Error creating thumbnail: File missing Join our Discord!
If you have been locked out of your account you can request a password reset here.

The Wild Geese: Difference between revisions

From Internet Movie Firearms Database - Guns in Movies, TV and Video Games
Jump to navigation Jump to search
mNo edit summary
 
(116 intermediate revisions by 22 users not shown)
Line 1: Line 1:
'''The following guns were used in the movie ''The Wild Geese'''''
{{Infobox Movie
[[Image:WildGeeseMoviePoster.jpg|thumb|right|300px|The Wild Geese (1978)]]
|name = The Wild Geese
|picture = WildGeeseMoviePoster.jpg
|caption = ''Cinema Poster''
|country = [[Image:UKD.jpg|25px]] UK<BR>[[Image:CH.jpg|25px]] Switzerland
|director = Andrew V. McLaglen
|date= 1978
|language = English
|studio=Richmond Film Productions (West)
|distributor=Allied Artists Pictures
|character1=Col. Allen Faulkner
|actor1=[[Richard Burton]]
|character2=Lt. Shawn Fynn
|actor2=[[Roger Moore]]
|character3=Capt. Rafer Janders
|actor3=[[Richard Harris]]
|character4=Lt. Pieter Coetzee
|actor4=[[Hardy Krüger]]
|character5=Sgt. Blake Jesse
|actor5=[[John Kani]]
|character6=Keith
|actor6=[[Percy Herbert]]
|character7=Jock McTaggart
|actor7=[[Ronald Fraser]]
|character8=Esposito
|actor8=[[Glyn Baker]]
|character9=R.S.M. Sandy Young
|actor9=[[Jack Watson]]
|character10=Tosh Donaldson
|actor10=[[Ian Yule]]
}}
 
{{Film Title|The Wild Geese}}
 
 
__TOC__<br clear=all>
__TOC__<br clear=all>


Line 7: Line 40:
== Walther P38 with and without Suppressor ==  
== Walther P38 with and without Suppressor ==  
Lt. Shawn Fynn ([[Roger Moore]]) uses a suppressed [[Walther P38]] during the scene when his team takes control of the airport. Another P38 is used by a mafia hitman during their hunt for Shawn Fynn. Col. Faulkner also uses a P38 to perform a mercy-killing later in the movie.
Lt. Shawn Fynn ([[Roger Moore]]) uses a suppressed [[Walther P38]] during the scene when his team takes control of the airport. Another P38 is used by a mafia hitman during their hunt for Shawn Fynn. Col. Faulkner also uses a P38 to perform a mercy-killing later in the movie.
[[Image:P38Black.jpg|thumb|none|400px|Walther P38 WWII dated with black grips - 9x19mm]]
[[File:Walther P38 with unmounted suppressor.jpg|thumb|none|300px|Walther P38 with unmounted suppressor - 9x19mm]]
[[Image:WG-Waltherp38Silenceda.jpg‎|thumb|none|500px|Lt. Shawn Fynn fires his silenced Walther P38 - 9mm]]
[[Image:WG-Waltherp38Silenceda.jpg‎|thumb|none|600px|Lt. Shawn Fynn fires his silenced Walther P38.]]
[[Image:WG-P38SilencedA.jpg‎|thumb|none|500px|Closeup of the pistol, proving that it is a silenced Walther P38 - 9mm]]
[[Image:WG-P38SilencedA.jpg‎|thumb|none|601px|Closeup of the pistol, proving that it is a silenced Walther P38.]]
[[Image:MafiahitmenP38.jpg|thumb|none|500px|P38 without silencer]]
 
[[Image:P38Black.jpg|thumb|none|300px|Walther P38 WWII dated with black grips - 9x19mm]]
[[File:WildGeeseP38 1.jpg‎|thumb|none|600px|Col. Faulkner preparing his P38 for a mercy killing.]]
[[Image:MafiahitmenWildGeese.jpg|thumb|none|600px|One of mafia hitmen is armed with a P38.]]


== Colt M1911 ==
== Colt M1911 ==
The Sgt. Major "Sandy" ([[Jack Watson]]) uses a [[M1911 pistol series|Colt M1911]] to discipline a soldier during training. He later uses it during the final shootout at the airfield. Another 1911 is used by a mafia hitman during the Shawn Fynn rescue.
Sgt. Major "Sandy" ([[Jack Watson]]) uses a [[M1911 pistol series|Colt M1911]] to discipline a soldier during training. He later uses it during the final shootout at the airfield. Another 1911 is used by a mafia hitman ([[Leslie Schofield]]) during the Shawn Fynn rescue.
[[Image:COLTM1911 1913.jpg|thumb|300px|none|Colt M1911 (dated 1913) - .45 ACP]]
[[Image:COLTM1911 1913.jpg|thumb|300px|none|Colt M1911 (dated 1913) - .45 ACP]]
[[File:Coltsandy1.jpg|500px|thumb|none|Sandy preparing his 1911 to discipline a broken soldier during physical training.]]
[[File:Coltsandy1.jpg|600px|thumb|none|Sandy preparing his 1911 to discipline a broken soldier during physical training.]]
[[File:Coltsandy2.jpg|500px|thumb|none|A very horrified private soldier after Sandy fires his Colt next to his ear.]]
[[File:Coltsandy2.jpg|600px|thumb|none|A very horrified private soldier after Sandy fires his Colt next to his ear.]]
[[File:Coltsandy3.jpg|500px|thumb|none|Sandy using his Colt to fire at approaching soldiers.]]
[[File:Coltsandy3.jpg|600px|thumb|none|Sandy using his Colt to fire at approaching soldiers.]]
[[File:Mafiamancolt1911.jpg|500px|thumb|none|Mafia hitman brandishing his Colt.]]
[[File:Mafiamancolt1911.jpg|600px|thumb|none|A hitman ([[Leslie Schofield]]) brandishing his Colt.]]


== SIG P210 ==
== SIG P210 ==
Shawn Fynn ([[Roger Moore]]) uses a [[SIG P210]] during the Mafia-related scenes.
Shawn Fynn ([[Roger Moore]]) uses a [[SIG P210]] during the mafia-related scenes.


[[Image:Sig_P210.jpg|thumb|300px|none|P210]]
[[Image:Sig_P210.jpg|thumb|300px|none|SIG P210 - 9x19mm]]
[[Image:Sigp210wildgeese2.jpg|thumb|550px|none|Shawn pointing his SIG P210 at the "snot-nosed" mafioso kid]]
[[Image:Sigp210wildgeese2.jpg|thumb|600px|none|Shawn Fynn ([[Roger Moore]]) pointing his SIG P210 at the "snot-nosed" mafioso kid (David Ladd, the son of actor [[Alan Ladd]]).]]
[[Image:sigp210wildgeese.jpg|thumb|550px|none|SIG P210 pointed at a less than amused Colonel Faulkner at Shawns Casino hideout]]
[[Image:sigp210wildgeese.jpg|thumb|601px|none|His SIG P210 pointed at a less-than-amused Colonel Faulkner at Shawn's casino hideout.]]
[[Image:Sigp210wildgeese3.jpg|thumb|550px|none|Shawn and Faulkner at the casino hideout, Shawn brandishing his SIG P210]]
[[Image:Sigp210wildgeese3.jpg|thumb|600px|none|Shawn and Faulkner at the casino hideout, Shawn brandishing his SIG P210.]]
.


== Smith & Wesson Model 19 Snubnose ==  
==Smith & Wesson Model 19 Snub Nose==  
Colonel Faulkner ([[Richard Burton]]) and Rafer ([[Richard Harris]]) both carry a [[Smith & Wesson Model 19]] during the mafia raid at the casino.
Colonel Faulkner ([[Richard Burton]]) and Rafer ([[Richard Harris]]) both carry a [[Smith & Wesson Model 19 Snub Nose]] during the mafia raid on the casino.
[[File:Smith&Wesson.jpg|thumb|none|400px|Smith & Wesson Model 19 Snubnose - .357 Magnum]]
[[File:Smith&Wesson.jpg|thumb|none|300px|Smith & Wesson Model 19 Snubnose - .357 Magnum]]
[[Image:Rafergungrenade.jpg|thumb|550px|none|Shawn and Rafer with the latter showing his shortbarreled revolver]]
[[Image:Rafergungrenade.jpg|thumb|600px|none|Shawn and Rafer with the latter showing his Model 19 Snub.]]
[[Image:FaulknerRevolver.jpg|thumb|550px|none|Faulkner at the casino hideout, Faulkner brandishing a shortbarreled revolver]]
[[Image:FaulknerRevolver.jpg|thumb|400px|none|Faulkner at the casino hideout, Faulkner brandishing the S&W Model 19 Snub.]]


== Colt Python ==
== Colt Python ==
One of the mafia hitmen uses a [[Colt Python]] revolver during the casino scenes.
One of the mafia hitmen (Tim Condren) uses a [[Colt Python]] revolver during the casino scenes.
[[File:ColtPython6In.jpg|thumb|none|400px|Colt Python - .357 Magnum]]
[[File:ColtPython6In.jpg|thumb|none|300px|Colt Python - .357 Magnum]]
[[Image:MafiahitmenLongBarrel.jpg|thumb|400px|none|Mafia hitman brandishing his Colt Python|]]
[[Image:MafiahitmenWildGeese.jpg|thumb|none|600px|One of mafia hitmen is armed with a Colt Python.]]
 
==Beretta M1934==
Col. Faulkner brandishes a suppressed [[Beretta M1934]] when confronting Sir Edward Matherson ([[Stewart Granger]]).
[[File:Beretta_Model_1934_Pistol.jpg|thumb|none|300px|Beretta Model 1934 - .380 ACP]]
[[Image:WildGeese_B1934_01.jpg|thumb|600px|none|Faulkner with his suppressed Beretta M1934.]]
[[Image:WildGeese_B1934_02.jpg|thumb|600px|none|A closeup of the M1934.]]
 
==Tokarev TT-33==
The East German military advisor at the airport carries what is most likely a [[Tokarev TT-33]].
[[Image:TT-33.jpg|thumb|none|300px|Tokarev TT-33 - 7.62x25mm Tokarev]]
[[File:WildGeeseTokarev1.jpg|thumb|none|600px|The East German officer runs out with his Tokarev in hand.]]


= Submachine Guns =
= Submachine Guns =


== Uzi ==
== Uzi ==
Col. Allen Faulkner ([[Richard Burton]]) and Capt. Rafer Janders ([[Richard Harris]]) use the [[Uzi|Uzi Submachine Gun]]. Lt. Shawn Fynn ([[Roger Moore]]), Sgt. Jesse
Col. Allen Faulkner ([[Richard Burton]]) and Capt. Rafer Janders ([[Richard Harris]]) use the [[Uzi|Uzi Submachine Gun]]. Lt. Shawn Fynn ([[Roger Moore]]), Sgt. Jesse
Blake ([[John Kani]]) and Medical Orderly Arthur Witty ([[Kenneth Griffith]]) and a few other mercenaries also use the [[Uzi|Uzi Submachine Gun]].  
Blake ([[John Kani]]), Medical Orderly Arthur Witty ([[Kenneth Griffith]]), and a few other mercenaries also use the [[Uzi|Uzi Submachine Gun]].  
[[Image:Richard burton uzi.jpg|thumb|none|400px|IMI Uzi used by [[Richard Burton]] in the film. One of four identical Uzis used on set. Photo courtesy of the Long Mountain Outfitters]]
[[Image:Richard burton uzi.jpg|thumb|none|400px|IMI Uzi used by [[Richard Burton]] in the film. One of five identical Uzis used on set. Photo courtesy of the Long Mountain Outfitters]]
[[Image:WG-Burton-UziA.jpg‎ |thumb|none|500px|Col. Allen Faulkner ([[Richard Burton]]) stands ready with his Uzi submachine gun - 9mm]]
[[Image:WG-Burton-UziA.jpg‎ |thumb|none|601px|Col. Allen Faulkner ([[Richard Burton]]) with his Uzi submachine gun - 9mm]]
[[Image:WG-UziA.jpg‎ |thumb|none|500px|Lt. Shawn Fynn ([[Roger Moore]]) readies his Uzi submachine gun - 9mm]]
[[Image:WG-UziA.jpg‎|thumb|none|601px|Lt. Shawn Fynn ([[Roger Moore]]) readies his Uzi submachine gun - 9mm]]
[[File:WildGeeseUzi1.jpg|thumb|none|600px|President Limbani (Winston Ntshona) and Jesse with his Uzi.]]
 
== Sa 23 ==
A Czechoslovakian [[Sa 23]] is seen in the parachute harness of a mercenary as they prepare to do a jump from the C-130 transport plane. Later, it is seen being used by the 4th NCO, Derek ([[Joe Cole]]), as the mercenaries capture Zembala airport. Derek is still carrying it when Lt. Fynn's detachment capture the battered old Dakota DC-3.
 
It is the 23 model because it is 9mm Parabellum, the later 7.62x25mm Tokarev model has a slanted pistol grip and magazine hence the ammunition. While it might be unusual for one of the mercenaries to be carrying a communist weapon during the Cold War, the design was actually sold to and adopted by South Africa during that time period. Some may think it is a South African [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sanna_77 Sanna-77 submachine gun]. The Sanna-77 was a semi-automatic SMG issued to white Afrikaans farmers during the Aparthied era as a protection weapon, however many claim that is was merely an updated Sa 25 (folding stock 9mm). This is unlikely since the Sanna-77 was only manufactured as a folding stock version.
 
[[File:Sa 23.jpg|thumb|none|400px|Sa 23 - 9x19mm]]
[[Image:WG-SMGA SA23.jpg‎|thumb|none|600px|A mercenary carries a Sa 23.]]
[[File:WildGeeseSA23C.jpg|thumb|none|600px|]]


== Sa.23 submachine gun ==
== Sa 25 ==
A [[SA.23 submachine gun series|Czechoslovakian Sa.23 Submachine Gun]] with a fixed wooden stock is seen in the parachute harness of a mercenary as they prepare to do a jump from the C-130 transport plane.  It is the 23 model because it is 9mm parabellum, the later 7.62x25mm Tokarev model has a slanted pistol grip and magazine hence the ammunition.  While it might be unusual for one of the mercenaries to be carrying a communist weapon during the Cold War, the design was actually sold to and adopted by South Africa during that time period.
One mercenary can be seen with a [[Sa 25]] submachine gun, indicated by its folding stock.
Some may think it is a South African [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sanna_77 Sanna-77 submachine gun]. The Sanna-77 was a semi-automatic SMG issued to white Afrikaans farmers during the Aparthied era as a protection weapon, however many claim that is was merely an updated Sa.25 (folding stock 9mm). This is unlikely since the Sanna-77 was only manufactured in a folding stock version.
[[Image:CZ Sa. 24 submachine gun.JPG|thumb|none|400px|Czechoslovakian Sa.24 Submachine gun - 7.25 Tokarev]]
[[Image:WG-SMGA SA23.jpg‎ |thumb|none|500px|A mercenary carries a Czechoslovakian Sa.23 Submachine gun - 9mm]]


== Sa.25 submachine gun ==
[[File:Sa 25.jpg|thumb|none|350px|Sa 25 - 9x19mm]]
One mercenary can be seen with the folding stock of the 9mm submachine gun.  This indicates it is the [[SA.23 submachine gun series|Sa.25 Submachine Gun.]]
[[Image:WG-Sa24A.jpg‎|thumb|none|601px|A mercenary in the foreground carries a Sa 25.]]
[[Image:CzechSA24 SMG.jpg‎|thumb|none|300px|Czech Sa.25 Submachine gun - 9mm]]
[[Image:WG-Sa24A.jpg‎|thumb|none|500px|A mercenary in the foreground carries a Czechoslovakian Sa.25 Submachine gun with a folding stock - 9mm]]


== Madsen M50 ==
== Madsen M50 ==
Some of the mercenaries use the [[Madsen M50|Madsen M50 Submachine Gun]].
Some of the mercenaries use the Danish [[Madsen M50|Madsen M50 Submachine Gun]].
[[Image:DanishMadsenm50.jpg|thumb|none|400px|Madsen M50 - 9x19mm]]
[[Image:DanishMadsenm50.jpg|thumb|none|400px|Madsen M50 - 9x19mm]]
[[Image:WG-MadsenA.jpg‎ |thumb|none|500px|Mercenary in front runs holding a Danish Madsen M50 Submachine gun - 9mm]]
[[Image:WG-MadsenA.jpg‎|thumb|none|601px|Mercenary in front runs holding a Danish Madsen M50 Submachine gun - 9mm]]


== Sterling L2A1 ==
== Sterling L2A1 ==
RSM Sandy Young ([[Jack Watson]]) uses a [[Sterling SMG|Sterling L2A1]] submachine gun as well as several of the other mercenaries.
RSM Sandy Young ([[Jack Watson]]) uses a [[Sterling SMG|Sterling L2A1]] submachine gun. Several other mercenaries use the Sterling as well.
[[Image:SterlingSMG.jpg|thumb|none|300px|Sterling Submachine Gun - 9mm]]
[[Image:SterlingSMG.jpg|thumb|none|360px|Sterling Submachine Gun - 9mm]]
[[Image:WG-Sterling-6a.jpg‎ |thumb|none|500px|Sandy Young fires his Sterling Submachine gun - 9mm]]
[[File:WildGeeseSterling1.jpg|thumb|none|600px|Sandy on the left with his Sterling.]]
[[Image:WG-Sterling-6a.jpg‎ |thumb|none|601px|Sandy Young fires his Sterling submachine gun.]]


== MAC-10 ==
== MAC-10 ==
One of the members of the hit team sent to kill Shawn Finn ([[Roger Moore]]) uses what appears to be a [[MAC-10]].
One of the members of the hit team sent to kill Shawn Fynn ([[Roger Moore]]) uses what appears to be a [[MAC-10]].
[[Image:IngramMAC10.jpg|thumb|none|300px|MAC-10 Submachine Gun - 45acp]]
[[Image:IngramMAC10.jpg|thumb|none|350px|MAC-10 Submachine Gun - .45 ACP]]
[[Image:WG-MAC10a.jpg‎|thumb|none|500px|One of the mafia killers sent to terminate Shawn Finn carries a MAC-10 Submachine Gun - 45acp]]
[[Image:WG-MAC10a.jpg‎|thumb|none|600px|One of the mafia killers (stuntman [[George Leech]]) sent to terminate Shawn Fynn carries a MAC-10 submachine gun.]]
[[File:WildGeeseMac10.jpg|thumb|none|600px|The same bounty hunter firing his MAC-10 at a door's lock.]]


= Rifles & Carbines =
= Rifles & Carbines =


== L1A1 SLR ==
== L1A1 SLR ==
There is a huge mix of all manners of FAL rifles in the film.  The Mercenaries use a mix of LAR, FAL 50.00 and [[L1A1 SLR]] models. Some of them are firing semi auto and others are firing full automatic.
There is a huge mix of all manners of FAL rifles in the film.  The Mercenaries use a mix of FAL 50.00 and [[L1A1 SLR]] models. Some of them are firing semi auto and others are firing fully automatic.
[[Image:L1A1-SLR.jpg‎|thumb|none|400px|British Inch Pattern L1A1 SLR (Self Loading Rifle) chambered in 7.62x51mm]]
[[Image:L1A1-SLR.jpg‎|thumb|none|450px|British Inch Pattern L1A1 SLR (Self Loading Rifle) chambered in 7.62x51mm]]
[[Image:WG-L1A1a.jpg‎|thumb|none|500px|Mercenaries all fire the L1A1 SLR (Self Loading Rifle) chambered in 7.62x51mm. Medical Orderly Arthur Witty (far left) carries an Uzi during his jump, uses an L1A1 during the first battle, and then switches back to an Uzi for the rest of the film.]]
[[Image:WG-L1A1a.jpg‎|thumb|none|600px|Mercenaries all fire the L1A1 SLR (Self Loading Rifle) chambered in 7.62x51mm. Medical Orderly Arthur Witty (far left) carries an Uzi during his jump, uses an L1A1 during the first battle, and then switches back to an Uzi for the rest of the film. Actor [[Percy Herbert]] (middle) is also seen using an L1A1.]]
[[Image:WG-FAL&L1A1a.jpg‎|thumb|none|500px| Mercenary Samuels (Brook Williams) uses an L1A1 during the barracks attack, while Esposito ([[Glyn Baker]]) (on the right) uses a full auto FN FAL 50.00 rifle - 7.62x51mm]]
[[Image:WG-FAL&L1A1a.jpg‎|thumb|none|600px|Mercenary Samuels ([[Brook Williams]] on the left) uses an L1A1 during the barracks attack, while Esposito on the right ([[Glyn Baker]] son of famous actor [[Stanley Baker]]) uses a full auto FN FAL 50.00 rifle.]]
[[file:WildGeeseFAL1.jpg‎|thumb|none|600px|]]


== FN FAL|FN FAL 50.61 ==
== FN FAL 50.61 ==
Some of the Mercenaries and nearly all of the Simbas (General Endoufa's crack troops) carry the [[FN FAL|FN FAL 50.61]] paratrooper rifle. This is odd, since the junta's forces are being aided by the Soviet Bloc (note the Cuban and East German military Advisors), thus it would have been more likely that the junta's soldiers are issued AK47s or other Combloc weapon.
Some of the Mercenaries and nearly all of the Simbas (General Ndofa's crack troops) carry the [[FN FAL|FN FAL 50.61]] paratrooper rifle. This is odd, since the junta's forces are being aided by the Soviet Bloc (note the Cuban and East German military Advisors), thus it would have been more likely that the junta's soldiers are issued AK-47s or other Combloc weapon.
The number of FN-FAL available for the production is logical though as the movie was filmed in South Africa.
However, the number of FN FALs available for the production is logical as the movie was filmed in South Africa and used South African weapons.
[[Image:FN-FAL-50.61.jpg|thumb|none|500px|FN FAL 50.61 paratrooper rifle - 7.62x51mm]]
[[Image:FN-FAL-50.61.jpg|thumb|none|450px|FN FAL 50.61 paratrooper rifle - 7.62x51mm]]
[[Image:WG-FN-FAL-5061A.jpg‎ |thumb|none|500px|Simba Guard patrols with his FN FAL 50.61 paratrooper rifle - 7.62x51mm]]
[[Image:WG-FN-FAL-5061A.jpg‎ |thumb|none|600px|A Simba Guard patrols with his FN FAL 50.61 paratrooper rifle.]]
[[Image:WG-SimbaFALSa.jpg‎|thumb|none|500px|All of the pursuing Simba soldiers carry FN FAL 50.61 paratrooper rifle - 7.62x51mm]]
[[Image:WG-SimbaFALSa.jpg‎|thumb|none|601px|All of the pursuing Simba soldiers carry FN FAL 50.61 paratrooper rifles.]]
[[File:WildGeese5061B.jpg|thumb|none|601px|Clearer shot of the bottom half of the weapon.]]


== FN LAR ==
== FN FAL ==
Alot of the of the Mercenaries carry the [[FN FAL|FN LAR]] automatic rifle (early FAL variant). Faulkner is seen holding a FAL for one of the soldiers while the latter cuts through a barb-wire fence.
A lot of the Mercenaries carry the [[FN FAL]] automatic rifle with a wooden stock and metal foreend. Faulkner is seen holding an FAL for one of the soldiers while the latter cuts through a barb wire fence. Note the slim folded bipod.
[[Image:FN-LAR.jpg|thumb|none|500px|FN LAR "Light Automatic Rifle" 1st pattern FAL - 7.62x51mm. This is the foreign equivalent of the "G" Series FAL that was imported into the U.S. during the 1960s and 70s]]
[[File:FN-LAR-with-Wood-Stock.jpg|thumb|none|500px|FN FAL with G1/StG 58 foreend and wooden buttstock - 7.62x51mm NATO. Note the folded bipod.]]
[[Image:WG-FN-LARa.jpg|thumb|none|500px|Col. Allen Faulkner ([[Richard Burton]]) holding Keith's ([[PercyHerbert]]) FN LAR "Light Automatic Rifle" 1st pattern FAL - 7.62x51mm.]]
[[Image:WG-FN-LARa.jpg|thumb|none|600px|Col. Allen Faulkner ([[Richard Burton]]) holding Keith's ([[Percy Herbert]]) FN FAL while the latter is assisting cutting the barb wired fence.]]
[[Image:WG-FN-LAR-5a.jpg‎ |thumb|none|500px|Mercenary Keith ([[Percy Herbert]]) fires his FN LAR "Light Automatic Rifle" 1st pattern FAL in semi auto until he gets shot in the head - 7.62x51mm.]]
[[Image:WG-FN-LAR-5a.jpg‎ |thumb|none|601px|Mercenary Keith ([[Percy Herbert]]) fires his FN FAL. Note the slim folded bipod just left of his left hand. ]]


== FN FAL 50.00 ==
== FN FAL 50.00 ==
[[Hardy Krueger]] as Lt. Pieter Coetze uses an [[FN FAL|FN FAL 50.00]] with a wooden buttstock, like many of the other mercenaries.
[[Hardy Krueger]] as Lt. Pieter Coetzee uses an [[FN FAL|FN FAL 50.00]] with a wooden buttstock, like many of the other mercenaries.
[[Image:FN FAL 50 00.jpg|thumb|none|500px| FN FAL 50.00 7.62x51mm NATO]]
[[Image:FN FAL 50 00.jpg|thumb|none|450px| FN FAL 50.00 7.62x51mm NATO]]
[[Image:WG-KrugerFALa.jpg‎|thumb|none|500px|Peter Coetze ([[Hardy Krueger]]) with his FN FAL 50.00 - 7.62mm NATO]]
[[Image:WG-KrugerFALa.jpg‎|thumb|none|601px|Pieter Coetzee ([[Hardy Krueger]]) with his FN FAL 50.00.]]
[[Image:WG-Fals-More2a.jpg|thumb|none|500px|Coetze walks with his FN FAL 50.00 whereas Sgt. Jesse Blake ([[John Kani]]) carries an FN LAR. Awhile later, Jesse is seen carrying and using the Uzi for the remainder of the film.]]
[[Image:WG-Fals-More2a.jpg|thumb|none|600px|Coetzee walks with his FN FAL 50.00 whereas Sgt. Jesse Blake ([[John Kani]]) carries a different FN FAL. Later, Jesse is seen carrying and using the Uzi for the remainder of the film.]]


== Custom L1A1 Battle Carbine ==
== Custom L1A1 Battle Carbine ==
Ex SAS member Tosh Donaldson played by Ian Yule used a weapon that was a chopped down [[L1A1 SLR]] that was converted to full auto fire with a special single dot reflex sight and flash hider (and 40 round 7.62x51mm magazines). The actor Ian Yule, was a former real life Mercenary in the Congo during the 1960s under the command of Major Mike Hoare. For many years, fans of the film assumed the weapon was a South African R1 Variant, but information directly from the actor reminds us that there was an arms embargo against South Africa during the 1970s (because of apartheid). This was a custom made L1A1 carbine that came from a UK Movie armory.   
Ex-SAS member Tosh Donaldson played by Ian Yule uses a custom chopped down [[L1A1 SLR]] converted to full auto fire and equipped with a Singlepoint SP220 reflex sight and flash hider (and 40 round 7.62x51mm magazines). The actor Ian Yule was a former real life mercenary in the Congo during the 1960s under the command of Major Mike Hoare. For many years, fans of the film assumed the weapon was a South African R1 Variant, but information directly from the actor reminds us that there was an arms embargo against South Africa during the 1970s (because of apartheid). This was a custom made L1A1 carbine that came from a UK Movie armory.   
[[Image:WG-R1a.jpg‎|thumb|none|500px|Tosh Donaldson ([[Ian Yule]]) fires his Custom L1A1 Battle Carbine at the attacking plane - 7.62x51mm]]
[[Image:L1A1-SLR.jpg‎|thumb|none|450px|British Inch Pattern L1A1 SLR (Self Loading Rifle) chambered in 7.62x51mm NATO - Variation of the FN FAL rifle. British & New Zealand SLRs were later fitted with black fibreglass furniture as seen here.]]
[[File:L1A1 Wild Geese custom.jpg|thumb|none|450px|Custom shortened L1A1 SLR (Self Loading Rifle) as used in The Wild Geese (photoshopped image) - 7.62x51mm]]
[[Image:WG-R1a.jpg‎|thumb|none|600px|Tosh Donaldson ([[Ian Yule]]) fires his Custom L1A1 Battle Carbine at the attacking plane.]]


== SIG SG 510 ==
== SIG SG 510 ==
During the attack on the barracks, a Mercenary carries a [[SIG SG 510|StG 57/SIG SG 510]] Assault Rifle. It is also seen fired in the prone position during the final firefight.
During the attack on the barracks, a mercenary carries a [[SIG SG 510|StG 57/SIG SG 510]] battle rifle. It is also seen fired in the prone position during the final firefight.
[[Image:SIG-StG-57.jpg‎‎|thumb|none|500px|Swiss StG 57. The 7.62x51mm version is called the SG 510]]
[[Image:SIG-StG-57.jpg‎‎|thumb|none|450px|Swiss StG 57. The 7.62x51mm version is called the SG 510]]
[[Image:WG-STG57a.jpg‎|thumb|none|500px|Mercenary carries a Swiss StG 57.  Most probably the SG 510 being that the 510 is chambered for 7.62x51mm]]
[[Image:WG-STG57a.jpg‎|thumb|none|600px|Mercenary carries a Swiss StG 57.  Most likely a SG 510 being that the 510 is chambered for 7.62x51mm]]
[[Image:WG-StG57bA.jpg‎|thumb|none|500px|Mercenary readies his SG 510 - 7.62x51mm]]
[[Image:WG-StG57bA.jpg‎|thumb|none|600px|Mercenary readies his SG 510.]]
[[Image:WG-StG578a.jpg‎ ‎|thumb|none|500px|Mercenaries run for the plane, one carrying an SG 510 - 7.62x51mm.  The one in front carries his FN MAG-58 - 7.61x51mm]]
[[Image:WG-StG578a.jpg‎ ‎|thumb|none|600px|Mercenaries run for the plane, one carrying an SG 510.  The one in front carries his FN MAG-58.]]


= Machine Guns =
= Machine Guns =


== Bren Gun ==
== Bren Gun ==
The [[Bren gun|Bren Gun]] is used by some of the Mercenaries, both in .303 and 7.62.
The [[Bren gun|Bren Gun]] is used by some of the mercenaries and Simbas, both in .303 and 7.62.
[[Image:Bren_mk2.jpg‎|thumb|none|400px|Bren Mk2 - .303 caliber]]
[[Image:Bren_mk2.jpg‎|thumb|none|450px|Bren Mk2 - .303 caliber]]
[[Image:WG-Bren-&-Launchera.jpg‎|thumb|none|500px|Tosh Donaldson ([[Ian Yule]]) holds his Blindicide Rocket Launcher while another mercenary fires his Bren gun]]
[[File:WildGeeseSterling1.jpg|thumb|none|600px|Private Esposito ([[Glyn Baker]]) (right) with his Bren.]]  
[[Image:WG-BREN2a.jpg‎ |thumb|none|500px|Tosh Donaldson ([[Ian Yule]]) takes over the Bren gun]]
[[Image:WG-Bren-&-Launchera.jpg‎|thumb|none|601px|Sgt. Tosh Donaldson ([[Ian Yule]]) holds his Blindicide Rocket Launcher while another mercenary fires his Bren gun]]
[[Image:WG-BREN2a.jpg|thumb|none|601px|Sgt. Tosh Donaldson ([[Ian Yule]]) takes over the Bren Gun]]
[[File:WildGeenseBren1.jpg|thumb|none|600px|A Simba soldier firing his Bren.]]


== Vickers Gun ==
== Vickers Gun ==
A [[Vickers Gun|Vickers Machine Gun]] is used by the Mercenaries in the final crossfire against the Simbas.  First manned by Sgt. Jock McTaggart and then by Capt. Rafer Janders.
A [[Vickers Gun|Vickers Machine Gun]] is used by the mercenaries in the final firefight with the Simbas, manned first by Sgt. Jock McTaggart and then by Capt. Rafer Janders. This weapon was most likely scavenged by the mercenaries at the airport (by Colonel Faulkners orders) since it's not a light-weight weapon (55.12 lb, 25.00 kg) and was probably not parachuted in with the Mercenaries, who according to the plan, were not expected to remain for more than a few hours.
[[Image:Vickers gun.JPG|thumb|none|300px]]
[[Image:Vickers gun.JPG|thumb|none|400px|Vickers gun with ribbed water jacket - .303 British]]
[[Image:WG-VickersA.jpg‎|thumb|none|500px|Mercenaries ready their Vickers Machine gun - .303]]
[[Image:WG-VickersA.jpg‎|thumb|none|601px|Mercenaries ready their Vickers Machine Gun.]]
[[File:WildGeeseVickers07.jpg|thumb|none|600px|]]
[[File:WildGeeseVickers (1).jpg‎|thumb|none|600px|]]
[[File:WildGeeseVickers (2).jpg‎|thumb|none|600px|]]


== FN MAG-58 ==
== FN MAG-58 ==
The [[FN MAG|FN MAG-58]] is used by some of the Mercenaries and RSM Sandy Young ([[Jack Watson]]).
The [[FN MAG|FN MAG-58]] is used by some of the mercenaries and RSM Sandy Young ([[Jack Watson]]).
[[Image:Mag58postb.jpg|thumb|none|400px|FN MAG 58 7.62x51mm NATO]]
[[Image:Mag58postb.jpg|thumb|none|450px|FN MAG 58 7.62x51mm NATO]]
[[Image:WG-MAG-58a.jpg‎ ‎|thumb|none|500px|RSM Sandy Young ([[Jack Watson]]) whips quickly around with a FN MAG-58 - 7.62x51mm]]
[[Image:WG-MAG-58a.jpg‎ ‎|thumb|none|601px|RSM Sandy Young ([[Jack Watson]]) whips quickly around with an FN MAG-58.]]
[[Image:WG-MAG582a.jpg‎ |thumb|none|500px|Mercenary takes cover with his FN MAG-58 - 7.62x51mm]]
[[Image:WG-MAG582a.jpg‎ |thumb|none|600px|Mercenary takes cover with his FN MAG-58.]]


= Fire Support =
= Fire Support =


== RL-83 Blindicide Rocket Launcher  ==
== RL-83 Blindicide Rocket Launcher  ==
Tosh Donaldson ([[Ian Yule]]) carries and uses a Belgian [[Blindicide|RL-83 Blindicide]] multiple times during the final firefight. Tosh's rocket launcher does not have the blast shield installed.
Tosh Donaldson ([[Ian Yule]]) carries and uses a Belgian [[Blindicide|RL-83 Blindicide]] multiple times during the final firefight. Tosh's rocket launcher does not have the blast shield installed.
[[Image:WG-BlindicideA.jpg‎|thumb|none|500px|Tosh fires his RL-83 Blindicide - 83mm]]
[[File:Blindicide.jpg|thumb|none|450px|Blindicide RL-83 - 83mm]]
[[Image:WG-BlindicideA.jpg‎|thumb|none|601px|Tosh fires his RL-83 Blindicide.]]
[[File:WildGeeseRocket(1).jpg‎|thumb|none|600px|Frontal view.]]
[[File:WildGeeseRocket(2).jpg‎|thumb|none|600px|Reloading the launcher. This looks more like a mortar round than a genuine RL-83 rocket.]]


==Mk II hand grenade==
==Mk II hand grenade==
The [[Mk II Hand Grenade]] is mostly seen used by Rafer Janders ([[Richard Harris]]) when he and Allan Faulkner ([[Richard Burton]]) rescue Shawn Fynn ([[Roger Moore]]).  Also carried by all of the mercenaries during the mission.  
The [[Mk II Hand Grenade]] is mostly seen used by Rafer Janders ([[Richard Harris]]) when he and Allan Faulkner ([[Richard Burton]]) rescue Shawn Fynn ([[Roger Moore]]).  They are also carried by all of the mercenaries during the mission.  
[[Image:MK2 grenade DoD.jpg|thumb|none|200px|Mk 2 hand grenade|Mk 2 "Pineapple" High-Explosive Fragmentation hand grenade]]  
[[Image:MK2 grenade DoD.jpg|thumb|none|200px|Mk 2 hand grenade|Mk 2 "Pineapple" High-Explosive Fragmentation hand grenade]]  
[[Image:WG-MKII-GrenadeA.jpg‎ |thumb|none|500px|An American Mk II hand grenade of WW2 vintage is used by Rafer Janders.]]
[[Image:WG-MKII-GrenadeA.jpg‎|thumb|none|601px|An American Mk II hand grenade of WW2 vintage is used by Rafer Janders.]]
[[File:WildGeeseGrenade5.jpg‎|thumb|none|600px|]]


= Specialty Weaponry =
==Mills Bomb==
At least one mercenary is seen with the British [[Mills Bomb]] of World War 1 heritage but updated and still manufactured even as late as the 1980s.
[[Image:Mills Bomb SGM-1.jpg|thumb|none|200px|No. 36M Mk.I "Mills Bomb" High-Explosive Fragmentation hand grenade.]]
[[File:WildGeeseMillsBomb1.jpg|thumb|none|600px|Private Esposito with a Mills Bomb hanging from his chest pocket.]]


==Barnett Wildcat Crossbow==
{{DEFAULTSORT:Wild Geese, The}}
Lt. Pieter Coetze ([[Hardy Krüger]]) uses a [[Barnett Crossbow|Barnett Wildcat Crossbow w/wooden stock]] to shoot poison darts when infiltrating the Simba Barracks.  The Wildcat Crossbow was made from 1972 - 1985
[[File:Barnett Wildcat.jpg|none|thumb|400px|Barnett Wildcat Crossbow]]
[[Image:WG-Crossbow2.jpg|thumb|none|500px|Lt. Pieter Coetze ([[Hardy Krüger]]) readies his Barnett Wildcat Crossbow.]]
[[Image:WG-Crossbow4a.jpg‎ |thumb|none|500px|Lt. Pieter Coetze ([[Hardy Krüger]]) fires his Barnett Wildcat Crossbow.]]


[[Category:Movie]]
[[Category:Movie]]
Line 154: Line 221:
[[Category:Action Movie]]
[[Category:Action Movie]]
[[Category:British Produced/Filmed]]
[[Category:British Produced/Filmed]]
[[Category:South African Produced/Filmed]]
[[Category:Swiss Produced/Filmed]]
[[Category:Andrew V. McLaglen]]

Latest revision as of 03:40, 6 August 2023


The Wild Geese
Error creating thumbnail: File missing
Cinema Poster
Country Error creating thumbnail: File missing UK
Error creating thumbnail: File missing Switzerland
Directed by Andrew V. McLaglen
Release Date 1978
Language English
Studio Richmond Film Productions (West)
Distributor Allied Artists Pictures
Main Cast
Character Actor
Col. Allen Faulkner Richard Burton
Lt. Shawn Fynn Roger Moore
Capt. Rafer Janders Richard Harris
Lt. Pieter Coetzee Hardy Krüger
Sgt. Blake Jesse John Kani
Keith Percy Herbert
Jock McTaggart Ronald Fraser
Esposito Glyn Baker
R.S.M. Sandy Young Jack Watson
Tosh Donaldson Ian Yule



The following weapons were used in the film The Wild Geese:



Handguns

Walther P38 with and without Suppressor

Lt. Shawn Fynn (Roger Moore) uses a suppressed Walther P38 during the scene when his team takes control of the airport. Another P38 is used by a mafia hitman during their hunt for Shawn Fynn. Col. Faulkner also uses a P38 to perform a mercy-killing later in the movie.

Error creating thumbnail: File missing
Walther P38 with unmounted suppressor - 9x19mm
Error creating thumbnail: File missing
Lt. Shawn Fynn fires his silenced Walther P38.
Error creating thumbnail: File missing
Closeup of the pistol, proving that it is a silenced Walther P38.
Error creating thumbnail: File missing
Walther P38 WWII dated with black grips - 9x19mm
Error creating thumbnail: File missing
Col. Faulkner preparing his P38 for a mercy killing.
Error creating thumbnail: File missing
One of mafia hitmen is armed with a P38.

Colt M1911

Sgt. Major "Sandy" (Jack Watson) uses a Colt M1911 to discipline a soldier during training. He later uses it during the final shootout at the airfield. Another 1911 is used by a mafia hitman (Leslie Schofield) during the Shawn Fynn rescue.

Error creating thumbnail: File missing
Colt M1911 (dated 1913) - .45 ACP
Error creating thumbnail: File missing
Sandy preparing his 1911 to discipline a broken soldier during physical training.
Error creating thumbnail: File missing
A very horrified private soldier after Sandy fires his Colt next to his ear.
Error creating thumbnail: File missing
Sandy using his Colt to fire at approaching soldiers.
Error creating thumbnail: File missing
A hitman (Leslie Schofield) brandishing his Colt.

SIG P210

Shawn Fynn (Roger Moore) uses a SIG P210 during the mafia-related scenes.

Error creating thumbnail: File missing
SIG P210 - 9x19mm
Error creating thumbnail: File missing
Shawn Fynn (Roger Moore) pointing his SIG P210 at the "snot-nosed" mafioso kid (David Ladd, the son of actor Alan Ladd).
Error creating thumbnail: File missing
His SIG P210 pointed at a less-than-amused Colonel Faulkner at Shawn's casino hideout.
Error creating thumbnail: File missing
Shawn and Faulkner at the casino hideout, Shawn brandishing his SIG P210.

.

Smith & Wesson Model 19 Snub Nose

Colonel Faulkner (Richard Burton) and Rafer (Richard Harris) both carry a Smith & Wesson Model 19 Snub Nose during the mafia raid on the casino.

Error creating thumbnail: File missing
Smith & Wesson Model 19 Snubnose - .357 Magnum
Error creating thumbnail: File missing
Shawn and Rafer with the latter showing his Model 19 Snub.
Error creating thumbnail: File missing
Faulkner at the casino hideout, Faulkner brandishing the S&W Model 19 Snub.

Colt Python

One of the mafia hitmen (Tim Condren) uses a Colt Python revolver during the casino scenes.

Error creating thumbnail: File missing
Colt Python - .357 Magnum
Error creating thumbnail: File missing
One of mafia hitmen is armed with a Colt Python.

Beretta M1934

Col. Faulkner brandishes a suppressed Beretta M1934 when confronting Sir Edward Matherson (Stewart Granger).

Error creating thumbnail: File missing
Beretta Model 1934 - .380 ACP
Error creating thumbnail: File missing
Faulkner with his suppressed Beretta M1934.
Error creating thumbnail: File missing
A closeup of the M1934.

Tokarev TT-33

The East German military advisor at the airport carries what is most likely a Tokarev TT-33.

Error creating thumbnail: File missing
Tokarev TT-33 - 7.62x25mm Tokarev
Error creating thumbnail: File missing
The East German officer runs out with his Tokarev in hand.

Submachine Guns

Uzi

Col. Allen Faulkner (Richard Burton) and Capt. Rafer Janders (Richard Harris) use the Uzi Submachine Gun. Lt. Shawn Fynn (Roger Moore), Sgt. Jesse Blake (John Kani), Medical Orderly Arthur Witty (Kenneth Griffith), and a few other mercenaries also use the Uzi Submachine Gun.

Error creating thumbnail: File missing
IMI Uzi used by Richard Burton in the film. One of five identical Uzis used on set. Photo courtesy of the Long Mountain Outfitters
Error creating thumbnail: File missing
Col. Allen Faulkner (Richard Burton) with his Uzi submachine gun - 9mm
Error creating thumbnail: File missing
Lt. Shawn Fynn (Roger Moore) readies his Uzi submachine gun - 9mm
Error creating thumbnail: File missing
President Limbani (Winston Ntshona) and Jesse with his Uzi.

Sa 23

A Czechoslovakian Sa 23 is seen in the parachute harness of a mercenary as they prepare to do a jump from the C-130 transport plane. Later, it is seen being used by the 4th NCO, Derek (Joe Cole), as the mercenaries capture Zembala airport. Derek is still carrying it when Lt. Fynn's detachment capture the battered old Dakota DC-3.

It is the 23 model because it is 9mm Parabellum, the later 7.62x25mm Tokarev model has a slanted pistol grip and magazine hence the ammunition. While it might be unusual for one of the mercenaries to be carrying a communist weapon during the Cold War, the design was actually sold to and adopted by South Africa during that time period. Some may think it is a South African Sanna-77 submachine gun. The Sanna-77 was a semi-automatic SMG issued to white Afrikaans farmers during the Aparthied era as a protection weapon, however many claim that is was merely an updated Sa 25 (folding stock 9mm). This is unlikely since the Sanna-77 was only manufactured as a folding stock version.

Error creating thumbnail: File missing
Sa 23 - 9x19mm
Error creating thumbnail: File missing
A mercenary carries a Sa 23.
Error creating thumbnail: File missing

Sa 25

One mercenary can be seen with a Sa 25 submachine gun, indicated by its folding stock.

Error creating thumbnail: File missing
Sa 25 - 9x19mm
Error creating thumbnail: File missing
A mercenary in the foreground carries a Sa 25.

Madsen M50

Some of the mercenaries use the Danish Madsen M50 Submachine Gun.

Error creating thumbnail: File missing
Madsen M50 - 9x19mm
Error creating thumbnail: File missing
Mercenary in front runs holding a Danish Madsen M50 Submachine gun - 9mm

Sterling L2A1

RSM Sandy Young (Jack Watson) uses a Sterling L2A1 submachine gun. Several other mercenaries use the Sterling as well.

Error creating thumbnail: File missing
Sterling Submachine Gun - 9mm
Error creating thumbnail: File missing
Sandy on the left with his Sterling.
Error creating thumbnail: File missing
Sandy Young fires his Sterling submachine gun.

MAC-10

One of the members of the hit team sent to kill Shawn Fynn (Roger Moore) uses what appears to be a MAC-10.

Error creating thumbnail: File missing
MAC-10 Submachine Gun - .45 ACP
Error creating thumbnail: File missing
One of the mafia killers (stuntman George Leech) sent to terminate Shawn Fynn carries a MAC-10 submachine gun.
Error creating thumbnail: File missing
The same bounty hunter firing his MAC-10 at a door's lock.

Rifles & Carbines

L1A1 SLR

There is a huge mix of all manners of FAL rifles in the film. The Mercenaries use a mix of FAL 50.00 and L1A1 SLR models. Some of them are firing semi auto and others are firing fully automatic.

Error creating thumbnail: File missing
British Inch Pattern L1A1 SLR (Self Loading Rifle) chambered in 7.62x51mm
Error creating thumbnail: File missing
Mercenaries all fire the L1A1 SLR (Self Loading Rifle) chambered in 7.62x51mm. Medical Orderly Arthur Witty (far left) carries an Uzi during his jump, uses an L1A1 during the first battle, and then switches back to an Uzi for the rest of the film. Actor Percy Herbert (middle) is also seen using an L1A1.
Error creating thumbnail: File missing
Mercenary Samuels (Brook Williams on the left) uses an L1A1 during the barracks attack, while Esposito on the right (Glyn Baker son of famous actor Stanley Baker) uses a full auto FN FAL 50.00 rifle.
Error creating thumbnail: File missing

FN FAL 50.61

Some of the Mercenaries and nearly all of the Simbas (General Ndofa's crack troops) carry the FN FAL 50.61 paratrooper rifle. This is odd, since the junta's forces are being aided by the Soviet Bloc (note the Cuban and East German military Advisors), thus it would have been more likely that the junta's soldiers are issued AK-47s or other Combloc weapon. However, the number of FN FALs available for the production is logical as the movie was filmed in South Africa and used South African weapons.

Error creating thumbnail: File missing
FN FAL 50.61 paratrooper rifle - 7.62x51mm
Error creating thumbnail: File missing
A Simba Guard patrols with his FN FAL 50.61 paratrooper rifle.
Error creating thumbnail: File missing
All of the pursuing Simba soldiers carry FN FAL 50.61 paratrooper rifles.
Error creating thumbnail: File missing
Clearer shot of the bottom half of the weapon.

FN FAL

A lot of the Mercenaries carry the FN FAL automatic rifle with a wooden stock and metal foreend. Faulkner is seen holding an FAL for one of the soldiers while the latter cuts through a barb wire fence. Note the slim folded bipod.

Error creating thumbnail: File missing
FN FAL with G1/StG 58 foreend and wooden buttstock - 7.62x51mm NATO. Note the folded bipod.
Error creating thumbnail: File missing
Col. Allen Faulkner (Richard Burton) holding Keith's (Percy Herbert) FN FAL while the latter is assisting cutting the barb wired fence.
Error creating thumbnail: File missing
Mercenary Keith (Percy Herbert) fires his FN FAL. Note the slim folded bipod just left of his left hand.

FN FAL 50.00

Hardy Krueger as Lt. Pieter Coetzee uses an FN FAL 50.00 with a wooden buttstock, like many of the other mercenaries.

Error creating thumbnail: File missing
FN FAL 50.00 7.62x51mm NATO
Error creating thumbnail: File missing
Pieter Coetzee (Hardy Krueger) with his FN FAL 50.00.
Error creating thumbnail: File missing
Coetzee walks with his FN FAL 50.00 whereas Sgt. Jesse Blake (John Kani) carries a different FN FAL. Later, Jesse is seen carrying and using the Uzi for the remainder of the film.

Custom L1A1 Battle Carbine

Ex-SAS member Tosh Donaldson played by Ian Yule uses a custom chopped down L1A1 SLR converted to full auto fire and equipped with a Singlepoint SP220 reflex sight and flash hider (and 40 round 7.62x51mm magazines). The actor Ian Yule was a former real life mercenary in the Congo during the 1960s under the command of Major Mike Hoare. For many years, fans of the film assumed the weapon was a South African R1 Variant, but information directly from the actor reminds us that there was an arms embargo against South Africa during the 1970s (because of apartheid). This was a custom made L1A1 carbine that came from a UK Movie armory.

Error creating thumbnail: File missing
British Inch Pattern L1A1 SLR (Self Loading Rifle) chambered in 7.62x51mm NATO - Variation of the FN FAL rifle. British & New Zealand SLRs were later fitted with black fibreglass furniture as seen here.
Error creating thumbnail: File missing
Custom shortened L1A1 SLR (Self Loading Rifle) as used in The Wild Geese (photoshopped image) - 7.62x51mm
Error creating thumbnail: File missing
Tosh Donaldson (Ian Yule) fires his Custom L1A1 Battle Carbine at the attacking plane.

SIG SG 510

During the attack on the barracks, a mercenary carries a StG 57/SIG SG 510 battle rifle. It is also seen fired in the prone position during the final firefight.

Error creating thumbnail: File missing
Swiss StG 57. The 7.62x51mm version is called the SG 510
Error creating thumbnail: File missing
Mercenary carries a Swiss StG 57. Most likely a SG 510 being that the 510 is chambered for 7.62x51mm
Error creating thumbnail: File missing
Mercenary readies his SG 510.
Error creating thumbnail: File missing
Mercenaries run for the plane, one carrying an SG 510. The one in front carries his FN MAG-58.

Machine Guns

Bren Gun

The Bren Gun is used by some of the mercenaries and Simbas, both in .303 and 7.62.

Error creating thumbnail: File missing
Bren Mk2 - .303 caliber
Error creating thumbnail: File missing
Private Esposito (Glyn Baker) (right) with his Bren.
Error creating thumbnail: File missing
Sgt. Tosh Donaldson (Ian Yule) holds his Blindicide Rocket Launcher while another mercenary fires his Bren gun
Error creating thumbnail: File missing
Sgt. Tosh Donaldson (Ian Yule) takes over the Bren Gun
Error creating thumbnail: File missing
A Simba soldier firing his Bren.

Vickers Gun

A Vickers Machine Gun is used by the mercenaries in the final firefight with the Simbas, manned first by Sgt. Jock McTaggart and then by Capt. Rafer Janders. This weapon was most likely scavenged by the mercenaries at the airport (by Colonel Faulkners orders) since it's not a light-weight weapon (55.12 lb, 25.00 kg) and was probably not parachuted in with the Mercenaries, who according to the plan, were not expected to remain for more than a few hours.

Error creating thumbnail: File missing
Vickers gun with ribbed water jacket - .303 British
Error creating thumbnail: File missing
Mercenaries ready their Vickers Machine Gun.
Error creating thumbnail: File missing
Error creating thumbnail: File missing
Error creating thumbnail: File missing

FN MAG-58

The FN MAG-58 is used by some of the mercenaries and RSM Sandy Young (Jack Watson).

Error creating thumbnail: File missing
FN MAG 58 7.62x51mm NATO
Error creating thumbnail: File missing
RSM Sandy Young (Jack Watson) whips quickly around with an FN MAG-58.
Error creating thumbnail: File missing
Mercenary takes cover with his FN MAG-58.

Fire Support

RL-83 Blindicide Rocket Launcher

Tosh Donaldson (Ian Yule) carries and uses a Belgian RL-83 Blindicide multiple times during the final firefight. Tosh's rocket launcher does not have the blast shield installed.

Error creating thumbnail: File missing
Blindicide RL-83 - 83mm
Error creating thumbnail: File missing
Tosh fires his RL-83 Blindicide.
Error creating thumbnail: File missing
Frontal view.
Error creating thumbnail: File missing
Reloading the launcher. This looks more like a mortar round than a genuine RL-83 rocket.

Mk II hand grenade

The Mk II Hand Grenade is mostly seen used by Rafer Janders (Richard Harris) when he and Allan Faulkner (Richard Burton) rescue Shawn Fynn (Roger Moore). They are also carried by all of the mercenaries during the mission.

Error creating thumbnail: File missing
Mk 2 "Pineapple" High-Explosive Fragmentation hand grenade
Error creating thumbnail: File missing
An American Mk II hand grenade of WW2 vintage is used by Rafer Janders.
Error creating thumbnail: File missing

Mills Bomb

At least one mercenary is seen with the British Mills Bomb of World War 1 heritage but updated and still manufactured even as late as the 1980s.

Error creating thumbnail: File missing
No. 36M Mk.I "Mills Bomb" High-Explosive Fragmentation hand grenade.
Error creating thumbnail: File missing
Private Esposito with a Mills Bomb hanging from his chest pocket.