This video explores the French M14 conversion, a modification of the Gras rifle to fire the 8mm Lebel cartridge during World War I. Faced with a shortage of Lebel rifles, France rebarreled surplus Gras rifles. The modification involved retaining the front portion of the Gras barrel and integrating a new 8mm Lebel barrel and rear sight. This allowed the use of existing Gras stocks and bayonets, and provided a means to redirect newly manufactured Lebel rifles to the front lines. The video highlights the historical context and the technical aspects of this wartime improvisation, while also noting potential safety concerns due to the Gras receiver's design for black powder pressures.
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