Introduction
The MAS 49/56 is a semi-automatic rifle designed and produced in France by Manufacture d’Armes de Saint-Étienne (MAS). Introduced in 1956, it is a modernized version of the MAS 49, with several improvements designed to make the weapon lighter, more compact and more versatile. Used by the French army until its replacement by the FAMAS in the 1970s, it has seen service in many conflicts and remains a popular weapon with collectors and marksmen alike.
History of MAS 49/56
Development context
After the Second World War, France adopted the MAS 49, a modern semi-automatic rifle designed to replace the repeating weapons used until then. However, the conflicts in Indochina and Algeria revealed several limitations of the MAS 49, notably its weight and bulk. In response, an improved version, better suited to the demands of modern combat, was developed: the MAS 49/56, adopted in 1956.
Use in conflicts
The MAS 49/56 was used by the French army in several military operations:
Algerian War (1954-1962)
Operations in Africa and the Middle East
UN peacekeeping operations
It remained in active service until the FAMAS was adopted in the late 1970s, although some units continued to use it in parallel during a transition period.
Technical data
| Caliber | 7.5×54 mm MAS |
|---|---|
| Weight | 3.85 kg |
| Overall length | 1,020 mm |
| Barrel length | 580 mm |
| Magazine capacity | 10 shots |
| Mechanism | Gas borrowing, cylinder head not stalled |
| Effective range | Approx. 600 metres |
| Materials | Steel, wood |
Improvements over MAS 49
The MAS 49/56 retains the reliable mechanics of the MAS 49 while incorporating several improvements:
Reduced weight and length: the rifle is easier to handle and better suited to modern combat.
Added muzzle brake: Reduces recoil and improves shooting stability.
Grenade launcher attachment system: For use with NATO rifle grenades.
Modified elevation: Facilitates target acquisition and improves accuracy.
Improved ergonomics: Adjustments for a more comfortable grip.
Comparison with other military rifles
| Model | Caliber | Weight (kg) | Barrel length (mm) | Capacity |
| MAS 49/56 | 7.5×54 mm MAS | 3,85 | 580 | 10 |
| MAS 49 | 7.5×54 mm MAS | 4,1 | 580 | 10 |
| M1 Garand | .30-06 Springfield | 4,3 | 610 | 8 |
| FN FAL | 7.62×51 mm NATO | 4,2 – 4,5 | 533 | 20 |
| HK G3 | 7.62×51 mm NATO | 4,4 | 450 | 20 |
Compared with the MAS 49, the MAS 49/56 is lighter and more compact, making it easier to use in the field. Compared with the FN FAL and HK G3, it remains a reliable semi-automatic rifle, but suffers from a smaller magazine capacity.
Contemporary use
Although no longer in active service, the MAS 49/56 remains popular with collectors and sport shooters. Its caliber and accuracy make it a popular rifle for long-distance shooting. Some paramilitary units and reserve forces also used it until the early 2000s.
Conclusion
The MAS 49/56 represents the final evolution of the French semi-automatic rifle before the arrival of modern assault rifles. Thanks to its ergonomic and tactical improvements, it was a key weapon in the French army between 1950 and 1970. Today, it remains an emblematic piece prized by historical weapons enthusiasts.
