Direx Universal Gun

Rexim DIREX
Type	Battle rifle
Place of origin	Switzerland
Production history
Designed	1956
Manufacturer	Rexim S.A.
Specifications
Length	1170mm
Barrel length	490mm
Cartridge	7.62x51mm NATO
Caliber	7.62mm
Action	Roller delayed blowback
Rate of fire	600rpm
Maximum firing range	200-1000m
Feed system	30 round detachable box magazine
Sights	Iron

The DIREX DUG (Direx Universal Gun) is a prototype battle rifle developed by Rexim S.A. of Switzerland.

Development

In the early 1950s, a firm existed known as Rexim S.A., with offices in Geneva. While CETME, of Spain, was developing the unfinished German Sturmgewehr 45 (M), the Rexim company began an parallel development of the DIREX DUG, a weapon produced by an unnamed designer. The DIREX DUG used a roller-locking delayed blowback operation. Although there were minor differences from the CETME rifle, such as the location of the charging handle and recoil spring, the close relationship between it and the DIREX is apparent. The DIREX was chambered for the 7.62×51mm NATO cartridge. However, only one or two prototypes were made, and the project was abandoned.

The then head of the CETME program Dipl-Ing Heynen, says "it should be mentioned, somewhat as a curiosity, that in one of the Spanish military factories a competitive weapon was developed that, however far removed from the possibility of living up to the required conditions, was nevertheless conscientiously tested and compared by a Commission which the War Ministry had named, under the guidance of the EMC, interestingly, even though the final conclusions of this Commission stated that while neither weapon could be regarded as fully developed, they had to concede that the CETME possessed certain essential advantages."

See also

• List of battle rifles
• List of delayed-blowback firearms