Headstamp Publishing has launched pre-orders their latest book "The Real Schmeissers: From the M.P. 18.I to the M.P. 41," a 678-page book covering the complete history of Hugo Schmeisser's submachine gun designs from World War I through World War II.The book, written by small arms researcher Bas Martens, brings together more than two decades of research into Schmeisser's career with the Bergmann company and C.G. Haenel. The standard edition is priced at $108.00 and is expected to begin shipping in September 2026.The volume examines the development and adoption of Schmeisser's most influential submachine gun designs, including the M.P. 18/I, M.P. 28/II, and M.P. 41. Martens traces not only the technical evolution of these firearms but also the economic, industrial, and political factors that shaped their production and deployment. "Hugo Schmeisser's name is synonymous with the development of some of the most influential submachine guns of the 20th century, yet myths and misinformation continue to obscure some of the fascinating real stories of their design," according to the publisher.The book covers early submachine gun development, including the Villar Perosa, Revelli-Beretta, Netsch, and Hellriegel designs. It documents the first German submachine guns, such as converted Luger pistols, the Mauser Trench Carbine, and Walther designs. Detailed chapters examine Schwarzlose, SIG and SIG Bergmann models, multiple variants of the M.P. 18 series, Schmeisser pocket pistols, and the M.P. 28/II alongside its competitors like the Erma EMP. Martens traces how Schmeisser's designs influenced foreign arms designers and military forces worldwide. The book documents local copies and derivatives, including the Spanish 'Naranjero', the Finnish Lindelöf, and the British Lanchester. It also covers trials, adoption, and use of Schmeisser's designs in German service as well as their widespread export.The author examines some of Hugo Schmeisser's lesser-known projects, including a small-caliber training machine gun and devices for echolocation and machine gun imitation. A full chapter addresses the variety of magazines and accessories associated with Schmeisser's submachine gun designs. The standard edition features a red faux leather hardcover with foil stamping, measuring approximately 7.5 inches wide by 10 inches tall. The book uses commercial-quality, section-sewn binding that allows pages to lay flat. Full-color photographs are printed on premium paper stock, and a ribbon page marker is included.Illustrations combine new photography with rare archival images, blueprints, and patent diagrams. According to Headstamp, the book reveals "fascinating stories of prototypes, trials, and foreign sales that have remained hidden until now."Appendices include a complete parts list for the M.P. 28/II with a German/English glossary for each component. Key contracts have been translated into English, and several important Bergmann and Schmeisser patents appear in English with contextualization and annotations. The text is fully referenced, and an extensive bibliography supports further research.Headstamp believe the new book will be the definitive reference work on Hugo Schmeisser's submachine guns and from the breadth of material Martens' book covers they might be right!Pre-orders are available now through www.headstamppublishing.com.