Submachinegun Beretta mod.12 was developed in 1959 by Pietro Beretta Spa., Italy. Later, the variant 12s was developed. Mod.12 and 12s had been adopted by Italian army, Carabineri, and by some other military and police agencies around the world.
M12 is a recoil operated, select-fire firearm, firing from open bolt. Firing pin is fixed to the bolt. The bolt "sleeves" around the rear part of the barrel to reduce the overall lenght and barrel jumping during the full-auto fire. The receiver, both handles and magazine veil is made from stamped steel. The charging handle is located at the left side. M12S has automatic safety at the front side of the grip, as well as 3 position safety/fire selector (M12 had pushbutton-style safety switch). M12 may be equipped with either side folding metallic stock or fixed stock.
Weapontype: Submachine Gun
Manufacturer: Fabbrica D`Armi Pietro Beretta S.p.A. Via Pietro Beretta, 18, 25063 Gardone Val Trompia, Brescia, Italy, Tel +39.030.8341.1, Fax +39.030.8341399
Cartridge: 9 x 19 mm Luger/Parabellum
Weight: (Unloaded) 3 kg (M12), 3.2 kg (M12S)
Length: (stock closed/open): 418 mm / 645 mm (M12) 660 mm (M12S)
Barrel: 200 mm
Rifling: 6 grooves, rh
Magazine Capacity: 20, 30 or 40 rounds (M12), 20, 32 or 40 rounds (M12S)