Owen gun

The Owen gun was a 9mm Australian submachine gun designed by Evelyn Owen in 1939. It was officially adopted by the Australian Army in 1942 and remained in service until the mid-1960s. Notable for its distinctive top-mounted magazine, the Owen gun was known for its reliability in jungle warfare conditions. This configuration allowed dirt and debris to fall away from the bolt, reducing stoppages.

The Owen gun operated on a simple blowback system, firing from an open bolt. It was primarily manufactured by Lysaght's Newcastle Works, part of BHP, during World War II. Several variations of the Owen gun were produced, but the Mk I was the most common. Its design was relatively straightforward, contributing to ease of manufacture and maintenance in the field. The weapon was highly regarded by Australian troops for its ruggedness and firepower. The unusual magazine placement, while aiding reliability, also presented a higher profile for the user.