Long Range Subgun Use; Definitions
Agreed with Correia to a limited extent:
. . . the inability to hit stuff at longer ranges with a subgun isn't really a function of the size of the weapon, more of the amount of drop of the bullets at those ranges . . .
But I really think it is more a function of the fact that most subguns operate from an open bolt. The bolt mass slamming forward is not conducive to pinpoint accuracy. Given a closed bolt, it is a different matter: With a little practice on semi, you can do some amazing stuff with am MP-5. Hits on a silhouette target at 100 yards are easily made, and good results at 200 are possible.
Actually, even with an open bolt, like a Thompson or Uzi, if you can arrange a rest, three to five hits out of ten shots at 200 are possible with practice. Hit probability shooting in this manner is much higher than just flinging bursts of half-aimed full auto fire downrange.
As to the curved trajectory, I doubt that the trajectory curve of a .45 ACP at 200 is much greater than that of a .45-70 at 400. Sorry, I don't have the figures available to prove my point. But I believe it has more to do with the precision of the sights and willingness of the shooter to practice the task, than of the inherent accuracy of the cartridge, or the arc of the trajectory. Just look at what the artillerymen can do with howitzers, given proper aiming points and the math. I think it was Elmer Keith who pointed out that the relationship of bore diameter to barrel length, artillery piece to a handgun, is rather similar. The difference is the precision of the "mount" and the "emplacement."
Shooter 90--Full agreement as to the muzzle blast of the HK-51, but--no disrespect here-- it is not a submachine gun, any more than is a 1919 Browning belt-fed with the barrel lopped to under a foot in length. It is just a short barreled machine gun, full rifle caliber and all.
Merry Christmas & Happy Holidays to all - - -
Johnny