This video delves into the extremely rare Chassepot Model 1866 rifle specifically designed for African cavalry. It explains the modifications made to the standard Chassepot to accommodate a cavalryman's needs, such as reinforced stock and altered sling swivels for diagonal carry. The video highlights that only 12,000 of these were produced by St Etienne in 1869 and that very few survive today, often being rebuilt into standard infantry models. It also briefly mentions the broader 'Chassepot to FAMAS: French Military Rifles 1866-2016' book.
This Q&A session covers a wide range of firearm-related topics, including collecting tips for WWI/WWII firearms, discussions on support weapons in .280 British, the purpose of the Stoner 63 system, and potential modern pistols for James Bond. It also delves into specific firearm features like H&K drum sights and folding stocks, explores historical firearms such as needlefire rifles and the FN-D vs. ZB-30, and touches upon the .280 British and .45 Liberator cartridges. The video also addresses collecting advice, the impact of audience size on public statements, and the reasoning behind choosing the WWSD2020 over other AR platforms.
This video delves into the fascinating origins of the Mauser legacy with an examination of the Mauser-Norris Prototype. It highlights the early work of Paul and Wilhelm Mauser, their initial rejected design presented to the Austrian Army, and the pivotal involvement of American sales representative Samuel Norris. The development process in Liege, Belgium, and the attempt to convert Chassepot rifles to metallic cartridges are detailed. The narrative traces the path from this prototype to the iconic Mauser Model 1871 and ultimately the renowned Mauser Model 1898, solidifying Mauser's position as a leader in small arms manufacturing. The video gratefully acknowledges the Liege Arms Museum and the Paul Mauser Archive for their assistance.
This video details Italy's modernization of its firearms post-1866 Prussian victory, focusing on the conversion of existing muzzleloaders to needle-fire rifles. It highlights Salvatore Carcano's system, which reused 17.5mm barrels and utilized lighter paper cartridges, offering an impressive rate of fire for its time and a cost-effective solution. The conversion process involved cutting the barrel and adding a bolt, with the Carcano system incorporating safety features. The video notes the rarity of these converted 1844/67 Artillery models due to their limited use and subsequent scrapping.
This video delves into the fascinating 1874 Dreyse Needlefire rifle, a significant but ultimately transitional firearm. Originally invented in 1836 and Prussia's standard military rifle for three decades, the needlefire system was rendered obsolete by the advent of metallic cartridges. The video highlights a specific modification by Franz von Dreyse, patented in 1874, which introduced automatic cocking, aligning it with contemporary bolt-action designs. While this version saw some commercial sporting use, the featured rifle is a rare example of a government purchase made for the Baden border guards and customs police, showcasing a late stage in the Dreyse needlefire's evolution.
This video delves into the history and mechanics of the Chassepot needle rifle, a significant French infantry firearm adopted in 1866. It highlights the Chassepot as the French response to the German Dreyse needle rifle and notes its status as one of the few needlefire rifles to see widespread military service. The description explains the needlefire concept, involving a firing pin piercing a paper cartridge to detonate an internal primer, and acknowledges the breech sealing challenges inherent in this system, while still recognizing it as a substantial upgrade from muzzleloading rifles. It also mentions the rifle's successor, the 1874 Gras rifle, which was a conversion to brass cartridges.
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