The Problem with Progress

This is the Czech ZK-383. It was produced in the late 1930s. It uses 9x19mm (9mm Para/Luger), so it's technically a sub-machine gun. However, it's built more like a squad support weapon, featuring a bi-pod and rifle-style adjustable sights. Its magazine is mounted on the left side of the gun, canted slightly downward. The gun is built more like an automatic carbine or rifle than anything else. It features quite a bit of rolled steel and machined construction, as well as a high quality stock. It was one of the best sub-machine guns of the 1930s in my opinion. Well built (although it didn't see many sales; however it did serve in the Bulgarian army until 1966 and in several South American nations).

And then we have this. This stamped-out, cheaply made thing is the post-war version of the ZK-383. It features all stamped sheet metal construction with rather cheap wood furniture. The only redeeming factor is the magazine has been moved to the bottom (better balance) and the magazine well can be rotated for easy carrying. Other than that, it's a cheaply made gun that faded into total obscurity.

This is the problem with progress in manufacturing. The cheaper you can make it the better it is for the economy, but it's not always the best decision.