uzi 9 mm|url=http://www.mil.be/fr/materiel/uzi-9-mm|website=La Défense|date=18 April 2013 |publisher=Ministère de la Défense|access-date=9 March 2017|language=fr|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170312035655/http://www.mil.be/fr/materiel/uzi-9-mm|archive-date=12 March 2017|url-status=live}}</ref>
* The [[Belgian Armed Forces]] have used Uzi machine pistols in 9mm, [[.45 ACP]] and [[22 Long Rifle|22LR]] calibres, license-made by [[FN Herstal]] from 1958 to 1971.<ref>https://armourersbench.com/2023/05/14/uzi-in-ukraine/</ref> They were also issued to the paramilitary [[Gendarmerie (Belgium)|Gendarmerie]].<ref>{{cite web|title=Uzi 9 mm|url=http://www.mil.be/fr/materiel/uzi-9-mm|website=La Défense|date=18 April 2013 |publisher=Ministère de la Défense|access-date=9 March 2017|language=fr|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170312035655/http://www.mil.be/fr/materiel/uzi-9-mm|archive-date=12 March 2017|url-status=live}}</ref>
* The Irish [[Garda Síochána|Gardaí]] [[Emergency Response Unit (Garda)|ERU]] and [[Regional Support Unit|RSU]] were issued the Uzi from the 1970s to 2012. It was replaced with the [[Heckler & Koch MP7]] in March 2014.<ref>[http://www.thejournal.ie/gardai-guns-840169-Mar2013/ "Gardaí feel like ‘sitting ducks’ after decision to withdraw Uzi submachine guns"] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160414205606/http://www.thejournal.ie/gardai-guns-840169-Mar2013/ |date=2016-04-14 }}, TheJournal.ie, March 23, 2015</ref>
* The Irish [[Garda Síochána|Gardaí]] [[Emergency Response Unit (Garda)|ERU]] and [[Regional Support Unit|RSU]] were issued the Uzi from the 1970s to 2012. It was replaced with the [[Heckler & Koch MP7]] in March 2014.<ref>[http://www.thejournal.ie/gardai-guns-840169-Mar2013/ "Gardaí feel like ‘sitting ducks’ after decision to withdraw Uzi submachine guns"] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160414205606/http://www.thejournal.ie/gardai-guns-840169-Mar2013/ |date=2016-04-14 }}, TheJournal.ie, March 23, 2015</ref>
* In [[Rhodesia]], the Uzi was produced under license from 1976 until the fall of Rhodesia in 1980. It was made from Israeli-supplied (and later Rhodesian-made) components.
* In [[Rhodesia]], the Uzi was produced under license from 1976 until the fall of Rhodesia in 1980. It was made from Israeli-supplied (and later Rhodesian-made) components.
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== Military variants ==
== Military variants ==
[[File:Uzi 2.jpg|thumb|A Mini Uzi]]
[[File:COIM in Ancon 2010-07-19.JPG|thumb|Argentine special forces with a Micro Uzi]]
[[File:IWI UZI.jpg|thumb|Uzi Pro]]
The standard Uzi has a {{convert|10|in|mm|adj=on}} barrel. It has a rate of automatic fire of 600 rounds per minute (rpm) when chambered in [[9mm Parabellum]]; the [[.45 ACP]] model's rate of fire is slower at 500 rpm.<ref name="KD"/>
The standard Uzi has a {{convert|10|in|mm|adj=on}} barrel. It has a rate of automatic fire of 600 rounds per minute (rpm) when chambered in [[9mm Parabellum]]; the [[.45 ACP]] model's rate of fire is slower at 500 rpm.<ref name="KD"/>
[[Image:Uzi 2.jpg|thumb|A Mini Uzi]]


The '''Mini Uzi''' is a smaller version of the regular Uzi, first introduced in 1980. The Mini Uzi is {{convert|600|mm|in|abbr=on}} long or {{convert|360|mm|in|abbr=on}} long with the stock folded. Its barrel length is {{convert|197|mm|in|abbr=on}}, its muzzle velocity is {{convert|375|m/s|abbr=on}} and its effective range is {{convert|100|m|abbr=on}}. It has a greater automatic rate of fire of 950 rounds per minute due to the shorter bolt. Its weight is approximately {{convert|2.7|kg|abbr=on}}.<ref name="KD"/>
The '''Mini Uzi''' is a smaller version of the regular Uzi, first introduced in 1980. The Mini Uzi is {{convert|600|mm|in|abbr=on}} long or {{convert|360|mm|in|abbr=on}} long with the stock folded. Its barrel length is {{convert|197|mm|in|abbr=on}}, its muzzle velocity is {{convert|375|m/s|abbr=on}} and its effective range is {{convert|100|m|abbr=on}}. It has a greater automatic rate of fire of 950 rounds per minute due to the shorter bolt. Its weight is approximately {{convert|2.7|kg|abbr=on}}.<ref name="KD"/>
[[File:COIM in Ancon 2010-07-19.JPG|thumb|left|Argentine special forces with a Micro Uzi]]


The '''Micro Uzi''' is an even further scaled down version of the Uzi, introduced in 1986. The Micro Uzi is {{convert|486|mm|in|abbr=on}} long, reduced to {{convert|282|mm|in|abbr=on}} with the stock folded, and its barrel length is {{convert|117|mm|in|abbr=on}}. It has a closed bolt compared to its original counterpart.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://georgians.weapon.ge/index.php?sel=1&id=348&l=en |title=IMI Micro-UZI (Israel) |website=WEAPON.GE |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110721030240/http://georgians.weapon.ge/index.php?sel=1&id=348&l=en |archive-date=2011-07-21 |url-status=dead}} Weapon.GE, retrieved on February 01, 2011.</ref> Its muzzle velocity is {{convert|350|m/s|abbr=on}} and its cyclic rate of fire is 1,200 rpm. It weighs slightly over {{convert|1.5|kg|abbr=on}}.<ref name="KD"/>
The '''Micro Uzi''' is an even further scaled down version of the Uzi, introduced in 1986. The Micro Uzi is {{convert|486|mm|in|abbr=on}} long, reduced to {{convert|282|mm|in|abbr=on}} with the stock folded, and its barrel length is {{convert|117|mm|in|abbr=on}}. It has a closed bolt compared to its original counterpart.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://georgians.weapon.ge/index.php?sel=1&id=348&l=en |title=IMI Micro-UZI (Israel) |website=WEAPON.GE |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110721030240/http://georgians.weapon.ge/index.php?sel=1&id=348&l=en |archive-date=2011-07-21 |url-status=dead}} Weapon.GE, retrieved on February 01, 2011.</ref> Its muzzle velocity is {{convert|350|m/s|abbr=on}} and its cyclic rate of fire is 1,200 rpm. It weighs slightly over {{convert|1.5|kg|abbr=on}}.<ref name="KD"/>


[[File:IWI UZI.jpg|thumb|Uzi Pro]]
The '''Uzi Pro''', an improved variant of the Micro Uzi, was launched in 2010 by [[Israel Weapon Industries|Israel Weapon Industries Ltd.]] (I.W.I.), formerly the ''magen'' ("small arms") division of [[Israel Military Industries]]. The Uzi Pro is a blowback-operated, select-fire, closed-bolt submachine gun with a large lower portion, comprising grip and handguard, entirely made of polymer to reduce weight; the grip section was redesigned to allow two-handed operation and facilitate control in full-automatic fire of such a small-sized firearm. The Uzi Pro features four [[Picatinny rail]]s, two at the sides of the barrel, which can be removed, one below the barrel for the addition of foregrips and one on the top for optics. The under barrel rail is often shown with a specialised foregrip which attaches to the pistol grip to form a handguard. In addition, the cocking handle has been moved to the left side.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.israel-weapon.com/default.asp?catid={89B2D388-821D-424D-B8AB-CB619D165202} |title=UZI Pro |publisher=Israel Weapon Industries (IWI) Ltd |access-date=6 January 2011 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101124224307/http://www.israel-weapon.com/default.asp?catid=%7B89B2D388-821D-424D-B8AB-CB619D165202%7D |archive-date=24 November 2010 }}</ref> The new weapon weighs {{convert|2.32|kg|abbr=on}} and has a length of {{convert|529|mm|in|abbr=on}} with an extended stock,<ref name=jpostProDec11>{{cite news | url=https://www.jpost.com/Defense/Article.aspx?id=248117 | title=New version of legendary Uzi unveiled | first=Yaakov | last=Katz | publisher=[[JPost]].com | date=5 December 2011 | access-date=6 December 2011 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111206042650/http://www.jpost.com/Defense/Article.aspx?id=248117 | archive-date=6 December 2011 | url-status=live }}</ref> and {{convert|300|mm|in|abbr=on}} while collapsed. As of 2011 it has been purchased by the IDF in limited numbers for evaluation and it is yet to be decided whether or not to order additional units for all of its special forces.<ref name=jpostProDec11 /><ref name="bamahane3109-13">{{cite magazine |title=Uzi 2012 |magazine=[[Bamahane]] |issue= 3109 |date=November 25, 2011 |page=13 |language=he}}</ref>
 
The '''Uzi Pro''', an improved variant of the Micro Uzi, was launched in 2010 by [[Israel Weapon Industries|Israel Weapon Industries Ltd.]] (I.W.I.), formerly the ''magen'' ("small arms") division of [[Israel Military Industries]]. The Uzi Pro is a blowback-operated, select-fire, closed-bolt submachine gun with a large lower portion, comprising grip and handguard, entirely made of polymer to reduce weight; the grip section was redesigned to allow two-handed operation and facilitate control in full-automatic fire of such a small-sized firearm. The Uzi Pro features four [[Picatinny rail]]s, two at the sides of the barrel, which can be removed, one below the barrel for the addition of foregrips and one on the top for optics. The under barrel rail is often shown with a specialised foregrip which attaches to the pistol grip to form a hand guard. In addition, the cocking handle has been moved to the left side.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.israel-weapon.com/default.asp?catid={89B2D388-821D-424D-B8AB-CB619D165202} |title=UZI Pro |publisher=Israel Weapon Industries (IWI) Ltd |access-date=6 January 2011 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101124224307/http://www.israel-weapon.com/default.asp?catid=%7B89B2D388-821D-424D-B8AB-CB619D165202%7D |archive-date=24 November 2010 }}</ref> The new weapon weighs {{convert|2.32|kg|abbr=on}} and has a length of {{convert|529|mm|in|abbr=on}} with an extended stock,<ref name=jpostProDec11>{{cite news | url=http://www.jpost.com/Defense/Article.aspx?id=248117 | title=New version of legendary Uzi unveiled | first=Yaakov | last=Katz | publisher=[[JPost]].com | date=5 December 2011 | access-date=6 December 2011 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111206042650/http://www.jpost.com/Defense/Article.aspx?id=248117 | archive-date=6 December 2011 | url-status=live }}</ref> and {{convert|300|mm|in|abbr=on}} while collapsed. As of 2011 it has been purchased by the IDF in limited numbers for evaluation and it is yet to be decided whether or not to order additional units for all of its special forces.<ref name=jpostProDec11 /><ref name="bamahane3109-13">{{cite magazine |title=Uzi 2012 |magazine=[[Bamahane]] |issue= 3109 |date=November 25, 2011 |page=13 |language=he}}</ref>


== Civilian variants ==
== Civilian variants ==
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===Uzi Pro pistol===
===Uzi Pro pistol===
The Uzi Pro pistol is a current version of the Uzi pistol. It has rails on the top and bottom, and there is an optional stabilizing brace. Unlike any other Uzi variant, the Uzi Pro pistol has a side charging handle, rather than a top charging handle, and has a three-stage safety. There are three safeties on the Uzi Pro pistol: a thumb safety, a grip safety, and a firing pin block. This model was intended for law enforcement and civilian use, due to the compact size, rails, and a semi-automatic rate of fire. Unlike other Uzi variants, the Uzi Pro pistol is only chambered for 9×19 Parabellum.
The '''Uzi Pro pistol''' is a current version of the Uzi pistol. It has rails on the top and bottom, and there is an optional stabilizing brace. Unlike any other Uzi variant, the Uzi Pro pistol has a side charging handle, rather than a top charging handle, and has a three-stage safety. There are three safeties on the Uzi Pro pistol: a thumb safety, a grip safety, and a firing pin block. This model was intended for law enforcement and civilian use, due to the compact size, rails, and a semi-automatic rate of fire. Unlike other Uzi variants, the Uzi Pro pistol is only chambered for 9×19 Parabellum.


==Copies==
==Copies==
===AG Strojnica ERO===
===AG Strojnica ERO===
[[File:Strojnica ERO.jpg|thumb|left|Strojnica ERO]]
[[File:Strojnica ERO.jpg|thumb|Strojnica ERO]]
The ''[[Arma Grupa]]'' Strojnica ERO (Arms Group "ERO machine-gun") was a Croatian Uzi clone made locally by ''Arma Grupa'' of Zagreb during the Yugoslav War. It was made entirely from steel stampings, causing it to weigh more ({{convert|3.73|kg|abbr=on}}).<ref>Fowler, Will; North, Anthony; Stronge, Charles; and Sweeney, Patrick. ''The Illustrated Encyclopedia of GUNS'' (New York: Metro Books, 2013), p.242.</ref> The only difference from the Uzi is the selector switch, which is marked "R" (''Rafalno'' {"burst"}, for full automatic fire), "P" (''Pojedinačno'', for single shot) and "Z" (''Zaključan'' {locked}, for safe) and its [[rate of fire]] is 650 rounds per minute. It uses the 32-round magazine as standard, but can use any 9mm Uzi-interface magazine of 25 rounds or larger.
The ''[[Arma Grupa]]'' Strojnica ERO (Arms Group "ERO machine-gun") was a Croatian Uzi clone made locally by ''Arma Grupa'' of Zagreb during the Yugoslav War. It was made entirely from steel stampings, causing it to weigh more ({{convert|3.73|kg|abbr=on}}).<ref>Fowler, Will; North, Anthony; Stronge, Charles; and Sweeney, Patrick. ''The Illustrated Encyclopedia of GUNS'' (New York: Metro Books, 2013), p.242.</ref> The only difference from the Uzi is the selector switch, which is marked "R" (''Rafalno'' {"burst"}, for full automatic fire), "P" (''Pojedinačno'', for single shot) and "Z" (''Zaključan'' {locked}, for safe) and its [[rate of fire]] is 650 rounds per minute. It uses the 32-round magazine as standard, but can use any 9mm Uzi-interface magazine of 25 rounds or larger.


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{{main|Socimi Type 821}}
{{main|Socimi Type 821}}


===Norinco M320===
===Norinco Model 320===
[[Norinco]] of China manufactures an unlicensed copy of the Uzi Model B that is sold as the M320. Early versions were marked "POLICE Model" in English. Modifications were made to avoid the US Assault Weapon Import Ban: the folding stock was replaced with a wooden [[Stock (firearm)|thumbhole stock]], the barrel nut was welded in place, and the bayonet lug was removed.<ref>Department oF the Treasury Study on the Sporting Suitability oF ModiFied Semiautomatic Assault RiFles (4-98)</ref> The gun had a gray [[parkerized]] finish, a {{convert|410|mm|in}} carbine-length barrel and is {{convert|800|mm|in}} overall.
[[Norinco]] of China manufactures an unlicensed copy of the Uzi Model B that is sold as the Model 320.<ref name="ASR">http://archive.smallarmsreview.com/display.article.cfm?idarticles=1411</ref> Early versions were marked "POLICE Model" in English. Modifications were made to avoid the US Assault Weapon Import Ban: the folding stock was replaced with a wooden [[Stock (firearm)|thumbhole stock]], the barrel nut was welded in place, and the bayonet lug was removed.<ref>https://www.atf.gov/resource-center/docs/guide/department-treasury-study-sporting-suitability-modified-semiautomatic/download</ref> The gun had a gray [[parkerized]] finish,<ref name="ASR"/> a {{convert|410|mm|in}} carbine-length barrel and is {{convert|800|mm|in}} overall.


===TK-K12===
===TK-K12===
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== Users ==
== Users ==
[[File:Uzi Users.png|thumb|A map with users of the Uzi in blue]]
[[File:Uzi Users.png|thumb|A map with users of the Uzi in blue]]
{{div col|colwidth=30em}}
{{div col}}
 
=== Africa ===
=== Africa ===
* {{flag|Algeria}}<ref name= 'bicc'>{{cite web|title=MP UZI|url=https://salw-guide.bicc.de/en/weapon/view/20|website=SALW Guide: Global distribution and visual identification|author1=Bonn International Center for Conversion|author-link1=Bonn International Center for Conversion|author2=Bundeswehr Verification Center|access-date=31 August 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180831035754/https://salw-guide.bicc.de/en/weapon/view/20|archive-date=31 August 2018|url-status=live}}</ref>
* {{flag|Algeria}}<ref name= 'bicc'>{{cite web|title=MP UZI|url=https://salw-guide.bicc.de/en/weapon/view/20|website=SALW Guide: Global distribution and visual identification|author1=Bonn International Center for Conversion|author-link1=Bonn International Center for Conversion|author2=Bundeswehr Verification Center|access-date=31 August 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180831035754/https://salw-guide.bicc.de/en/weapon/view/20|archive-date=31 August 2018|url-status=live}}</ref>
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* {{flag|Sierra Leone}}: Croatian made Ero and Mini-Ero in use.<ref>{{cite web|title=World Infantry Weapons: Sierra Leone|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161124203938/https://sites.google.com/site/worldinventory/wiw_af_sierraleone|archive-date=24 November 2016|url=https://sites.google.com/site/worldinventory/wiw_af_sierraleone|date=2013}}{{self-published source|date=January 2019}}</ref>
* {{flag|Sierra Leone}}: Croatian made Ero and Mini-Ero in use.<ref>{{cite web|title=World Infantry Weapons: Sierra Leone|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161124203938/https://sites.google.com/site/worldinventory/wiw_af_sierraleone|archive-date=24 November 2016|url=https://sites.google.com/site/worldinventory/wiw_af_sierraleone|date=2013}}{{self-published source|date=January 2019}}</ref>
*{{flag|Somalia}}<ref name="jones2009"/>
*{{flag|Somalia}}<ref name="jones2009"/>
*{{flag|South Africa}}:<ref name="diez2000"/> Manufactured under license.<ref name= 'bicc'/>
*{{flag|South Africa}}:<ref name="diez2000"/> Manufactured under license as the S1 by [[Denel Land Systems|Lyttelton Engineering Works]].<ref name="book"/><ref name= 'bicc'/><ref>https://www.uzitalk.com/reference/pages/timeline-good.htm</ref>
*{{flag|Sudan}}<ref name="jones2009"/>
*{{flag|Sudan}}<ref name="jones2009"/>
*{{flag|Togo}}<ref name="jones2009"/>
*{{flag|Togo}}<ref name="jones2009"/>
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*{{flag|Iran}}<ref name="miller2001"/>
*{{flag|Iran}}<ref name="miller2001"/>
*{{flag|Israel}}: Uzi and Mini Uzi variants.<ref name="jones2009"/> Mini Uzi variant was used by the [[YAMAM]] elite unit and [[Shin Bet]].<ref name="meyr1999">{{cite web|url=http://www.janes.com/security/law_enforcement/news/ipi/ipi0312.shtml |archive-url=https://archive.today/20080301103639/http://www.janes.com/security/law_enforcement/news/ipi/ipi0312.shtml |url-status=dead |archive-date=1 March 2008 |title=Special Weapons for Counter-terrorist Units |author=Meyr, Eitan |date=6 January 1999 |publisher=Jane's&nbsp;— Law Enforcement |access-date=2009-09-26 }}</ref>
*{{flag|Israel}}: Uzi and Mini Uzi variants.<ref name="jones2009"/> Mini Uzi variant was used by the [[YAMAM]] elite unit and [[Shin Bet]].<ref name="meyr1999">{{cite web|url=http://www.janes.com/security/law_enforcement/news/ipi/ipi0312.shtml |archive-url=https://archive.today/20080301103639/http://www.janes.com/security/law_enforcement/news/ipi/ipi0312.shtml |url-status=dead |archive-date=1 March 2008 |title=Special Weapons for Counter-terrorist Units |author=Meyr, Eitan |date=6 January 1999 |publisher=Jane's&nbsp;— Law Enforcement |access-date=2009-09-26 }}</ref>
*{{flag|Malaysia}}: Used by [[Special Actions Unit (Malaysia)|Unit Tindakan Khas]]<ref>{{cite web|url=https://defencesecurityasia.com/uzi-senjata-utk-agong/|title=(VIDEO) UZI PRO Sub-Machine Gun Ke Itu???|language=Malay|date=4 September 2023|publisher=Defense Security Asia}}</ref>
*{{flag|Myanmar}}: Locally produced under model number BA93 (wooden stock) and BA94 with, used mainly by Myanmar Police Force and Special Operation Task Force.<ref name="jones2009"/>
*{{flag|Myanmar}}: Locally produced under model number BA93 (wooden stock) and BA94 with, used mainly by Myanmar Police Force and Special Operation Task Force.<ref name="jones2009"/>
*{{flag|Philippines}}<ref name="jones2009"/>
*{{flag|Philippines}}<ref name="jones2009"/>
Line 327: Line 326:


=== South America ===
=== South America ===
*{{flag|Argentina}}<ref name= 'bicc'/>
*{{flag|Argentina}}<ref name= 'bicc'/>
*{{flag|Bolivia}}<ref name="jones2009"/>
*{{flag|Bolivia}}<ref name="jones2009"/>
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*{{flag|Uruguay}}<ref name="jones2009"/>
*{{flag|Uruguay}}<ref name="jones2009"/>
*{{flag|Venezuela}}<ref name="miller2001"/><ref name="jones2009"/>
*{{flag|Venezuela}}<ref name="miller2001"/><ref name="jones2009"/>
{{div col end}}


=== Non-state users ===
=== Non-state users ===
* [[File:Provisional Irish Republican Army Badge.svg|20px]] [[Provisional Irish Republican Army]]<ref name="PIRA">{{cite web |title=Iris, No. 7 |url=https://www.leftarchive.ie/document/view/382/ |publisher=Sinn Féin |access-date=22 August 2023 |date=1983}}</ref><ref name="PIRA (2)">{{cite web |title=Where did the Adidas Tracksuit Wearing IRA Gunmen Get Their Gear? |url=https://reaperfeed.com/where-did-the-adidas-tracksuit-wearing-ira-gunmen-get-their-gear/ |access-date=22 August 2023 |date=14 September 2020}}</ref>
* [[File:Provisional Irish Republican Army Badge.svg|20px]] [[Provisional Irish Republican Army]]<ref name="PIRA">{{cite web |title=Iris, No. 7 |url=https://www.leftarchive.ie/document/view/382/ |publisher=Sinn Féin |access-date=22 August 2023 |date=1983}}</ref><ref name="PIRA (2)">{{cite web |title=Where did the Adidas Tracksuit Wearing IRA Gunmen Get Their Gear? |url=https://reaperfeed.com/where-did-the-adidas-tracksuit-wearing-ira-gunmen-get-their-gear/ |access-date=22 August 2023 |date=14 September 2020}}</ref>
{{div col end}}


== Gallery ==
== Gallery ==
<gallery>
<gallery>
File:Wwwm8173.JPG|An Uzi-armed Israeli on guard duty in the [[Negev]] (1956), note wooden stock
File:Wwwm8173.JPG|An Uzi-armed Israeli [[Israeli settler|settler]] on guard duty in the [[Negev]] (1956), note wooden stock
File:IDF parade 1958.jpeg|Israeli paratroopers armed with Uzis in 1958
File:IDF parade 1958.jpeg|Israeli paratroopers armed with Uzis in 1958
Image:Imi uzi b22.jpg|An Uzi submachine gun
Image:Imi uzi b22.jpg|An Uzi submachine gun
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==See also==
==See also==
{{Portal|Israel}}
{{Portal|Israel}}
* [[ASMI]]
* [[Colt 9mm SMG]]
* [[Daewoo Telecom K7]]
* [[FB PM-63]]
* [[List of equipment of the Israel Defense Forces]]
* [[List of equipment of the Israel Defense Forces]]
* [[MAC-10]]
* {{annotated link|ASMI}}
* [[Minebea PM-9]]
* {{annotated link|Colt 9mm SMG}}
* [[Modern Sub Machine Carbine]]
* {{annotated link|Daewoo Telecom K7}}
* [[MP7]]
* {{annotated link|FB PM-63}}
* [[PM-84 Glauberyt]]
* {{annotated link|MAC-10}}
* [[PP-2000]]
* {{annotated link|Minebea PM-9}}
* [[Ruger MP9]]
* {{annotated link|Modern Sub Machine Carbine}}
* [[Sa vz. 23]]
* {{annotated link|MP7}}
* [[SR-2 Veresk]]
* {{annotated link|PM-84 Glauberyt}}
* {{annotated link|PP-2000}}
* {{annotated link|Ruger MP9}}
* {{annotated link|SR-2 Veresk}}


== References ==
== References ==
{{Reflist|30em|refs=
{{Reflist|30em|refs=
<ref name="mcnab2011">{{cite book|last=McNab|first=Chris|title=The Uzi Submachine Gun|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=KXwGPezNkygC&pg=PA20|date=20 Nov 2011|publisher=Osprey Publishing|isbn=978-1-84908-543-4}}</ref>
 
}}
<ref name="mcnab2011">
{{cite book
|last     = McNab
|first     = Chris
|title     = The Uzi Submachine Gun
|url       = https://books.google.com/books?id=KXwGPezNkygC&pg=PA20
|date     = 20 Nov 2011
|publisher = Osprey Publishing
|isbn     = 978-1-84908-543-4
}}</ref>
 
}}<!-- end of reflist -->


== External links ==
== External links ==
{{Commons}}
{{Commons}}
* [https://web.archive.org/web/20160305042125/http://www.israel-weapon.com/default.asp?catid=%7Bdf9b961e-1b6b-4dc0-aca9-351c57fabc5b%7D Israel Weapon Industries (IWI): Mini Uzi & Micro Uzi]
* [https://web.archive.org/web/20160305042125/http://www.israel-weapon.com/default.asp?catid=%7Bdf9b961e-1b6b-4dc0-aca9-351c57fabc5b%7D Israel Weapon Industries (IWI): Mini Uzi & Micro Uzi]
* [https://modernfirearms.net/en/submachine-guns/israel-submachine-guns/uzi-pro-eng/ Uzi Pro] at Modern Firearms
* [http://www.uzitalk.com Uzi History, Reference Material, Parts, Discussion Forum]
* [http://www.uzitalk.com Uzi History, Reference Material, Parts, Discussion Forum]
* [http://www.bimbel.de/artikel/artikel-13.html Uzi in Parts] {{in lang|de}}
* [http://www.bimbel.de/artikel/artikel-13.html Uzi in Parts] {{in lang|de}}
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[[Category:Weapons and ammunition introduced in 1954]]
[[Category:Weapons and ammunition introduced in 1954]]
[[Category:Post–Cold War weapons of Myanmar]]
[[Category:Post–Cold War weapons of Myanmar]]
[[Category:Words and phrases in Modern Hebrew]]
[[Category:Israel Weapon Industries]]

Latest revision as of 03:12, 9 November 2025

Template:Short description Script error: No such module "other uses". Script error: No such module "Infobox".Template:Template otherScript error: No such module "Check for unknown parameters".

The Uzi (Template:IPAc-en; Template:Langx; officially cased as UZI) is a family of Israeli open-bolt, blowback-operated submachine guns and machine pistols first designed by Major Uziel "Uzi" Gal in the late 1940s, shortly after the establishment of the State of Israel. It is one of the first weapons to incorporate a telescoping bolt design, which allows the magazine to be housed in the pistol grip for a shorter weapon.

The Uzi prototype was finished in 1950. It was first introduced to Israel Defense Forces (IDF) special forces in 1954, and the weapon was placed into general issue two years later. The IDF supplied Uzis to rear-echelon troops, officers, artillery troops and tank crews, as well as a frontline weapon by elite light infantry assault forces.

The Uzi has been exported to over 90 countries.[1] Over its service lifetime, it has been manufactured by Israel Military Industries, FN Herstal, and other manufacturers. From the 1960s through to the 1980s, more Uzi submachine guns were sold to more military, law enforcement and security markets than any other submachine gun ever made.[2]

Design

File:Uzi Gal.jpg
Uziel Gal, the designer and inventor of the Uzi submachine gun

The Uzi uses an open-bolt, blowback-operated design, quite similar to the Jaroslav Holeček-designed Czech ZK 476 (prototype only)[3] and the production Sa 23, Sa 24, Sa 25, and Sa 26 series of submachine guns introduced in 1948. The open bolt design exposes the barrel's breech end, improving cooling after periods of continuous fire. However, it means that since the bolt is held to the rear when cocked, the receiver is more susceptible to contamination from sand and dirt. It uses a telescoping bolt design, in which the bolt wraps around the breech end of the barrel.[4] This allows the barrel to be moved far back into the receiver and the magazine to be housed in the pistol grip, allowing for a heavier, slower-firing bolt in a shorter, better-balanced weapon.[2]

The weapon is constructed primarily from stamped sheet metal, making it less expensive per unit to manufacture than an equivalent design machined from forgings. With relatively few moving parts, the Uzi is easy to strip for maintenance or repair. The magazine is housed within the pistol grip, allowing for intuitive and easy reloading in dark or difficult conditions, under the principle of "hand finds hand". The pistol grip is fitted with a grip safety, making it difficult to fire accidentally. However, the protruding vertical magazine makes the gun awkward to fire when prone.[4] The Uzi features a bayonet lug.[5]

Operation

The non-reciprocating charging handle on the top of the receiver cover is used to retract the bolt. Variants have a ratchet safety mechanism which will catch the bolt and lock its movement if it is retracted past the magazine, but not far enough to engage the sear. When the handle is fully retracted to the rear, the bolt will cock (catch) on the sear mechanism and the handle and cover are released to spring fully forward under power of a small spring. The cover will remain forward during firing since it does not reciprocate with the bolt. The military and police versions will fire immediately upon chambering a cartridge as the Uzi is an open bolt weapon.

There are two external safety mechanisms on the Uzi. The first is the three-position selector lever located at the top of the grip and behind the trigger group. The rear position is "S", or "safe" (S = Sicher or Secure on the MP2), which locks the sear and prevents movement of the bolt.

The second external safety mechanism is the grip safety, which is located at the rear of the grip. It is meant to help prevent accidental discharge if the weapon is dropped or the user loses a firm grip on the weapon during firing.

The trigger mechanism is a conventional firearm trigger, but functions only to control the release mechanism for either the bolt (submachine gun) or firing pin holding mechanism (semi-auto) since the Uzi does not incorporate an internal cocking or hammer mechanism. While the open-bolt system is mechanically simpler than a closed-bolt design (e.g. Heckler & Koch MP5), it creates a noticeable delay between when the trigger is pulled and when the gun fires.

The magazine release button or lever is located on the lower portion of the pistol grip and is intended to be manipulated by the non-firing hand. The paddle-like button lies flush with the pistol grip in order to help prevent accidental release of the magazine during rigorous or careless handling.

When the gun is de-cocked the ejector port closes, preventing entry of dust and dirt. Though the Uzi's stamped-metal receiver is equipped with pressed reinforcement slots to accept accumulated dirt and sand, the weapon can still jam with heavy accumulations of sand in desert combat conditions when not cleaned regularly.[6] The magazine must be removed prior to de-cocking the weapon.

Stocks

File:1952 General von Horn IMI Uzi 001 (cropped).jpg
Uzi with a detachable wooden stock
File:UZI Submachine Gun (7414624230).jpg
Uzi with a folding stock

There are different stocks available for the Uzi proper.[7] There is a wooden stock with a metal buttplate that comes in three similar variations that were used by the IDF. The first version had a flat butt and straight comb and had hollows for a cleaning rod and gun oil bottle. The second had an angled butt and a straight comb and no hollows. The third had an angled butt and curved comb and no hollows; a polymer version is currently available from IMI. The wooden stocks originally had a quick-release base but the ones sold in the United States often had a permanent base for legal reasons, as detachable stocks on pistols or other short-barreled weapons upgrade the weapon to NFA status.[8][9]

Choate made an aftermarket polymer stock with a rubber butt-pad that had a flat butt, a straight comb, and a permanent base.

In 1956,[10] IMI developed a downward-folding twin-strut metal stock with two swivelling sections that tuck under the rear of the receiver. The Mini Uzi has a forward-folding single-strut metal stock that is actually an inch longer than the Uzi's. Its buttplate can be used as a foregrip when stowed. The Micro Uzi has a similar model.

Magazines

The original box magazines for the 9mm Uzi had a 25-round capacity. Experimental 40- and 50-round extended magazines were tried but were found to be unreliable. A 32-round extended magazine was then tried and was later accepted as standard. The Mini Uzi and Micro Uzi use a shorter 20-round magazine. Available extended magazines include 40-, and 50-round magazines. Other high-capacity aftermarket magazines exist such as the Vector Arms 70-round and Beta Company (Beta C-Mag) 100-round drums.

The .45 ACP Uzi used a 16- or 22-round magazine, while the .45 ACP Micro Uzi and Mini Uzi used a 12-round magazine. A conversion kit by Vector Arms allowed the .45-caliber Uzi to use the same 30-round magazines as the M3 "Grease Gun".Template:R

Caliber conversions

The Uzi was available with caliber conversion kits in .22 LR or .41 AE. The operator just has to change the barrel, bolt and magazine. The .22 LR had 20-round magazines; the original IMI kit used a barrel insert while the aftermarket Action Arms kit used a full replacement barrel. The .41 AE also had a 20-round magazine; since it has the same bolt face as the 9×19mm Parabellum, only the barrel and magazine needed to be changed.Template:R

IMI also manufactured a .45ACP conversion kit both in full auto/open bolt with a 10.2" barrel for the 9mm SMG and a semi only/closed bolt with a 16" barrel for the carbine version. Magazine capacity is limited, with 2 sizes of 16 and 10 rds each.

History and operational use

A soldier with an Uzi next to a road sign reading "ISMAILIA 36"
An Israeli soldier with an Uzi during the Yom Kippur War (1973)
File:PikiWiki Israel 12768 IDF parade in Jerusalem in 1968.jpg
Israeli soldiers on parade with Uzis, Jerusalem, 1968

The Uzi submachine gun was designed by Captain (later Major) Uziel Gal of the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) following the 1948 Arab–Israeli War. The weapon was submitted to the Israeli Army for evaluation and won out over more conventional designs due to its simplicity and economy of manufacture. Gal did not want the weapon to be named after him, but his request was ignored. The Uzi was officially adopted in 1951. First introduced to IDF special forces in 1954, the weapon was placed into general issue two years later. The first Uzis were equipped with a short, fixed wooden buttstock, and this is the version that initially saw combat during the 1956 Suez Campaign. Later models would be equipped with a folding metal stock.[6]

The Uzi was used as a personal defense weapon by rear-echelon troops, officers, artillery troops and tankers, as well as a frontline weapon by elite light infantry assault forces. The Uzi's compact size and firepower proved instrumental in clearing Syrian bunkers and Jordanian defensive positions during the 1967 Six-Day War. Though the weapon was phased out of frontline IDF service in the 1980s, some Uzis and Uzi variants were still used by a few IDF units until December 2003, when the IDF announced that it was retiring the Uzi from all IDF forces.[11] It was subsequently replaced by the fully automatic Micro Tavor.

In general, the Uzi was a reliable weapon in military service. However, even the Uzi fell victim to extreme conditions of sand and dust. During the Sinai Campaign of the Yom Kippur War, IDF Army units reaching the Suez Canal reported that of all their small arms, only the 7.62mm FN MAG machine gun was still in operation.[12]

The Uzi proved especially useful for mechanized infantry needing a compact weapon and for infantry units clearing bunkers and other confined spaces. However, its limited range and accuracy in automatic fire (approximately Template:Convert) could be disconcerting when encountering enemy forces armed with longer-range small arms, and heavier support weapons could not always substitute for a longer-ranged individual weapon. These failings eventually caused the phasing out of the Uzi from IDF front-line assault units.[11]

The Uzi has been used in various conflicts outside Israel and the Middle East during the 1960s and 1970s. Quantities of 9 mm Uzi submachine guns were used by Portuguese cavalry, police, and security forces during the Portuguese Colonial Wars in Africa.[6]

Worldwide sales

File:Reagan assassination attempt 4 crop.jpg
Secret Service agents cover Press Secretary James Brady and police officer Thomas Delahanty during the assassination attempt of President Ronald Reagan by John Hinckley Jr. on March 30, 1981. Secret Service agent Robert Wanko unfolds the stock of an Uzi in case of further attack.

Total sales of the weapon to date (end of 2001) has netted IMI over 2 billion US dollars, with over 90 countries using the weapons either for their armed forces or in law enforcement.[2]

  • The Royal Netherlands Army first issued the Uzi in 1956. It was the first country other than Israel to use it as a service weapon. Their models are distinct in that they have a wooden stock (made to their specifications) that is more angular, an angled butt and a curved comb, and is 2 inches longer than the IDF model. The wooden stock versions were mainly used by the Royal Netherlands Navy and the Marine Corps. The Army and Airforce received the metal foldable stock versions as replacement. No bayonets were issued.
  • The German Bundeswehr (especially its tank crews) used the Uzi since 1959 under the designation MP2.[13][14] It replaced the MP1 (Beretta M1938/49) and Thompson M1 in service. The MP2 was fitted with the IDF-style wooden stock and the later MP2A1 was fitted with the metal folding stock. It can be recognized by its distinctive three-position "DES" selector switch: "D" for "Dauerfeuer" ("continuous-fire", or "automatic"), "E" for "Einzelfeuer" ("single-fire", or "semi-automatic"), and "S" for "Sicher" ("secure", or "safe"). It was replaced with the Heckler & Koch MP7 Personal Defense Weapon in 2007.[14] Most of the Uzis used in Germany consisted of receivers with Israeli markings and grips made by FN.[14]
  • The Belgian Armed Forces have used Uzi machine pistols in 9mm, .45 ACP and 22LR calibres, license-made by FN Herstal from 1958 to 1971.[15] They were also issued to the paramilitary Gendarmerie.[16]
  • The Irish Gardaí ERU and RSU were issued the Uzi from the 1970s to 2012. It was replaced with the Heckler & Koch MP7 in March 2014.[17]
  • In Rhodesia, the Uzi was produced under license from 1976 until the fall of Rhodesia in 1980. It was made from Israeli-supplied (and later Rhodesian-made) components.
  • Sri Lanka ordered a few thousand Mini Uzi and Uzi carbines in 1990s. Currently those are deployed with the Sri Lanka Army, Sri Lanka Navy Elite Forces, and the Sri Lanka Police Special Task Force as their primary weapon when providing security for VIPs.
  • The United States Secret Service used the Uzi as their standard submachine gun from the 1960s until the early 1990s, when it was phased out and replaced with the Heckler & Koch MP5 and FN P90. When President Ronald Reagan was shot on March 30, 1981, Secret Service Special Agent Robert Wanko pulled an Uzi out of a briefcase and covered the rear of the presidential limousine as it sped to safety with the wounded president inside.[2]
  • All merchant mariners of the Zim Integrated Shipping line are trained in the use of, and issued, the Uzi.[18]

Military variants

File:Uzi 2.jpg
A Mini Uzi
File:COIM in Ancon 2010-07-19.JPG
Argentine special forces with a Micro Uzi
File:IWI UZI.jpg
Uzi Pro

The standard Uzi has a Template:Convert barrel. It has a rate of automatic fire of 600 rounds per minute (rpm) when chambered in 9mm Parabellum; the .45 ACP model's rate of fire is slower at 500 rpm.[6]

The Mini Uzi is a smaller version of the regular Uzi, first introduced in 1980. The Mini Uzi is Template:Convert long or Template:Convert long with the stock folded. Its barrel length is Template:Convert, its muzzle velocity is Template:Convert and its effective range is Template:Convert. It has a greater automatic rate of fire of 950 rounds per minute due to the shorter bolt. Its weight is approximately Template:Convert.[6]

The Micro Uzi is an even further scaled down version of the Uzi, introduced in 1986. The Micro Uzi is Template:Convert long, reduced to Template:Convert with the stock folded, and its barrel length is Template:Convert. It has a closed bolt compared to its original counterpart.[19] Its muzzle velocity is Template:Convert and its cyclic rate of fire is 1,200 rpm. It weighs slightly over Template:Convert.[6]

The Uzi Pro, an improved variant of the Micro Uzi, was launched in 2010 by Israel Weapon Industries Ltd. (I.W.I.), formerly the magen ("small arms") division of Israel Military Industries. The Uzi Pro is a blowback-operated, select-fire, closed-bolt submachine gun with a large lower portion, comprising grip and handguard, entirely made of polymer to reduce weight; the grip section was redesigned to allow two-handed operation and facilitate control in full-automatic fire of such a small-sized firearm. The Uzi Pro features four Picatinny rails, two at the sides of the barrel, which can be removed, one below the barrel for the addition of foregrips and one on the top for optics. The under barrel rail is often shown with a specialised foregrip which attaches to the pistol grip to form a handguard. In addition, the cocking handle has been moved to the left side.[20] The new weapon weighs Template:Convert and has a length of Template:Convert with an extended stock,[21] and Template:Convert while collapsed. As of 2011 it has been purchased by the IDF in limited numbers for evaluation and it is yet to be decided whether or not to order additional units for all of its special forces.[21][22]

Civilian variants

Uzi carbine

The Uzi carbine is similar in appearance to the Uzi submachine gun. The Uzi carbine is fitted with a Template:Convert barrel, to meet the minimum rifle barrel length requirement for civilian sales in the United States. A small number of Uzi carbines were produced with the standard length barrel for special markets. It fires from a closed-bolt position in semi-automatic mode only and uses a floating firing pin as opposed to a fixed firing pin.[12] The FS-style selector switch has two positions (the automatic setting was blocked): "F" for "fire" (semi-auto) and "S" for "safe". Uzi carbines are available in .22 LR, 9mm, .41 AE, and .45 ACP calibers.

The Uzi carbine has two main variants, the Model A (imported from 1980 to 1983) and the Model B (imported from 1983 until 1989). The Type A was the same as the fully automatic Uzi, while the Type B had a firing pin safety and improved sights and sling swivels. These two variants were imported and distributed by Action Arms.[12]

The American firm Group Industries made limited numbers of a copy of the Uzi "B" model semiauto carbine for sale in the US along with copies of the Uzi submachine gun for the U.S. collectors' market. After registering several hundred submachine guns transferable to the general public through a special government-regulated process, production was halted due to financial troubles at the company. Company assets (including partially made Uzi submachine guns, parts, and tooling) were purchased by an investment group later to become known as Vektor Arms. Vektor Arms built and marketed numerous versions of the Uzi carbine and the Mini Uzi.[23] As of 2024, average prices can be over $25,000.00 USD.[24]

Today, while the civilian manufacture, sale and possession of post-1986 select-fire Uzi and its variants is prohibited in the United States, it is still legal to sell templates, tooling and manuals to complete such conversion. These items are typically marketed as being "post-sample" materials for use by federal firearm licensees for manufacturing/distributing select-fire variants of the Uzi to law enforcement, military and overseas customers.[25]

Mini Uzi carbine

The Mini Uzi carbine is similar in appearance to the Mini Uzi machine pistol. The Mini Uzi carbine is fitted with a Template:Convert barrel, to meet the minimum rifle overall length requirement for civilian sales in the United States. It fires from a closed-bolt position in semi-automatic mode only.[12]

Uzi pistol

File:Uzimicro.jpg
An Uzi pistol with a 20-round magazine

The Uzi pistol is a semi-automatic, closed bolt, and blowback-operated pistol variant. Its muzzle velocity is 345 m/s. It is a Micro Uzi with no shoulder stock or full-automatic firing capability. The intended users of the pistol are various security agencies in need of a high-capacity semi-automatic pistol, or civilian shooters who want a gun with those qualities and the familiarity of the Uzi style. It was introduced in 1984 and produced until 1993.[6]

Uzi Pro pistol

The Uzi Pro pistol is a current version of the Uzi pistol. It has rails on the top and bottom, and there is an optional stabilizing brace. Unlike any other Uzi variant, the Uzi Pro pistol has a side charging handle, rather than a top charging handle, and has a three-stage safety. There are three safeties on the Uzi Pro pistol: a thumb safety, a grip safety, and a firing pin block. This model was intended for law enforcement and civilian use, due to the compact size, rails, and a semi-automatic rate of fire. Unlike other Uzi variants, the Uzi Pro pistol is only chambered for 9×19 Parabellum.

Copies

AG Strojnica ERO

File:Strojnica ERO.jpg
Strojnica ERO

The Arma Grupa Strojnica ERO (Arms Group "ERO machine-gun") was a Croatian Uzi clone made locally by Arma Grupa of Zagreb during the Yugoslav War. It was made entirely from steel stampings, causing it to weigh more (Template:Convert).[26] The only difference from the Uzi is the selector switch, which is marked "R" (Rafalno {"burst"}, for full automatic fire), "P" (Pojedinačno, for single shot) and "Z" (Zaključan {locked}, for safe) and its rate of fire is 650 rounds per minute. It uses the 32-round magazine as standard, but can use any 9mm Uzi-interface magazine of 25 rounds or larger.

The Strojnica Mini ERO is a clone of the Micro Uzi; it differs in that it had a heavy-gauge folding wire stock like the Skorpion Machine Pistol. It weighs Template:Convert unloaded and is Template:Convert overall with the folding stock extended and Template:Convert with the stock folded. It uses the 20-round Mini Uzi magazine.

The EROs were used by the Croatians as early as 1992.[27]

BA93 and BA94

The BA93 and BA94 are Myanmar made clones of the Uzi.[28] Production started in Myanmar after 1991 when an Israeli delegation visited the country and supplied the Tatmadaw with Uzis.[29][30] It also included the rights to manufacture the Uzi under license.[31]

The BA93 is based on the Uzi, but with a longer barrel and fixed stock.[32] It was introduced in 1993.[31] It is commonly seen with Myanmar soldiers and special forces units operating in commando or VIP protection operations.[31]

The BA94 was introduced in 1994.[33] Improvements made include moving the charging handle from the top to the left with a shorter barrel.[31] This model is mostly seen with Myanma police forces.[31]

As of 2018, both weapons were renamed MA-13.[32]

Socimi Type 821

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Norinco Model 320

Norinco of China manufactures an unlicensed copy of the Uzi Model B that is sold as the Model 320.[34] Early versions were marked "POLICE Model" in English. Modifications were made to avoid the US Assault Weapon Import Ban: the folding stock was replaced with a wooden thumbhole stock, the barrel nut was welded in place, and the bayonet lug was removed.[35] The gun had a gray parkerized finish,[34] a Template:Convert carbine-length barrel and is Template:Convert overall.

TK-K12

The TK-K12 (or TL-K12) is a Vietnamese clone of the IMI Micro Uzi since 2013.[36]

Zastava M97

The Zastava M97 is a Serbian clone of the Mini Uzi.[37] Two variants consist of the M97 with an Template:Convert barrel and the M97K with a Template:Convert barrel and no folding stock with a vertical foregrip permanent attached.[37][38]

Hamas clone

From 1993 to 1996, Hamas manufactured a total of 350 Uzi clones, until its production was dismantled by the Palestinian Security Services' intelligence unit led by Moussa Arafat.[39]

Users

File:Uzi Users.png
A map with users of the Uzi in blue

Template:Div col

Africa

Asia

Europe

North and central America

Oceania

South America

Non-state users

Template:Div col end

Gallery

See also

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References

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External links

Template:Sister project

Template:IMI IWI smallarms Template:USAF Weapons Template:Authority control

  1. ↑ Cite error: Invalid <ref> tag; no text was provided for refs named mcmanners2003
  2. ↑ a b c d Script error: No such module "Citation/CS1".
  3. ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  4. ↑ a b Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  5. ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  6. ↑ a b c d e f g Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  7. ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  8. ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  9. ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  10. ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  11. ↑ a b Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  12. ↑ a b c d e Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  13. ↑ a b http://wwww.gunmountain.com/display.article.cfm?idarticles=3884
  14. ↑ a b c https://smallarmsreview.com/weapon-of-service-the-uzi-submachine-gun-in-germany/
  15. ↑ https://armourersbench.com/2023/05/14/uzi-in-ukraine/
  16. ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  17. ↑ "Gardaí feel like ‘sitting ducks’ after decision to withdraw Uzi submachine guns" Template:Webarchive, TheJournal.ie, March 23, 2015
  18. ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
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  20. ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  21. ↑ a b Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  22. ↑ Template:Cite magazine
  23. ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  24. ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
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  26. ↑ Fowler, Will; North, Anthony; Stronge, Charles; and Sweeney, Patrick. The Illustrated Encyclopedia of GUNS (New York: Metro Books, 2013), p.242.
  27. ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
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  29. ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  30. ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  31. ↑ a b c d e Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  32. ↑ a b Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  33. ↑ Asian Military Review - March 2010, Page 15.
  34. ↑ a b http://archive.smallarmsreview.com/display.article.cfm?idarticles=1411
  35. ↑ https://www.atf.gov/resource-center/docs/guide/department-treasury-study-sporting-suitability-modified-semiautomatic/download
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  38. ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
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  40. ↑ a b c d e f g h i j k l m Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  41. ↑ a b c d e f g h i j k l m n o p q r s t u v w x y z aa ab ac ad ae af ag ah ai aj ak al am an ao ap aq ar as at Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  42. ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  43. ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  44. ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  45. ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  46. ↑ a b c d e f Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
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  48. ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".Template:Self-published source
  49. ↑ https://www.uzitalk.com/reference/pages/timeline-good.htm
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  57. ↑ Improvement, Modernization and Development for Special Operation Weapons (Cải tiến, hiện đại hóa, phát triển vũ khí đặc công, in Vietnamese) Template:Webarchive
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  63. ↑ Italian Ministry of Interior - Decree n° 559/A/1/ORG/DIP.GP/14 of March 6, 2009, concerning weapons and equipments in use with the Italian National Police - in Italian Template:Webarchive Retrieved on August 25, 2010.
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  72. ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
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  74. ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
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