Developed in the early 1930s, the Suomi KP (Suomi-konepistooli, literally Finnish Machine Pistol) was pictured as a squad-level substitute for a belt-fed light machine gun, being fed with a 71 round drum magazine; the KP and this drum would later be copied by the Soviets, in particular the PPD-40 and PPSh-41 SMGs. In combat, the KP was found to be an effective weapon, though not suited for the Squad Automatic Weapon niche; revised doctrine gave squads a dedicated light machine gun along with two SMG-equipped troopers, which gave units a very high density of close-quarters firepower, particularly while on the move or in dense forest. Among the most famous users was Simo Hayha, aka the White Death, one of Finland's most noted snipers, who reportedly eliminated 200+ enemy troopers with the SMG. Blade front and tangent rear sights, with a screw-mounted casing deflector on the right side of the receiver, a quick-release switch for the barrel shroud, and a sight base marked "PATENT/1932" on the right and "SUOMI/Tikkakoski" on the left. The barrel is dated "4-17-42", and a 3-position selector switch (safe/semi/full) extending into the triggerguard. The smooth hardwood stock is fitted with a brown leather sling and a steel buttplate. A tan canvas drum magazine pouch is included.

Fine, with 60% of the original blue finish, showing areas of gray and brown patina, bright edge wear, and mild handling marks and spotting. The stock is broken at the wrist, with multiple pinned and screwed repairs, along with a number of lighter dents and scuffs. The drum case is good, with some light stains and a few areas of lost stitching. Mechanically excellent. NOTE: This item is restricted as a National Firearms Act (NFA), fully transferable Class 3, which is registered with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, (BATFE) that is classified as a "Curios or Relic" as defined in 27 CFR, 478.11. These weapons are still subject to the provisions of 18 U.S.C. Chapter 44 and 27 CFR part 478.