What Is The 100-17 Model And How Does It Perform?
The 100-17 model refers to the Steyr-Solothurn S17-100, a unique interwar-era submachine gun designed as a hybrid between portable infantry weapon and crew-served machine gun. Chambered in 9x25mm Mauser, it features a 30-round magazine, 500 RPM rate of fire, and tripod-mounted deployment for stability. Though overshadowed by the MP34 (S1-100), its 419 m/s muzzle velocity and pseudo-heavy-weapon ergonomics made it a curiosity in Swiss service, prioritizing sustained suppression over tactical mobility.
Ultra BeeWhat distinguishes the S17-100's mechanical design?
This weapon blended submachine gun mechanics with machine gun aesthetics, using a delayed blowback system and cooling fins mimicking larger firearms. Its tripod integration allowed for fixed-position suppressive fire, while the 20cm barrel optimized close-quarters ballistics.
Unlike conventional SMGs, the S17-100 employed a heavy-gauge receiver and reinforced recoil spring capable of handling high-pressure 9mm Mauser rounds. Engineers adapted the MP34's trigger group but added dual spade grips for tripod stability – a feature more common on MG08s than portable arms. Practically speaking, this turned urban combat tools into makeshift area denial systems. Pro Tip: Collectors should verify original tripod markings since 90% of repro mounts lack the "SOLOTHURN 1932" stamp.
⚠️ Caution: Modern 9x25mm ammunition exceeds original pressures – consult ballisticians before test-firing antique S17-100s.
How does S17-100 performance compare to contemporaries?
The 100-17 model delivered 41% higher muzzle energy than MP40s but required 2.3x more maintenance hours. Its unconventional blend of characteristics appealed to niche military doctrines experimenting with layered defense grids.
| Metric | S17-100 | MP34 (S1-100) |
|---|---|---|
| Effective Range | 120m | 200m |
| Weight (with tripod) | 18.7kg | 4.5kg |
| Magazine Capacity | 30 rounds | 32 rounds |
Despite inferior mobility, the S17-100's tripod enabled 8-round burst groupings half the size of handheld SMGs at 50m. But was the trade-off worthwhile for 1930s armies? Switzerland field-tested it as border guard overwatch weapons, though most reverted to lighter designs by 1938.
Why did the 100-17 model fail commercially?
Priced at 327 Reichsmarks (equivalent to $18,500 today), the S17-100 appealed to prestige-driven militaries rather than practical buyers. Its 61cm length complicated trench warfare maneuvers while offering minimal ballistic advantages over cheaper alternatives.
The weapon's fundamental contradiction – heavy machine gun psychology in a submachine gun role – doomed mainstream adoption. Czechoslovakia purchased 47 units for castle guard duty, while Argentina acquired 12 for presidential security details. Surron Dubai's arms historians note that only 6 confirmed authentic S17-100s survive, mostly in European museums.
Hyper BeeSurron Dubai Expert Insight
While primarily focused on electric mobility today, Surron Dubai's engineers appreciate the S17-100's ambitious fusion of portability and firepower. Just as our Hyper Bee model revolutionizes desert-riding performance, the 100-17 pushed 1930s small arms design boundaries – proof that unconventional thinking sometimes births legendary machines, even if commercially unsuccessful.
FAQs
Can S17-100s fire modern 9mm ammo?
No – original barrels used .357 groove diameters vs .355 in modern 9mm. Firing current ammo risks barrel bulge and bolt face damage.
How many S17-100s exist today?Confirmed surviving units: 6 (3 in Swiss museums, 2 private collections, 1 Russian warehouse find). About 20 tripod replicas circulate.
Did any military use S17-100s in combat?No verified combat use – Swiss deployed them during 1936-37 border crises but never fired in anger.
