This video explores the unusual history of the rod bayonet in U.S. military service, primarily in the late 1800s and early 1900s. It details attempts to lighten soldier loads by integrating an internal rod or tri-bladed bayonet into rifles like the Hall, 1873 Trapdoor Springfield, and M1903 Springfield. The video highlights the rod bayonet's eventual failure due to fragility, bending, and obstruction of the barrel, culminating in President Theodore Roosevelt's direct involvement. It also briefly touches on a similar, poorly received concept by the British for the No. 4 rifle.
This video explores the fascinating history of the first Springfield M1903 rifle ever produced, Serial Number One. It details its initial configuration as a rod bayonet version in .30-03 and its subsequent reconfiguration to a non-rod bayonet with a .30-06 barrel, which was common for low serial number rifles of that era. The rifle's unique journey included being issued to a soldier deploying to the Western Front in WWI, only to be confiscated by higher command due to its significant serial number. The soldier was then issued an M1917 Enfield in exchange. The video also mentions sponsors like Ventura Munitions, BLACKHAWK!, and Blue Alpha Gear, and promotes the TFBTV Patreon page for exclusive content and giveaways.
This video from Forgotten Weapons dives deep into the early production of the Springfield Model 1903 rifle, specifically focusing on a 1904-manufactured example. It highlights the significant changes that occurred in 1905 and 1906, particularly the initial adoption and subsequent abandonment of the rod bayonet in favor of a traditional blade bayonet. The discussion also touches upon the improved cartridge and rifle redesigns that followed. Additionally, the video addresses two frequently misunderstood historical aspects: the safety concerns surrounding low serial number 1903s due to heat treatment issues, and the patent royalty payments allegedly made to Germany for adopting Mauser elements. Related videos on Springfield sniper variants and the Mauser Gewehr 1898 are also linked.
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