ALLSTEEL SCOUT SCOPE MOUNT FOR AR-15/M-16

Allsteel Rifle Mounts, Inc. makes a unique, innovative scout mount for the AR-15/M-16 series of rifles. The mount is an extremely strong precision machines two part unit which consists of a base permanently attached to the front of the carryhandle (but removable), and a quick detachable Weaver rail. The height of the optics, mounted to the QD weaver rail, is adjustable and can be set to the position desired by the shooter either directly in the iron sight plane or above. Allsteel makes rails for the Bushnell Holosight, Trigicon Reflex and the C-More. No part of the 4.5 ounce Allsteel Scout Mount attaches to the top part of the carryhandle in the sight channel. Therefore scopes or Night Vision can be mounted on the top of the carryhandle with traditional mounts. The mount can be removed and will return to zero every time. Allsteel also makes target rails for the AR-15/M-16, an H&K Low Rail and an MP-5 Ultra-Low mount. The H&K rails are now available in either fixed or quick detachable. Inquires and orders by mail only. For more info or to place an order contact: Allsteel Rifle Mounts, Inc., Dept. SAR, POB 668, Godfrey, IL 62035.

THE LIQUIDATOR FROM EAGLE INDUSTRIES

Water at your fingertips! Eagles Industries LIQUIDATOR(tm) series has a product for every situation. The Liquidator(tm) HSC-70 holds 70 oz. of water that you can wear backpack style or it easily fits into packs, bags, or can be attached to the back of a vest. They also make the LIQUA-PAK(tm) which is made from #1000 denier Cordura nylon, uses 1/4” closed cell foam for padding and insulation, and has padded shoulder straps and a waist belt. There is a large outside pouch and has slotted webbing on the outside for slide clips. It comes with a 90 oz. pure urethane bladder with radiused corners so there is no bacteria build-up. The Liqua-Pak(tm)II is the ultimate hydration system and is featured in the photo. It is also made from #1000 denier Cordura nylon, and has two outside zippered pockets. There is CoolMax(tm) on the backside for coolness and comfort and it also has detachable padded shoulder straps and a waist belt. There is a top carry handle and a 90 oz. bladder. All of the hydration systems have a push-pull valve which prevents accidental leaking and a bite valve is also furnished for hands free drinking. For more information contact Eagle Industries, Dept. SAR, 400 Biltmore Drive, Suite 530, Fenton, MO 63026. Phone: 1-314-343-7547. Fax: 1-314-349-0321. You can also visit them on the web at www.eagleindustries.com.

GUNS.COM

Denver, CO. General Communications. Inc., a leader in International Trade Publications has released it latest web site, “GUNS.COM”. The newest site contains the latest technology in all weaponry and accessories. Included are sections which include The Corners (Hunters, Shooters, Gaming, Collectors, Law Enforcement, Sporting Enthusiasts, Militaria, Knives, Paintball, Archery, Air Rifles), What’s New (Press Releases, Updates, Changes), Calendar of Events (Shows, Competitions, Seminars, Conferences), Reference Library (Facts and Data, Laws, Specifications and Schematics, Key word and Company Searches), Web Connections (Links), Chat Rooms (Special Interest and General Discussion), The Store (Shops, Free Offers, Magazines and Catalogs), Advertising (Classifieds, Wanted To Buy/Sell, Rentals, Miscellaneous, Display Ads), and Web Services (Hosting, Design, E-Mail, List-Services, Surveys). The official launch was at the 1998 Shot Show. The address, naturally, is GUNS.COM.

RAFTER SEVEN AMMUNITION

There is now a now source for high quality remanufactured ammunition. The company is called Rafter Seven Ammunition Company and is headed by Lex Bush. Rafter Seven offers the highest quality of ammo and very fast service. The ammo is available in either remanufactured (used high quality brass) or new manufactured using all new brass. Lex offer several loadings in each of the following calibers; .380 auto, 9mm, .38 Super, ..38 Special, .357 Magnum, .40 S&W, 10mm, .44 Magnum, .45 ACP, ..45 Colt, .223 and .308. I have used some of his .223 and .308 ammo in testing and can tell you that it is some of the best I have seen. I have shot some of the tightest groups I have ever fired using his .223 V-Max and his .308, 186 grain Match Hollow Point loads. He also offers the excellent new Hornady .308 A-Max load. For a price list or to place an order contact him at Rafter Seven Ammunition Company, Dept. SAR, 62 South Highway 23, Dighton, KS 67839. You can also contact him by phone at 1-888-397-2519 or fax at 1-316-397-2559. Dealer and volume pricing available.

Despite the fact that Bergmann designed many successful pistol models dating from the early 1980’s it was Hugo Schmeisser that designed the MP-18.

Some may argue that the Italian 1915 Villar Perosa was not actually a submachine gun due to its lack of stock. Still, it was chambered for a sub rifle round- the 9mm Glisenti. The later OVP 1918 model of the Perosa did utilize a conventional stock although retaining the odd magazine on top feature, which seemed to find favor only down under in Australia with the Owen and F1’s of later years.

The Bergmann used a less than conventional magazine also. It borrowed the Luger “Snail Drum” which fitted from the left side of the gun. The left side feed was not that widely copied except by the succeeding Bergmann’s (MP18,I and MP28) as well as the British Sten series. The feature of the 32 round capacity magazine became an almost universal feature. From an overview 70-75% of all submachine guns still use a 32 round magazine. The double barreled Italian V.P.’s actually had two 25 round mags or 50 rounds between them. The later 1918 VP models have only a single 25 magazine.

A second carry over feature from the Bergmann was the caliber and cartridge, that being the 9x 19mm Parabellum or Luger round. Certainly well over 50% of all submachine gun designs have utilized the 9mm caliber and almost as many of the 9mm Parabellum cartridge. Even the Italian VP’s Glisenti cartridge was essentially a weakened 9mm Parabellum.

Another innovative carry over from the MP-18,I was the barrel jacket. Well over a fourth of all submachine guns have utilized some type of perforated barrel jacket. The U.S. has been an exception, if you over-look the 1919 Thompson and the Smith & Wesson Model 76. Weight and compactness consideration emerged as did advanced heat resistant materials, and the barrel jacket was deleted on many later models of submachine guns. Although the MP-18,I was not the first automatic weapon to use a barrel jacket it was indeed the first submachine gun to employee one. Without overly digressing, Bergmann needed look only to its 8mm MG 15 for the barrel jacket feature.

One unusual feature of the MP 18,I which did not carry over to other designs excepting the MP 28 and the Lancaster was the use of cooling holes at the front end of the barrel jacket. Eight circular holes surrounded the actual barrel in an attempt to maximize cooling.

Another feature which the O.V.P. and most other submachine guns in-corporated was a fire selector allowing for semi-auto modes of operation. This feature was absent from the Bergmann MP 18,I. A selector system was included with the later MP 28II Bergmann. Perhaps it is worth a passing mention that the MP 18,I, MP38, MP40 and MP40 II were the only major German submachine lacking a fire select system.

The other commonly copied feature of the MP 18,I was that it used a non-locking straight blow back feature of operation. Probably nine out of ten submachine guns use this system.

The Bergmann 18,I also used a fairly simple system of manufacture, especially when compared to contemtaries such as the Mauser 71/84, 88, or 98 rifles or the POB “Luger”. The most complicated part being the 32 round magazine, but this was an already existing part which Bergmann merely procured. The Bergmann plant also utilized the very innovative process of sub-contracting the manufacture of parts. It was only in the 1980’s that an American firm fully stylized this process. The Willey .45 Winchester gas operated pistol sub-contracted all the parts, and merely assembled the guns, much as Bergmann did in 1918!

Given the comparative cost, speed, and ease of manufacture combined with its effectiveness of fire the MP 18,I was indeed the “Weapon of the future”. One soldier armed with an MP 18,I who successful survived the distance to an opposing enemy trench was more effective than an entire squad armed with five shot bolt action rifles, assuming there were no Alvin A. Yorks in that squad.

By 1918 Germany was mostly of the defensive mind set and most MP 18’s were employed to reinforce and defend MGO8 and MGO8/15 positions. Some were of course issued to Sturmabteilung or assault troops but most of the assaulting was being done by the fresh American troops given the French doctrine of “always fighting to the last American.”

The German General Staff, being safely behind the lines and somewhat out of touch, still seemed to think in terms of offensive operations. To emphasize the ostentastiousness of their offensive operations plans, a wheeled handcart of ammunition was to be provided and shared by each pair of Bergmann submachine gunners. A horse drawn cart would probably have been envisioned except most of the horses were dead by 1918!

The basic concept of armament and issuance of the MP 18,I was that each N.C.O. and theoretically about 10% of the troops were to be so equipped.

On paper each company was allocated one submachine gun squad of 12 men. Half or six men with the MP 18,I and half carrying ammo! Again, they weren’t about to exhaust the ammo supply for these guns. Also given the likelihood of the gunner being killed or disabled it was the ammo bearer’s turn to try shooting.

Weak points of the MP 18,I were the open nature of the receiver tube’s recoil slot and the ejection port. No provision was made to keep it free from dust, dirt or mud as was with the bolt cover for the Gew. 98 Mausers. Another major short-coming was the magazine, which was heavy, bulky and the bad balance it sometimes gave the gun. In addition, a special neck sleeve spacer was needed for proper feeding. Further a special loading tool was essential for reloading the drum. Given today’s cost of about five hundred and up for a snail drum and the number of anxious “Luger” collectors in the market for one, small wonder so many MP 18,I’s have no magazine. The loading tool is about $300 and up, and is also eagerly sought by “Luger” collectors. Surprisingly, the neck spacer sleeve is the cheapest of the must-have parts at $100 or less, this due to the scarcity of the Bergmann submachine guns that require them.

Without a doubt the rarest accessory item is the aforementioned ammo carts. Being of wood construction they were smashed and burned for heat during the winter months as was almost every other wooden item excepting gun stocks. Never have I ever encountered a picture of the said ammo carts.

Given the innovative designs, history and German origin, these guns are highly collectable. There was a refit to a simpler straight stick mag after the war and the original snail drum models could be compared to the 1921A Thompsons. Most were modernized or modified, increasing the rarity of the original guns.

Only two warring nations fielded a submachine gun in World War I – Italy and Germany. Although allies in World War II they were adversaries in World War I. When peace came, the Treaty of Versaille forbade the military use of submachine gun and long barreled pistols in Germany.

They were still permitted for police use and therefore bore the 1920 date common to many “Lugers” and some shortened Mauser C-96 pistols.

Given the seemingly insatiable appetite for German guns and military collector’s items both here and abroad, MP 18,I are not often encountered and expensive when found. Although essential for any meaningful submachine gun collection, due to its rarity, it is understandable when absent. Most Museums are missing said specimens. Total production was put at around 35000 in World War I. A respectable number since this was also the total production of Japanese Type 100 Nambus in all World War II. The Type 100 Nambus were the main Japanese submachine gun.

80 years of Treaties, gun laws and modifications not to mention the scrapping or destruction of these weapons at the end of World War I, make it impossible to estimate their current existence. Several thousand world wide certainly would seem an excessive estimate.

Designation: Machine Pistol 18 I
Weight: 9-10 lbs.
Loaded weight with mag: 12 lbs.
Length: 32”
Caliber: 9 x 19mm Parabellum (9mm Luger)
Firing Rate: 350-450 rpm
Type of operation: full-auto blow back
Magazine: 32rd snail drum
Sights: open flip 100-200 meter settings
Caliber velocity: 1200-1350 fps
Estimated value: $3500-$5000
Current national usage: None
Staring roles: Zeppelin, The Land Time Forgot

For most of the twentieth Century, the African continent has been a repository of obsolete weapons that would make any collector salivate. However, most of these antiques served with various armed forces and, six decades after World War One ended, the Vicker’s watercooled machinegun was still burning .303 in anger.

The South African Defense Force (SADF) had been equipped with these machineguns during both World Wars and retained them in their armories up until the 1963 United Nations Voluntary Arms Embargo. With increasing guerilla activity by the African National Congress, replacing the Vicker’s became less likely with each passing year.

During ‘Operation Savannah’ (as the SADF called the Angolan Civil War of 1975-76) the Vicker’s was still front-line issue for SADF units but afterwards became reserved for Citizen Force static defense up on the border (such as the South African Coloured Corps base on the Eerste River).

According to Wayne Coetzee, a member of the 1 Parachute Battalion pathfinders attached to CSI (chief of Staff Intelligence) during the mid-80’s and a veteran of Operation ‘Modular’, the range and firepower of the old machineguns impressed his comrades too much to leave them behind at base.

The pathfinders mounted six Vickers on a Blesbok (An open-back utility version of the Casspir four-wheeled Mine Protected Personnel Carrier), three on each side. At first there were a few raised eyebrows and muffled chuckles when the idea was mentioned, but after seeing their potential the South African soldiers were soon fighting for a chance to man the guns. Eventually, the two-man Blesbok crew took over as the Vicker’s ‘gunners’. Though they were still supplemented with other troops when the need arose.

One of them, Sgt. Sterzel, used the machineguns to excellent effect during a contact of 6 Sept ’86, where 15 of Paras took on an estimated 350 FAPLAs (Angola Communist troops) according to the FAPLA Colonel they later captured. The Sergeant kept on firing even after the Blesbok took a direct hit from an RPG, with shrapnel flying up to hit him in the chest.

The Vicker’s were used to support the .50 Brownings mounted on the Casspirs, their amazing range making them very effective when FAPLA units moved into the open while attempting river crossings, etc. The only drawback was that the combination was heavy, and the Blesbock got stuck in soft sand a few times.

For long range fire, none of the complicated indirect fire sights were used and the only sighting aids were the Pathfinder’s binoculars. In some circumstances, the Vicker’s would be fired into an area where FAPLA units were hiding while the ‘Ground Shout’ Casspir ( a wheeled armored personnel carrier with a public address system) broadcast psychological warfare messages. The Pathfinders were later told that this produced the desired results.

As late as 1988, there were instructional posters for the Vickers (and the Bren) hanging in the SADF Armorer’s workshop in Grahamstown.

NOTE: Around or shortly after Operation ‘Savannah’, South African Vickers (as well as Bren guns) were converted to 7.62mm NATO. Apparently, this was a gradual process which allowed those weapons remaining in .303 to consume the dwindling stocks of .303.

Problem Solving With Low Signature Weapons: Part II

Hiding the Shooter

Using a suppressor to hide the location of the shooter is most commonly used by military snipers employing conventional (i.e., supersonic) ammunition. The suppressor thus enables the sniper to shoot more times (i.e., engage more targets) than might otherwise be prudent. Using a suppressor also dramatically reduces the risk from effective counter-sniper fire and improves the odds of a successful withdrawal from the enemy contact if circumstances warrant. Protection from counter-fire can also be an advantage in some law-enforcement scenarios, as well.

The suppressor hides the location of the shooter for three reasons.

(1) At typical engagement distances, most suppressors will lower the muzzle signature to less than the action noise of a self-loading rifle and less than the bullet flight noise. Thus, an individual who is downrange will attempt to locate the source of the sound not from the muzzle blast, but rather from the bullet flight noise. It is not uncommon for an individual downrange to turn his attention 45-180 degrees away from the shooter under such circumstances. I’ve experienced this phenomenon myself, both from the shooter’s position, and from an observer’s position as bullets fired from a silenced rifle passed close to my body while standing in the open. Both are dramatic experiences.

Generating this level of confusion by the use of a suppressor only works when the observer is within an arc of about 150 degrees in front of the shooter. Suppressors are less effective when observers are to either side of the shooter. Observers behind the shooter can locate the source of a suppressed shot from the direction of the sound as readily as if the shooter was using an unsuppressed rifle, as long as he or she can hear the ballistic crack. (Of course, if the observer can hear the muzzle blast or action noise from behind the shooter, then locating the source of the shot is easy.)

Using a suppressor with supersonic ammunition confuses downrange observers because the brain interprets the location of the sound to be perpendicular to the shock wave generated by the bullet. The amount of confusion is actually determined by three variables: bullet speed, distance between the observer and the shooter, and distance between the observer and the bullet flight path. Equations can be used to precisely calculate the amount of anticipated observer bias (the angle between the real and apparent location of the shooter) at a given temperature.

Another reason some individuals down range are confused as to the source of a suppressed gunshot is that the sound of the bullet strike draws their attention in the absence of a perceived muzzle signature. If bullet impact is behind them, for example, individuals between the shooter and the point of bullet impact may well turn their back to the shooter.

Furthermore, the advanced operator can position himself so that natural reflective surfaces (such as buildings, telephone poles, boulders and vehicles) will reflect the ballistic crack of a supersonic projectile away from the shooter, further enhancing the natural subterfuge generated by the wake produced by a supersonic bullet fired from a suppressed rifle. This skill takes some effort to develop, but it will become as natural as playing billiards, given enough practice.

Ironically, when using subsonic ammunition, an observer near the bullet flight path can frequently follow the “swishing” flight noise of the bullet back to the source of the shot. If a target is missed, he or she may have a pretty good idea where to shoot back, depending on such factors as environmental conditions and observer alertness.

(2) Using a suppressor also dramatically reduces the amount of energy available to disturb grass, leaves, twigs, and dust. This mitigates one of the greatest risks to the survival of a military sniper.

(3) While flash hiders can be quite effective at eliminating flash, which can be the most dramatic giveaway of a shooter’s position, they do nothing to tame recoil. And recoil compensators do not eliminate flash. All suppressors provide a substantial reduction of recoil, and properly designed suppressors dampen muzzle flash more effectively than flash hiders.

Thus a suppressor, combined with good field craft, can maximize the effectiveness and survivability of a sniper. One aspect of good field craft is rarely discussed, yet could easily negate the advantages of using a suppressor, relates to the ejection of brass.

The ejection of a spent cartridge case can catch sunlight and blaze for an instant like a camera flash. In Vietnam, U.S. snipers found that the flash of expended brass was one of the best tools for locating enemy shooters. This phenomenon is the main reason why most military snipers prefer manually operated, rather than semiautomatic, rifles. Admittedly, at least in theory, manually operated rifles should also be capable of better accuracy and reliability. When ejecting a case from a bolt-action rifle, the military operator should operate the bolt slowly and quietly until he can palm the empty case. Never leaving behind the spent cases (or food wrappers or other artifacts) has become a common operational theme among military snipers, so that the enemy cannot readily detect where the sniper’s hide was located. This makes tracking the sniper and anticipating future hide locations much more difficult. Getting back to the stealthy ejection of a spent case, it is desirable if circumstances permit to actually move the rifle under the operator’s body to help muffle the sound and to shield any possible glint from the brass case.

Law-enforcement snipers do not require the severe brass-management strategies now en vogue with military snipers. The simple expedient of draping a camouflaged cloth, frequently called a sniper veil, over the telescopic sight and back over the action and head. These cloths are generally large enough to fold on the ground to catch expended brass and shield any glint from escaping. The veil also helps shade the sniper from hot sun or shield the face and hands from cold wind. Fishing weights may be sewn into the corners of the cloth to keep it from fluttering on windy days.

While suppressor technology has matured dramatically in recent years, one aspect of stealthy shooting remains virtually ignored: the bright reflective finish of the brass cartridge case. Surely a manufacturer could develop a practical coating process that would give the case a non-reflective black finish. That would greatly facilitate the speed of follow-up shots and might also make semiautomatic rifles more practical for military sniping. Non-reflective black cases would certainly complement the use of a suppressor.

Although this attention to detailed field craft is highly relevant to the military operator, palming spent cases and some other aspects of military tactics vis-à-vis the employment of low-signature weapons are not really relevant to the law-enforcement officer. It should be emphasized that the mission of a military sniper is vastly different from a law-enforcement sharpshooter. A police marksman will attempt to get as close to the target as possible since placing a cold shot into a target’s CNS (central nervous system) is essential to instantaneously eliminate the subject’s ability to harm hostages or officers. Police shots will normally be less than 100 yards. A military sniper, on the other hand, will try to stay as far away from the target as possible to reduce the danger of effective counter-fire after he places a center-of-mass hit on a high-value target such as an officer, RTO operator, or personnel operating a crew-served weapon. Therefore, U.S. military snipers would prefer to take shots from a distance of 500-600 yards or more. Thus, bear in mind as this discussion continues that military and law-enforcement technologies do overlap—but missions, tactics and rules of engagement are commonly quite divergent.

The stealthiness of a suppressed gunshot has implications beyond strictly tactical considerations. Stealthiness also has what might be termed strategic implications; a properly employed low-signature weapon can prevent awkward to downright ugly problems with citizen sensibilities and headline-hungry news media.

Reducing Media-Relations and Public-Relations Problems

This area probably represents the single most useful—and the single most underutilized—application for silencer technology in the law-enforcement arena.

Outside of urban areas, common problems faced by law-enforcement officers include putting down an animal injured by traffic and responding to calls reporting a potentially rabid animal or a poisonous snake. One officer from southern Wisconsin recently had to deal with a crazed deer wreaking havoc inside a hardware store, another in Louisiana responded to a poisonous snake in a swimming pool, and an officer in Alaska had to dispatch a moose that tangled with a pickup truck. Using a duty sidearm or shotgun to put down an injured or potentially dangerous animal poses a potential public-relations nightmare if a small crowd has gathered or the animal is in a residential area. Most civilians are mightily upset by the noise of nearby gunfire, and their discomfort level is directly proportional to the intensity of the noise.

Perhaps the most useful tool for such problems is an integrally suppressed .22 rimfire pistol, although one should have previously consulted with a game biologist or veterinarian as to shot placement when dealing with anything larger than small game. This is particularly important when dealing with a potentially rabid animal, since its brain must be kept intact for analysis. Destroying the brain or allowing the animal to escape due to an improperly placed bullet would subject the victim of a bite wound to a grizzly series of anti-rabis shots.

Most silenced .22 pistols are built on the Ruger Mark II and feature a suppressor of the same diameter as the receiver. Thus most individuals will view this as a bull-barrel pistol even seen from an arm span or two. Furthermore, close observers who see such a firearm being used seem to conclude from the minimal noise generated by the pistol that some sort of low-power “humane” specialty ammunition was used. That’s especially useful if ultrasensitive environmentalists are encountered. Anyone inside a structure is unlikely to hear anything at all. I once fired a double tap from a suppressed Ruger pistol just outside of a frame structure three arm spans away from a woman washing dishes in her kitchen, and she didn’t hear a thing through the window that separated us.

A suppressed .22 pistol has several other interesting attributes. It can be kept unobtrusively in a small hardcase in the trunk of a squad until needed; a suppressed .22 rifle would tend to get in the way, present a higher profile when responding to a call, and might be more prone to damage in a squad’s trunk. The suppressed pistol can be carried in the case until ready to shoot. Simply evaluate the problem, make sure of a safe back stop, shoot as necessary, and dispose of the remains according to departmental policy. You should police up the fired cases as well. It’s amazing how discreet this process can be when the principal sound is the soft “thud, thud” of .22 caliber bullet impact.

Sometimes, however, a suppressed, bolt-action .22 rimfire rifle is the tool of choice. When employed with subsonic ammunition, this tool excels in two principal areas: (1) animal control in open areas such as airports and parks: and (2) the selective destruction of objects such as lights that create a problem for surveillance or entry teams. If one has the luxury of time, problem lights should be taken out a day or two prior to an operation—preferably while using a masking sound such as a loud motorcycle, garbage truck or helicopter flyby, as appropriate, to cover the tinkle of breaking glass and any possible ricochet. The use of masking sounds to hide a suppressed gunshot dates back at least as far as the Vietnam War. American suppressor designer Don Walsh, who spent considerable time in Indochina and now resides in Thailand, coined the term sonic camouflage for the practice.

Then there is the matter of media relations. The media seem to operate on the principal that “if it bleeds, it leads.” This problem is exacerbated by a general lack of understanding concerning the ethical and legal aspects of using lethal force. Furthermore, media personnel and lawyers also tend to have an appalling lack of understanding regarding firearms and ammunition. Using a .44 Magnum, for example, is likely to be perceived as excessive force. Yet, despite the fact that the .308 Winchester delivers three times more energy downrange, it seems much smaller to the eye and doesn’t have that nasty “M” word in its name. Thus it should come as no surprise that using a suppressed firearm reduces the perceived level of force by reducing the weapon’s noise.

Using a suppressed firearm also redirects media attention. If supersonic ammunition is used, the shot will appear to have originated near the point where the round struck. If subsonic ammunition is employed, the media may not even know when lethal force is used until other activity or a press briefing reveals that the situation has been resolved.

Beside providing a means to prevent PR problems, sound suppressors are useful for solving a variety of additional problems which will be examined in the conclusion to this discussion in the next issue of SAR. Specifically, we’ll explore the use of low-signature weapons to (1) enhance command and control; (2) preserve operator hearing, especially in confined spaces; (3) reduce the likelihood of detonation when operating in a potentially explosive atmosphere; (4) improve the quality and safety of live-fire training; (5) reduce muzzle blast and recoil; (6) safeguard human night vision and electronic night vision devices; (7) reduce the risk of so-called “friendly fire” accidents; (8) increase operational security, and (9) improve both practical accuracy and the speed of follow-up shots.

Although not classified as “small arms”, the author recently evaluated several functioning machine gun replicas, which are used for a variety of training and hobby purposes. They make for an interesting addition to any gun collection… These are not intended as childrens toys or for shooting at other people. All safety rules should be strictly followed.

About a year ago, I heard about a new type of gun that claimed to provide suppressed, full-auto firepower with no transfer fees or special licensing. After investigating, I found that 500-round magazines were available, along with a choice of M-16, HK51, MP5, Sig551, Aug, and other models. Discovering that an M-60 and Minigun was also manufactured, I decided it was time to get serious about these claims, and to find out what all the fuss was about. It sounded highly improbable in today’s maize of Federal paperwork and oversight into our personal lives, particularly in the Class III world. Believe it or not, these gun options are still available in the form of functioning air-gun replicas. Officially classified by the U.S. Department of Commerce as “look alike” or “imitation” firearms, any person who is at least 18 years old, and lives where there are no local or state laws that prohibit ownership, may indulge in the full auto experience. Being curious about ATF’s official position on these guns, I contacted the Technology Branch Chief to get the governments definition of their classification. His response is shown in the accompanying letter.

Also known as Airsoft or SoftAir guns, these weapons are manufactured in Japan by Tokyo Marui as actual functioning guns that fire plastic BB’s. The BB’s are propelled via a piston-driven electric motor within the gun. Advertised as some of the finest replica firearms in the industry, the guns have the same dimensions, look, feel, and heft of the real thing, usually at a fraction of the price. I just had to try some of them out to see for myself what they are like. These guns are constructed of metal alloys and high impact ABS resins (similar polymers used in Glock, H&K, and other firearms). All the gun parts are close copies of the original manufacturer, and it is very difficult to note any differences from the real thing in many cases. Rear sights are adjustable for windage and elevation. They can be adapted to an assortment of available accessories, such as tactical lights, scopes, slings, etc. Stocks retract and extend. Magazine release buttons function just like the original guns. Selector switches and safeties also work.

My reaction when I saw these units for the first time was that they could be used for tactical weapons training for law enforcement personnel. They can certainly provide a realistic operating tool for SWAT teams, which train in confined spaces and in urban areas. I wasn’t the only person who was thinking of this application. Law enforcement units in several states are currently using these guns for tactical training purposes. Some military units, and several television shows and movies have also used them. After evaluating and shooting several of these models, I’m convinced that they can provide a multitude of uses for both the professional and novice alike.

I was able to evaluate these guns with assistance from a company named 747 Imports, of Kennesaw, Georgia. 747 Imports is an authorized distributor/retailer for the Tokyo Marui Air Soft machine gun replicas. The owner, Deepak Bakshi, has been involved with these guns for about 10 years. His company offers sales, technical advice, repair, and service. Prices range from about $465 for a FA-MAS to around $1000 for an M60. Most units are priced somewhere between $500 and $600. Full color catalogs are available for $5 (refundable on first purchase) upon request. It may sound like a lot of money for a replica machine gun, but once I saw them in person, I was impressed with their appearance, durability, and overall quality. With the price of transferable machine guns climbing steadily higher and higher, usually several thousand dollars worth, those individuals who have the desire to experience full auto fun now have a viable alternative.

Operational Characteristics/Features:

The heart of each gun is a rechargeable ni-cad or lithium battery. It provides power to an electric motor, which then drives a piston providing compressed air to fire the BB’s. All of the components of the air system are fully contained within the gun itself. No air compressor lines, exposed wires/switches, or compressed air canisters to run dry at the most inopportune moments. The battery is designed to provide approximately 2500 rounds of shooting before recharging is required. Batteries recharge to full power in about two hours, and are completely contained within the gun and out of sight. All models function in both semi and full automatic modes, and are also configured with a working safety. Some models are equipped to fire in the three round burst mode as well.

The plastic BB’s are 6mm (.24 caliber) in diameter. They are offered in weights of .14, .20, and .25 grams. Lighter BB’s are good for long range shooting, but are more easily deflected by windy conditions. Overall, I found the .20 gram weight provided the best performance for both short and long-range applications. The heavier .25 gram projectiles are the most accurate at short ranges. Barrels are not rifled, so the projectiles are launched without the benefits of spinning for stabilization. As far as ammunition costs are concerned, these replicas can be fed at a much cheaper rate than the real gun. A pack of 3500 BB’s cost about $25. Special tracer BB’s cost about $25/600.

Each gun has a detachable magazine which houses the BB’s. Loading is simply accomplished by either pouring the projectiles into the mag, or using a loading tube/plunger. The high capacity magazines are the easiest to load, as all you have to do is pour them in. Filling the standard M-16 magazine took about 20 seconds. Once loaded, the magazine is “dialed-up” with a ratchet gear located on the bottom of the magazine. The dial-up provides upward spring tension to push the BB’s up into the guns chamber. Once the magazine is inserted into the gun, it is ready to fire. No other charging is required to chamber the first projectile. Magazine capacities vary from 25 to 500 rounds for most guns. The HK51 tested comes with a 60 round magazine. I used an optional 500 round magazine to do some volume shooting. I fired approximately 1500 BB’s through the HK51 before noticing the velocity starting to drop off due to battery drain. Extra magazines are available, as well as more powerful electric motors, which provide muzzle velocities of 400+ fps. High performance upgrades would include electric motors, firing springs, gearing, and compression chamber components.

A “silencer” is also available which attaches to the barrel. It does not make the gun any quieter, but it does contain an internal photocell that “flash-charges” glow-in-the-dark BB’s. As the gun is fired, and the BB travels through the unit, the photocell “ignites” the projectile, simulating tracer fire. Firing full auto, the projectiles glow like a green stream of water as you see them travel downrange. Red tracer BB’s are in the development phase and should be available in the near future. The silencer unit uses four AAA batteries, and it does not reduce muzzle velocities.

Performance Testing:

Rate of fire is 600-700 rounds/minute on full automatic mode. Based on my tests, I would say the typical “effective” range would be around 50 yards. Maximum range is approximately 100 yards, due to what’s called the “Hop Up” feature. The Hop Up system places a slight backspin on the projectile providing an uplifting force as it travels outward and away from the gun. The amount of spin is adjustable by the shooter via a rotation lever on the side of the gun. Rotating the lever increases or decreases the upward spin force on the projectile. The event is accomplished by a small interference detent, which projects down from the top of the barrel bore just in front of the chamber. The BB hits the detent as it is fired, hence providing backspin. This feature can add about 15% more distance to the maximum range than for that of a normally fired BB. I chronographed several models, and the average recorded muzzle velocity was around 230 fps with 100% Hop Up selected. Without Hop Up selected, muzzle velocities increased to about 330 fps.

While shooting offhand at some coke bottles 20 yards away, I quickly got the swing of things. Firing 10 and 20 round bursts, the BB’s were pinging off the bottles and ricocheting in all directions. My favorite test unit was the HK51 look-alike. I also fired the M16, HK MP5, Aug, and HK PDW models. Reliability was 100 percent with all of the guns tested. No “misfires” were encountered. I fired these guns along side an integrally suppressed Ruger MkII pistol to compare the sound signatures. From a subjective standpoint, the airgun was probably half as quiet as the suppressed .22LR pistol. We were shooting Winchester high-velocity .22LR ammo through the pistol, and our chronograph recorded readings of 980fps. The air guns typically averaged around 300-330fps.

The low noise of the airgun allows one to shoot in places which are not possible with a real gun. Many a backyard, basement, or even a living room could be set up as a “firing range” with these air guns. Main benefits include no smoke, no brass to pick up, and virtually no noise. Eye protection is highly recommended, due to the high volume of ammo that usually exits the barrel and the ricocheting that normally occurs. Firing point blank range into an aluminum can, we were able to easily penetrate the exterior shell. From 10 feet away, the BB’s punched through two sheets of cardboard and kept on going. I would not want to get shot with one of these guns unless I was wearing adequate protection.

Dreaming and Reality…

While shooting these guns, I realized that we might have found the closest thing to Small Arms Review editor Dan Shea’s “dream gun” as is technically possible. Dan’s dream of a .22LR Minigun with a backpack mounted, hopper-fed ammunition chute providing an unlimited ammunition supply is not a reality yet, but I think something pretty close could be constructed with one of these airguns. Unfortunately, Deepak tells me the Minigun model is no longer made, but that a few might be found on the used market. With a little creative engineering, I believe the Minigun or M60 could be modified to run off a backpack-mounted battery or a retractable extension chord on household current. This would supply the necessary power requirements for extended shooting sessions. A backpack hopper feed tray could be used for the ammo feeding. This concept would provide the shooter a virtually unlimited supply of ammunition, as long as someone could help load the hopper as it is exhausted. Yes Dan, you could have your ammo bearers following behind you, dumping thousands of rounds into the gun as you travel downrange blasting away.

The standard magazine for the M60 holds 1000 rounds and is gravity fed, so as long as long as you have gravity feed for the ammo supply, the above concept is possible. I had hoped to test out a Minigun during my evaluations, but with its discontinuance, it was not possible. The M60 version may be the best chance to test out this idea on. The weight of the M60 is about 10 pounds, and the Minigun was reported to weigh in at 20 pounds. Also, there is no need to have anybody adapt a silencer system, as these guns are quiet enough as is. Any of these guns would be unique items indeed to add to a firearm collection.

For my own personal uses, I have found a unique application for one of these units. They provide non-lethal nuisance animals control around my property. I live on 5 acres of suburban bliss, and up until a few years ago, was fairly isolated from humanity. With the influx of more people and houses nearby, there has been a dramatic increase in nuisance animals invading my property. Although there are leash laws in the county, there are many free-roaming dogs and cats that frequent my yard and livestock areas. This really drives my dogs crazy, since I keep them confined behind chain-link fencing. The BB’s have just enough velocity and impact to get the invaders attention, and also gives them something to remember when and if they decide to come around looking for trouble. The full auto air gun is an excellent tool to persuade them that they do not want to come around my place.

To conclude, these air guns are remarkable high quality replicas. They give one a realistic experience of firing an actual machine gun, providing a unique alternative to owning the real thing. The best thing they have going is that no FFL, transfer tax, or federal paperwork is required. They are top quality reproductions, and should provide years of reliable service. Deepak estimates he has about 50,000 rounds through his HK51 with no maintenance except periodic lubrication of the feeding chamber. Each motor is lifetime rated for at least 50,000 rounds before replacement would be necessary. Every model is provided with a manual outlining maintenance and disassembly instructions. If you can’t afford your Class III “dream gun” right now, a functioning airgun replica may satisfy the soul in the interim. It’s an interesting hobby to say the least.

Sources:

Marui Co., Ltd.
Tokyo, Japan

747 Imports
2615 George Busbee Pkwy
Suite 17, Dept SAR
Kennesaw, Georgia
1-888-304-3282
www.747imports.com

The P90 was developed as a personal weapon for support troops whose main function was not being a rifleman. US military veterans will remember the M3 “Greasegun” as a “Tanker’s gun”, that was found to be very useful to other troops. Many different elite groups used the “Greasegun” on a regular basis- it was accurate, easy to use, and very compact. In the same way, the P90 has crossed over from a sidearm for support troops to carry, into a tool of the tactical team and special operations personnel. The ballistics of the 5.7 x 28mm cartridge, combined with the high capacity of the magazine (50 rounds!), and the very comfortable compact design, have made the P90 a very attractive package. Not only is it compact, but the P90 is truly ambidextrous in its features. Ejection is straight down, and all operational devices are available to either the left or right hand.

Construction is of polymer materials except the operating parts (receiver, bolt, barrel), and they contribute to the light weight of the P90. Options include a built in laser target designator, and an accessory rail to allow flashlights or external lasers. Perhaps the most intriguing feature of the P90 lies not in the futuristic shape, nor in the new cartridge, but in the magazine itself. The P90 magazine is a somewhat standard double column stack magazine, but at the feed end, it has a channel that turns the cartridges ninety degrees for presentation in the line of the chamber. This allows the see-through magazine to lay flat along the top of the P90, contributing to the compactness of the design.

On firing the P90, it is the recoil itself that is so interesting, or rather the absence of anything significant. It is very similar to firing a .22 Long Rifle SMG. Recoil impulse comparisons with two other cartridges that many of the readers of SAR will be able to identify with firing should provide a common frame of reference so that you can understand what I mean by “Virtually no recoil”.

RECOIL IMPULSE COMPARISON

Live fire demos by FN personnel using tracer illustrate how controllable this system really is.

SAR noticed the P90 being carried by the special teams that effected the rescue of the hostages in the Japanese Embassy situation in Peru last year. Rumor from some personnel known to us has it that the P90 was extremely effective. This is the only combat/ operational use that we are aware of to date. Official word has not been put out on this.

5.7 x 28 mm AMMUNITION:

The key to FN’s newest offerings lies in the new ammunition. 5.7 x 28 mm is just as interesting and deserving of closer scrutiny as are the FiveseveN pistol and P90 submachine gun that utilize it. The roots of the new cartridge go back to the NATO request for a new cartridge to replace 9 x 19mm (Parabellum), to the 5.56mm and 6mm programs, the Small Caliber High Velocity (SCHV) program, and the backyard cartridge “Wildcatters” who have been experimenting for the last fifty or so years. The collected knowledge from all of the above, filtered through FN’s engineering department with their own new ideas, has yielded some impressive results.

The desire to have a new more effective weapon for support troops in the NATO block spawned several interesting cartridges. Most of the contenders utilized the research done in the 5.56mm (M16) development, looking for lower weight projectiles that could be driven to higher velocities and have more impressive terminal ballistics. The French corporation Giat had a 5.7 x 22 mm cartridge that was short lived, and FN produced the 5.7 x 28 mm utilized in these new designs.

5.7 x 28 mm projectiles, when fired from either the FiveseveN pistol or the P90 submachine gun, have very flat trajectories out to around 150 meters. If sighted in at 100 meters, the difference between trajectories at 10 meters and 100 meters is about 4 inches. They are still very accurate and effective out to 200 meters, easily maintaining an 8 inch group at that distance. Some very positive aspects of the cartridge are that it maintains its energy past 200 meters (Still equivalent to a 9mm round), will generally deliver all of its energy to a target, and starts rapidly losing energy after 400 meters. Contrast this with the 9mm Parabellum round that will easily kill or injure at over 800 meters, or the 5.56 mm NATO round that has deadly terminal ballistics out to a much further range.

The 31 grain projectile is somewhat controversial in effect, as are most new innovations that threaten the status quo. Gelatin block tests have proven the effectiveness of the cartridge’s terminal ballistics in theory, but to this point in time it is unproven on the battlefield. The armor piercing qualities of 5.7 x 28 mm are proven as well. Don’t expect to see this cartridge sold over the counter in the United States, in this incarnation it is strictly a law enforcement or military round. Several things that we do know about from testing make for a very positive future for it; first, the diameter of the case is about half that of the 9mm parabellum, allowing 50 rounds of ammunition in the same length magazine that would only allow 30 rounds of 9mm. Second, the weight of the 5.7 x 28 mm round is about half of either the 9mm or the 5.56 NATO round, allowing the operator to effectively carry almost twice the ammunition load.

Positive aspects of the recoil impulse of the new round are covered in the general text of this article, so the third truly remarkable feature of 5.7 x 28 mm is the behavior of the bullet in gelatin tests. All indications are that the new round will not deform or fragment- meeting standards from the Geneva Convention- but at about 2 inches of penetration it begins to tumble to 180 degrees. This produces a wound cavity that is similar to that of the 5.56 mm NATO ammunition used in the M16 series of rifles. The 5.7 x 28mm’s battlefield ability to penetrate modern ballistic armor and PASGT helmets is unquestioned. The effectiveness of the residual energy in the projectile after doing so has yet to be proven. Since 15 countries are now actively utilizing the new weapon systems, it should not be too long before the After Action reports come in.

TECHNICAL DATA 5.7 x 28 mm
Designation: SS190
Ammunition length: 1.6 inch
Ammunition weight: 93 grains
Projectile weight: 31 grains
Recoil impulse: 0.44 lb/s
Muzzle velocity: 2346 fps
Chamber pressure: 49,070 lb/in2
Types available: Ball (Copper jacket), Tracer (Red tip), Subsonic (White tip), Blank (Crimped green neck), Dummy (drilled case)

Sale or discounts, those are terms you will seldom, or more accurately, never, see associated with machine guns. Machine guns and most class III items are usually sold-cash up front, and at the advertised price. There are no specials and no discounts. If you aren’t interested, step aside and make room for someone else who is. If you do see any class III items at a low price advertised, you better be the first to call and have a certified check for the full amount ready to send the next day. In all but a very few cases it is a seller’s market. The demand is high. The supply is extremely limited and growing smaller each year.

In years long since past, police departments were a place that machine gun bargains could be found. Old “obsolete” Thompsons, Reisings, Grease Guns and others were traded in by the police for more modern, up-to-date, Colt AR15s, H&Ks and other similar firearms. Alas, today most police departments are well aware of the collector value of their old inventories. “Obsolete” police guns are not usually sold on a sealed bid basis.

Today, the once prolific and inexpensive Thompsons and MP40s are priced out of reach for many potential buyers. Many of these guns are now residing in someone’s collection, and will not be offered for sale until their owner’s heirs inherit them. With demand increasing and the fixed supply dwindling, the situation is only getting worse for those looking to purchase a legal, registered machine gun.

The subject of this article, bargain machine guns, takes a look at and compares some of the less expensive guns that are available. The guns reviewed are on the lower end of today’s fully transferable machine gun price scale. The purpose of this article is to provide some pros and cons of each gun so that you can make an informed decision on what best would suit your interest or needs.

Actually, there are no cheap machine guns. Those reviewed are inexpensive compared to many others that are available. The guns reviewed are still able to be located fairly easily from dealers or individuals. When shopping for a machine gun there are some things you need to be aware of. Most advertised prices do not include the required $200.00 transfer tax. Unless you are a class III dealer, you cannot purchase dealer samples or post 1986 dealer samples. These are the guns you will see advertised at less expensive prices. Individuals cannot purchase these guns. Two words make a machine gun expensive; FULLY TRANSFERABLE. These words mean, quite simply, that you do not have to be a dealer or Class II manufacturer to purchase or possess it (subject to state and local laws).

The guns reviewed in this article are the British Mark II Sten gun, the H&R Model 50 Reising, the U.S. M2 carbine and the M-11. These guns represent today’s machine gun bargains.

The British Sten MKII

The first gun reviewed is the British Sten series. The Sten is a very popular model simply because there were so many produced by class II manufacturers and individuals in the good old days prior to May 1986. In those days, an individual could file a form 1 to make a firearm, and after the approved form came back, obtain a Sten parts kit and a blank receiver tube. They could then manufacture their own machine gun for about $200.00 plus the transfer tax. Many more were built and registered by class II manufacturers as well.

Only the so-called “tube” receiver Stens qualify for bargain machine gun status. A Sten with an original receiver tube can cost up to twice as much as a new manufacture Sten. One can identify whether a Sten is an original gun or a tube gun by looking at the BATF form that it is registered on. In the manufacturer block on the form the name would be of an original manufacturer or it may say unknown. This is most likely an original gun. If it has a class II manufacturer or an individual’s name in the block then it is most likely a tube gun. Some class IIs that made Sten receivers and/or complete guns are; Ciener, CATCO, Interport, Erb, DLO, Wilson, Taylor, Stemple, York Arms and Norrell. These class II manufacturers produced most of the Stens with new receivers.

Any individual or manufacturer who made a new Sten receiver was also required to stamp or engrave their name on the receiver tube. Original Stens are on the Curio and Relics list, and can be transferred into C&R only states. They may go directly to holders of a Curio and Relics license. New receiver Stens are not considered Curio or Relic guns.

There are several models or “Marks” of Stens. The most prolific model is the Mark II. You also may encounter a Mark III or a Mark V Sten. Models other than the common MKII will most likely be priced higher.

The Sten is a 9mm, select-fire submachine gun. The Sten may appear crude, but it is in reality, reliable and rugged. The gun is the usual subgun with an open-bolt and blow-back operated. The Sten’s cyclic rate on full-auto is approximately 600 RPM. Barrel length is 9 inches. Overall length is 30 inches . Unloaded weight is 7.2lbs. The Sten receiver is a simple sheet metal tube. Most of the parts are stamped mild steel. Sten parts are inexpensive and easily obtained from a number of sources.

Original Stens were first manufactured during WWII by the British. During and after the war the Sten was copied and manufactured by several nations. Over 4 million Stens of all models were manufactured by Great Britain alone.

There are many accessories available for the Sten. Magazine pouches, brass catchers, books and manuals are common. Complete spare parts sets (less receiver) are now available at very reasonable prices.

Sten magazines are among the least expensive on the market. Magazines are available in 20, 32 and 50 round capacities. The 50-round mags were originally made for the British Lanchester submachine gun, but will also fit and function in a Sten.

There are several different stocks available for the Sten. The loop, the “T” and the pistol grip are the most common. In my opinion the loop stock is the most ergonomic.

One problem you may encounter with a Sten is that it will not shoot where the sights are set. The sights usually are welded into place and are not easily adjustable. The front sight is set in a dovetail and can be drifted right or left if the weld is cut. To fix the sight in place it most likely will need to be rewelded. The rear sight is best left as is.

Conclusion

The Stens offer a lot of value, and they make good shooters. They are reliable if they were built correctly. I have examined some pretty crude home-built ones. Ask questions before purchasing! The Sten looks like a machine gun and this alone makes it desirable to many folks. It also represents WWII history to others. Parts and magazines are inexpensive. They can be used to compete in the popular subgun matches in the classic categories. The 9mm cartridge is widely available, and is easily reloaded.

The H&R Model 50 Reising

The Reising submachine gun was designed by Eugene Reising during WWII as a possible replacement for the expensive-to-produce Thompson Submachine Gun. The Reising was manufactured exclusively by Harrington and Richardson (H&R) a prominent gun manufacturer who later was awarded government contracts to produce M1 Garands and M14 rifles.

The Reising was adopted by the U.S. Marines in 1941. The Reising’s military career was quite unsuccessful to say the least. The Reising’s disastrous debut in combat with the Marines at Guadalcanal is legendary. Today, over 50 years later, the Reising’s reputation is still tarnished. Its complicated, hand fitted, close tolerance design wasn’t reliable under harsh combat conditions. Parts would not interchange readily between guns. The Reisings that didn’t get destroyed by their Marine owners were relegated to rear echelon duty for the remainder of the war. After the war ended many surplus Reising found their way into police arsenals. The Reisings were very good at fulfilling a police role, where they received regular maintenance and were not subjected to part swapping and harsh field conditions.

Most Reisings available today have come to the class III market from police armories. Most progressive departments that have submachine guns in their inventories have up graded to more modern firearms like the 9mm, M16 or the 50-year-old MP5.

There are several models of the Reising. The Model 50 (the full-stock version) is the most common. The Model 55 Reising is a folding-stock, paratrooper model. The Model 55s are pricey due to their limited numbers. They do not fit into the bargain category.

There are two variations of the model 50. One is the commercial version. The other is the military model, the U.S. Model 50. Both style model 50s were used by the Marines. The military model is most likely a later model, developed to require less machining on the barrel, and for easier disassembly. Both model 50s feature a muzzle compensator. The Model 55 does not. There also exists a Reising Model 60. This is a semiautomatic only rifle. Its appearance is similar, except for a longer 16 inch barrel. The Model 60s are not NFA firearms.

The commercial Reisings are probably the most common. They are identified by a blued finish, have 29 tapered, radial cooling fins on the barrel, and a small trigger guard. They also have a small take-down screw that requires a screw driver to loosen. These Reisings are often offered in original wooden police hardcases. Once inexpensive, these cases now are collector’s items. Very late production Reisings often have smooth, unfinned barrels.

The military Reisings have a dark green parkerized finish. The barrels have 14 radial cooling fins, and the fins are not tapered. The stock has a large trigger guard, and a large take-down screw that is knurled for removal without tools. Note: The trigger guard and the take-down screw are mounted on the wooden stock. It would be possible to encounter a commercial gun with a military stock or vice versa.

The Reising is a .45 ACP, select-fire weapon that is very accurate in the semiauto mode of fire. Its semiauto accuracy is partially due to its closed bolt operation. Full-automatic fire is another story. The Reising is a very light firearm. Being of closed bolt design, it doesn’t require the abnormally heavy bolt of most submachine guns. At only 6.75 lbs., firing 700 rounds per minute of .45 ACP, makes the Reising somewhat difficult to control.

The Reising is fairly well constructed. The receiver is made of milled steel, not sheet metal. Many of the internal parts are steel stampings. The closed bolt locks by tilting up into a step milled into the receiver. The firing pin is spring loaded. The selector is mounted on the right side of the receiver. It slides into three positions; Safe, auto and semi-auto. If the gun is cocked and in the full-auto position, the cocking handle must be retracted about 1/4” to move the selector into the semiauto position. The cocking or charging handle is located underneath the barrel. There is an oval hole cut in the stock to allow access to it.

Conclusion

For all their faults as military weapons, the Reisings make a great recreational machine gun. They are not tube guns or conversions. They are on the ATF’s Curio and Relics list. This makes them attractive to C&R license holders or residents of “C&R only” states.

In a civilian environment the Reisings are reliable, although if they are not periodically maintained, unreliability may be encountered. The .45 ACP cartridge is very common and easily reloaded. Many shooters prefer the more powerful .45 caliber over the 9mm in a subgun. The Reising is one of the very few inexpensive .45 ACP submachine guns available.

Original magazines are rather expensive and only come in 12 or 20 round capacities. In the past this was a drawback to the owners of Reisings. Today however, relatively inexpensive aftermarket 30-round capacity magazines are offered. In my experience, these magazines are reliable. They fit and function the same as the original mags. Parts are not especially common, but they are available. You just have to look harder to find them.

The U.S. M2 Carbine

One point that needs to be made immediately is that “bargain” M2 Carbines will be semiautomatic M1 Carbines that have been converted in the M2 configuration by a class II manufacturer or an individual prior to May 1986. Original M2 Carbines, like original Stens, don’t fit into the bargain category. Original M2 Carbines are considered Curio & Relics. Converted M1 carbines are not.

There are also aftermarket carbines offered in the full-auto configuration. Some manufacturers of these might be; Plainfield, Iver Johnson, National Ordnance, Santa Fe, Alpine Industries, or Universal. These are not manufactured military guns. Although many parts may be military, the receivers are not.

Also available are registered carbine part kits. The BATF considers several combinations of M2 carbine parts by themselves to be a machine-guns, even though the parts alone are unable to fire a single shot. The advantage to these kits are that they can be moved to another carbine if needed or desired. The disadvantage is that the kits are often the same price as a complete registered receiver carbine. The parts kits usually only include the parts the BATF considers to be a machine-gun. There are actually a few more parts needed to make a carbine selectfire. (See SAR Vol 1 Nos 2&3 for an indepth analysis of M2 Carbines)

The carbine is not usually considered a submachine gun. The carbine falls somewhere in between a subgun and an assault rifle. Its cartridge is too powerful for subgun status and too weak for assault rifle classification. The carbine is normally not allowed to participate in most subgun matches because its cartridge is deemed too powerful for safety in such events.

The M1/M2 Carbine, like the Reising, suffers from a poor wartime reputation. In the carbine’s case it is usually disdained because of its lack of power. None the less the carbine had a considerable service life. M1 and M2 Carbines were issued in WWII, Korea, Vietnam and countless other lesser known conflicts. Like the Reising, many carbines ended up in police departments, or were given to other countries as foreign aid.

The M2 Carbine has on occasion been criticized as being unreliable. It has been my experience to find that there are several reasons that a carbine won’t function correctly. Worn or non-original parts, weak ammunition, and aftermarket 30-round magazines.

There are a few parts on a carbine that will cause ejection failures and related problems. In most cases replacement of these parts will cure any problems you may be having. These parts are: the ejector spring, the extractor and the extractor spring. These parts are all part of the bolt assembly.

The carbine is fun to shoot and reliable if original parts and magazines are used. The carbine is great for those who would like a little more horsepower than the usual pistol-caliber subgun offers. The carbine in full-auto (at about 750 RPM) is somewhat difficult to handle due to its light 5.5 pound weight. In the semiauto mode it is very accurate up to 200+ yards, something few subguns can match.

Due to the huge amount of carbines produced, and their long service life, spare parts, accessories and magazines are in abundance. Recently, many new parts including barrels, have become available at very reasonable prices.

Carbine ammunition is common in both surplus and newly manufactured forms. Reloading is fairly common. Brass and projectiles are offered by several manufacturers. Due to its high pressure and gas operation, cast lead bullets are not recommended for use in the carbine.

Carbide dies are offered by several companies. I have found it necessary to lube carbine cases, even when using carbide dies. It adds an extra step to the reloading process, but makes it less of a struggle. The ammunition produced is more reliable.

Conclusion

The carbine is a good choice for a shooter who would like a gun closer to the performance of an assault rifle, but at less cost. Magazines, parts and accessories are plentiful and inexpensive. Ammunition is slightly more expensive and less common than the 9mm or .45. Reloading is a little more difficult as well.

Of all the guns reviewed, the carbine looks the least like a machine gun. This fact alone turns off many buyers! The M2 carbine can be fitted with an inexpensive, after-market copy of the WWII M1A1 paratrooper stock for a more aggressive appearance. Original M1A1 stocks are not cut for the M2 configuration, while most aftermarket versions are.

The M-11/9mm

The M-11 is probably most famous for its compact size and extremely fast cyclic rate of 1200+ rounds per minute. While this fast cyclic rate looks awesome on TV and in the movies, its real world application is limited to wasting ammo. The M-11 has often been described as a bullet hose. Of all the bargain machine guns reviewed it is certainly the most sinister appearing. It sounds great for about 1.5 seconds, the time it takes to blow through a 32 round magazine.

The M-11 is a descendant of the famous MAC-10 submachine gun. It is smaller and lighter than a MAC 10. An M11/9mm weights 3.75 pounds empty, and has an over all length of 23inches with the wire stock extended, (13 inches with the stock retracted). Receiver construction is a heavy gauge sheet metal, formed and welded together. Barrel length is 5.25”. The parkerized finish is dark gray/ black. Normal magazine capacity is 32 rounds of 9mm ammunition.

The M-11 design, like the MAC-10 has been manufactured by several different companies, the original Military Armament Corporation MAC, (.380 caliber), RPB Industries and most recently by S.W.D. Inc.

There is also a rare .380 caliber MAC. These are priced much higher than a 9mm version, the reason being that the .380 cartridge’s velocity is inherently subsonic. This makes the .380 version attractive to those who desire a suppressed subgun.

A major drawback to the M-11 is its 32-round magazines. They are made of plastic, and the lips will wear out with extended use. The plastic magazine that was examined with the M-11 in this article had over 3000 rounds through it, and showed no sign of wear what-so-ever. I am in no way implying that they don’t wear out, I am trying to convey how long a plastic mag may last. For many folks 3000 rounds is only a few weeks shooting.

The M-11/9mm is the only bargain machine gun in this article that wasn’t a common issue military firearm. Brand new-in-the-box, M-11s are still available from many class III dealers.

There is some good news; The M-11/9mm probably can be purchased cheaper than any other firearm in this review. Many people are attracted by its definite submachine gun appearance.

The magazine problem can be solved by the addition of a kit available to convert the M11/9mm to use inexpensive Sten magazines. The cost of the conversion is easily off- set by the price and utility of the inexpensive Sten magazines.

The M-11/9mm can also be altered to be very competitive in subgun contests. For a more in-depth story see Captain Monty’s informative article “Task Slow Fire M11” in Small Arms Review, Volume 1 Number 1, and “Vanguard M-11” Volume 1 Number 11.

Conclusion

The M11/9mm in its original configuration has few attributes, although many people like its look and the fast cyclic rate. On the plus side, it can be altered, and there are parts available to do so inexpensively. It has been proven to be a viable competitor when properly configured. An M-11 can still be purchased brand new in-the-box. That is one thing the other arms in this review cannot boast of, except perhaps for an after-market M1/M2 carbine.

The M11 fires the very common 9mm cartridge. The 9mm parabellum cartridges are available as surplus, new manufacture and are easily reloaded. You will need a lot of them.

So concludes this overview of bargain machine guns. Machine guns though they may appear expensive, are in reality a very good investment. The prices are sure to continue to spiral upward, as they have done consistently over the past ten years. The quantities of transferable guns are shrinking. Prices are rising almost daily, as interest grows in machine guns and other Class III items . There is no better time to buy than now.

The P90 Personal Defense Weapon was originally designed by Fabrique National Herstal SA of Belgium as a personal defense weapon for troops whose primary mission is something other than the use of small arms. Thus, the P90 is intended for people such as vehicle drivers, operators of crew-served weapons, support personnel, and other troops who are often issued side-arms or submachine guns. The goal was a select-fire weapon of ultra-compact design that would provide superior hit probability to the aforementioned weapons out to greater distances thanks to the new compact 5.7x28mm round. These characteristics, combined with the availability of SB193 subsonic, L191 tracer, and SS190 supersonic ammunition for the P90, provides a very interesting package for Special Operations as well as for law-enforcement, counter-terrorist, security, and executive-protection applications.

Many of these additional missions would depend upon—or be enhanced by—the availability of a compact sound suppressor. That suppressor would have to be capable of sustaining substantial full-auto fire with standard duty ammunition (an impossible dream until very recently), while providing enough suppression with subsonic rounds to hide the fact that a shot has been fired when the tactical situation demanded stealth. FN Herstal SA asked Gemtech to develop a military quality suppressor for the P90 that would be compact, tolerate full-auto fire, and incorporate a snap-on quick mount which would retain the FN muzzle brake or at least incorporate that design into a replacement fixture.

Gemtech’s design team of Dr. Phil Dater, Greg Latka, and Jim Ryan devoted a great deal of time and energy into the project over the course of a year. Their impressive M4-96D suppressor for the M4A1 carbine—which Gemtech initially developed for the Naval Surface Warfare Center—was already in production, and this became the inspiration for the new SP90 suppressor. The process of adapting the M4-96D technology was more complex than one might guess. Some qualities of the new system made the design process easier, while others would provide challenges.

A plus for the designers was that the Five-seven (5.7x28mm) cartridge produces a substantially smaller volume of combustion gases than the 5.56x45mm round. Less gas means that the suppressor has less work to do, so the Gemtech team was able to make the SP90 shorter, smaller in diameter, and substantially lighter than previous designs.

Most of Gemtech’s design effort focused on engineering a revolutionary baffle stack that would not increase the P90’s cyclic rate beyond acceptable limits. This challenge, which one would expect from any compact blowback weapon, appears because a suppressor increases back pressure, which increases the cyclic rate of the weapon. At least theoretically, a suppressor could increase the back pressure of any compact blowback weapon to the point that the magazine spring does not have enough time to present the next round for the bolt as it cycles forward. Thus a design goal for any compact weapon is to tune the design of a suppressor so that bolt speed (i.e., cyclic rate) of the suppressed weapon falls within the optimum range for both the weapon itself and its magazine. Thus the contradictory challenges are to minimize back pressure for optimum reliability while creating maximum turbulence inside the suppressor to optimize the amount of sound reduction. In order to meet these challenges, Gemtech developed a baffle stack in which no two baffles are the same design.

Another design challenge was to develop a robust and fool-proof quick mount for the SP90 suppressor. Since it proved impractical to design a suppressor mount that would directly latch onto the outstanding FN muzzle brake, the Gemtech team decided to marry their Bi-Lock snap-on quick mount with the FN muzzle brake.

SP90 Design

Gemtech’s remarkable spring-loaded Bi-Lock mounting system provides excellent alignment with the P90 barrel and a robust means of attaching the SP90 suppressor that never loosens during firing (unlike screw-on suppressors using a single-point mounting system, which tend to loosen when subjected to semiautomatic or full-auto firing, unless permanently attached with ROCKSETT sealant or silver solder).

The name of this patented Bi-Lock mounting system comes from the two alignment lugs on the muzzle brake, which engage a spring-loaded collet in the back of the suppressor. The moving parts are sealed to minimize fouling from carbon and powder residue. To install the Gemtech SP90 suppressor on a barrel fitted with a Bi-Lock muzzle brake, simply align the suppressor with the brake, push down and rotate the can 90 degrees clockwise (as seen from the front) until the device can no longer be rotated, and allow the spring pressure to lock the suppressor firmly against the Bi-Lock’s twin lugs. Each lug has a different size, so there is only one way to install the suppressor. This feature minimizes the shift in the point of impact whenever the suppressor is mounted and keeps the shift repeatable (i.e., predictable).

Since stops in the mount prevent rotating the suppressor past the locking recesses in the interface piston that mate with the compensator lugs, the mounting procedure is both positive and very fast. Furthermore, the amount of pressure generated by the internal spring during mounting is considerably less than some quick mounts I’ve used on other weapons, making the installation process easier and faster, without sacrificing security.

When removing the suppressor soon after firing, be aware that the silencer could be dangerously hot. Use a heavy glove, hat or other protection to avoid burns. To dismount the Gemtech SP90, push it backward about 0.1 inch (3 mm) until the suppressor can be rotated counterclockwise (as seen from the front). Rotate the can 90 degrees and pull the suppressor clear of the flash hider. The Bi-Lock mount permits installing or removing a sound suppressor in just 1.5-3 seconds. It is safe to say that the Bi-Lock mount is an impressive engineering achievement.

The Gemtech SP90 suppressor is constructed from 304 stainless steel tubing, 303 stainless steel barstock, hardened 440C stainless steel for the interface piston, and Inconel for the blast baffle at the rear of the baffle stack. Inconel is particularly resistant to the heat and erosive effects of hot combustion gases, especially when the suppressor is subjected to full-auto fire. The Bi-Lock compensator is machined from 4140 steel which is then hardened. The SP90 is 7.25 inches (18.4 cm) long and 1.37 inches (3.5 cm) in diameter, and the suppressor weighs 19.4 ounces (550 grams). All suppressor components are coated in a matte black oxide, and the interface piston receives an additional coating of Sandstrom Products 9A Dry Film Lubricant to enhance corrosion resistance.

From a subjective point of view, the relatively modest length and weight of the SP90 gives the suppressor excellent handling characteristics when mounted on the FN P90. Whether engaging targets at arm’s length or at 100 yards (91 meters), target acquisition was very rapid and hit probability was outstanding. The sound signatures produced by the suppressed P90 were quite impressive. When using the supersonic SS190 ammunition, the surprisingly mild cough of the suppressor was followed by bullet flight noise, which was a muted and rather eerie ripping sound that ended with the distinctive thud of bullet impact. When using subsonic SB193 subsonic ammunition, the muzzle signature seemed dramatically quieter than an H&K MP5 SD, bullet flight noise was a barely perceptible hiss, and the noise of bullet impact was easily the dominant sound. While this is a very interesting design that produces a satisfying sound signature when fired with either supersonic or subsonic fodder, there is no substitute for rigorously evaluating the performance of a suppressor with repeatable and standardized scientific methodology. To this end, I tested the performance of the Gemtech SP90 suppressor using the following procedures.

Performance

Suppressor performance was determined by measuring sound signatures using the equipment and procedures specified at the end of Chapter 5 in the book Silencer History and Performance ($55 postpaid, Wideworld, Dept. SAR, P.O. Box 1827, Conway, AR 72033). The microphone was placed 1.00 meter to the left of the suppressor or muzzle according to U.S. Army testing procedures specified in MIL-STD-1474C. The ambient temperature during the testing was 73°F (23°C), and the speed of sound was 1,132 fps (345 mps). Velocities were measured in feet per second using a P.A.C.T. MKIV timer/chronograph with MKV skyscreens set 24.0 inches apart and the start screen 8.0 feet from the muzzle (P.A.C.T., Dept. SAR, P.O. Box 531525, Grand Prairie, TX 75053, 214-641-0049). At least 10 rounds were fired to obtain an average sound signature or muzzle velocity.

Two kinds of 5.7x28mm ammunition were used for the study. The supersonic SS190 round has steel core in front of an aluminum core toward the base, a projectile weight of 31.0 grains (2.02 grams), and a nominal published velocity of 2,345 fps (715 mps). The subsonic SB193 round is a lead core boat tail with a length of 0.753 inches (19.1 mm) and a projectile weight of 55.0 grains (3.58 grams) in front of 2.0 grains (0.13 gram) of ball powder. The SB193 round is still under development at the time of this writing, and an improved variant of the subsonic round is scheduled for field trials in the spring of 1998. Therefore, any data reported here on the subsonic round must be regarded as provisional.

The sound signatures, which are more properly called sound pressure levels (SPLs), appear in Table 1 along with some comparative data for reference. Since the FN P90 might compete against both 5.56x45mm and 9x19mm weapons for law-enforcement applications, data on both categories of weapons are included. Unsuppressed and suppressed versions of the M4A1 were tested at 50°F (10°C). The MP5 and MP5 SD were tested at 71°F (22°C). Unsuppressed and integrally suppressed .22 rimfire rifles were tested at 83°F (28°C) to provide a baseline for sound signatures significantly less than normally encountered in the tactical environment. The net sound reductions appear in Table 2. Figures 1-3 compare aspects of the external ballistics (velocity, trajectory and bullet drop) produced by the SS190 FMJ round fired from a P90, a Winchester USA 9x19mm FMJ round with a 115 grain (7.48 gram) FMJ projectile fired from an H&K MP5 submachine gun, and an M855 5.56x45mm round with 62 grain (4.03 gram) projectile fired from an M4A1 carbine. The P90 produces a projectile velocity than falls in between the M4A1 and MP5, and provides performance reminiscent of (but a bit less than) the venerable old .22 Hornet, which was used in several survival weapons once issued to the U.S. Air Force. Thanks to the fairly brisk muzzle velocity and the P90’s high sights, Figure 2 shows that the P90’s trajectory is remarkably similar to the M4A1 out to the P90’s effective range of 150 meters (137 yards). Clearly, an operator of average skill will obtain much better hit probability or shot placement with the P90 than with the MP5 simply because of the flatter trajectory provided by the SS190 round.

Mounting a suppressor on the P90 does have an effect on projectile velocity. The SS190 round produced a muzzle velocity of 2,339 fps (713 mps) when fired without the suppressor mounted on the P90 and 2,262 fps (689 mps) when suppressed. The SB193 subsonic round produced a muzzle velocity of 998 fps (304 mps) without a suppressor and 951 fps (290 fps) when the suppressor is mounted. Velocities decrease slightly when the suppressor is fitted to the weapon since the increased back pressure causes the blowback bolt to begin extraction sooner after ignition than the unsuppressed weapon. As Figure 4 shows when comparing bullet trajectories of suppressed versus unsuppressed P90s, this slightly reduced velocity when the suppressor is mounted has almost no effect on practical external ballistics when using the standard SS190 supersonic round, and should have even less effect with the subsonic round since there is significantly less velocity change in suppressed versus unsuppressed mode. A discussion of terminal ballistics is beyond the scope of this study. From an operator’s point of view, however, there are a number of conclusions to be drawn about the P90 Personal Defense Weapon and the Gemtech P90 suppressor designed for the weapon.

Conclusions

The P90 is compact, handy in close quarters, and yet provides rapid target acquisition and outstanding hit probability out to 150 meters. When fitted with the Gemtech P90 suppressor and using supersonic ammunition, the weapon is significantly quieter than a suppressed M4A1 carbine. This has direct implications regarding command and control in confined spaces, as well as both short-term and long-term hearing loss experienced by personnel operating in limited spaces. When using subsonic ammunition, the suppressed P90 is dramatically quieter than an H&K MP5 SD and is even quieter than some integrally suppressed .22 rimfire rifles, making a very stealthy weapon. The Gemtech suppressor will tolerate an unprecedented amount of full-auto fire for an intermediate cartridge, mounts or dismounts in the time required for a magazine change, and will not loosen during prolonged firing.

Assuming the terminal ballistics are suitable, the FN P90 with Gemtech suppressor seems even better suited for law-enforcement applications than for its originally intended role as a military personal defense weapon. Whether used as an entry weapon or a replacement for shotguns, submachine guns and carbines of pistol caliber in the squad car—the P90 seems to hold a great deal of potential for law-enforcement applications, especially when equipped with the outstanding Gemtech P90 suppressor. Fabrique National Herstal SA of Belgium is now entering the law-enforcement market.

The Gemtech SP90 suppressor removes more of the high-frequency noise than the typical suppressor designed for intermediate rifle cartridges, so the lower pitch sound signature of the Gemtech suppressor actually seems quieter to people with a normal range of hearing than the numbers in Table 1 would otherwise suggest.

The Gemtech SP90 suppressor provides excellent sound reduction, no adverse effects on reliability or accuracy, a relatively light and compact package, and superior durability when subjected to full-auto fire compared to previous generations of suppressors. The Gemtech SP90 suppressor represents an impressive state of the art, and I can recommend it enthusiastically. Qualified buyers interested in the SP90 sound suppressor should write FN Manufacturing Inc., P.O. Box 24257, Columbia, SC 29224, call FN at 803-736-0552 ext 241 or 290, or fax 803-736-9949. SAR

At America’s birth, the republic faced a world of hostile monarchies. It was obvious a plan was needed to ensure the security of the 13 states. Thus, on April 2, 1794, Congress passed, “An Act to Provide for the Erecting and Repairing of Arsenals and Magazines.” This legislation set Springfield Armory on a 174 year career as the main supplier of arms to the U.S. military.

The site at Springfield, Massachusetts, was chosen due to its strategic position above the Enfield Falls of the Connecticut River. The location made it less vulnerable to attack by potential enemies. And during the Revolutionary War, this important location had served as the primary arsenal for munitions and supplies.

Inventions such as the Blanchard Lathe (developed in 1822) that allowed for mass production of gun stocks, the concept of interchangeable parts, and rudimentary assembly lines, all trace their origins to Springfield Armory. The Armory was the first major employer in Springfield and the advances initiated in the complex started the city on the path that made it a manufacturing center.

The Armory’s extraordinary response to the demands of World War Two marked its crowning achievement. The then new semi-automatic M1 rifle was produced with a production process allowing inexperienced workers to handle many operations. Wartime production necessitated the recruitment of thousands of women who made up about 43% of the Armory’s workforce of 13,500 employees in 1943.

After the war, the Armory, which had always focused on production, had difficulty adjusting to an uncertain postwar mission stressing research and development. The Armory also fared poorly in the complex bureaucratic infighting within the defense establishment. Finally, in a cost-cutting move, it was decided to place greater emphasis on purchasing from private contractors for the government’s arms needs. So, in 1964, then Secretary of Defense Robert S. McNamara announced the closing of the institution, which was completed in 1968.

While the Armory no longer manufactures firearms, it maintains one of the most extensive small arms museums in the country containing approximately 6,800 firearms. During and after the Civil War, large numbers of captured and surplus weapons were sent to the Armory to be reconditioned. Samples of these arms, particularly those of historical interest, were put aside and these formed the nucleus of the Armory museum collection. Established in 1872, the museum’s concept is as a “reference library” of arms.

The Flintlock Musket

By following the history of the guns produced at the Armory, one can trace the history of small arms development over the last two hundred years. The first model produced at the Armory, the U.S. Flintlock Musket Model 1795, was a French designed arm imported to America in large quantities during the Revolutionary War. With its three iron barrel bands, it was considered a rugged piece. It weighed about 9-pounds and was approximately 60-inches long. Firing a .69 caliber lead ball from its smooth bore barrel, the maximum effective range was about 100 yards. A 14- to 15-inch steel bayonet was fitted for close combat use.

The Percussion Musket

The advent of the percussion ignition system concept in 1807 and the invention of the percussion cap in 1814, prodded Springfield Armory into producing arms utilizing the more modern ignition to replace the flintlocks that had been in use for centuries. Conservative military leaders, however, waited until the latter part of 1841 to authorize such production.

The first produced, the Model 1842 Musket, was really the Model 1840 flintlock with a percussion lock installed in place of the flintlock frizzen and pan. Production began in 1844 and about 172,000 were made. It was also Springfield’s first model using completely interchangeable parts.

While the practice of rifling barrels to achieve greater accuracy and range of projectiles was in use in Europe as early as the late 15th Century, such arms did not come into general employ in combat operations until much later as military tactics of the day called for the placement of a heavy and quick field of fire while troops advanced. Accuracy was not so important as was ease of loading; forcing a tight-fitting lead ball against rifling grooves greatly slowed the reloading process.

The Rifle-Musket

All of this was changed in 1855 when Springfield Armory began production of the Model 1855 Rifle-Musket incorporating newly developed technologies. The first was the French invented Minie Bullet, composed of a projectile with a hollow conical base that, while smaller in diameter than the bore to allow rapid loading, expanded upon firing to contact the rifling.

The other technology was the utilization of the Maynard tape lock, consisting of a roll of waxed paper with spaced dots of fulminate of mercury (with a similar appearance to roll caps used in children’s cap guns). Each time the hammer was cocked, the lock mechanism would advance the tape a notch over the nipple, thus eliminating the need for the soldier to position a percussion cap each time the gun was fired. Chambered for .58 caliber 500-grain bullets, good accuracy could be achieved at distances up to 600 yards. By 1861, with the Civil War raging, the Armory produced the Model 1861 Rifle-Musket – basically a Model 1855 without the Maynard lock, as it had proved somewhat unreliable.

The Trapdoor & Krag Rifles

In the closing months of the Civil War, and for several years thereafter, the Armory produced a number of experimental breech-loading arms in limited quantities. But in 1873, the Trapdoor .45 caliber rifle, which carried its three-piece cleaning rod in a compartment within the buttstock, proved the most successful.

Becoming standard issue for U.S. troops, the Trapdoor rifle played a major role in the Spanish-American War and the Philippine Insurrection. With the introduction of bolt action magazine fed rifles and the invention of smokeless propellants in the closing years of the 19th Century, the single shot Trapdoor rifle was retired.

In 1892, the Norwegian designed bolt action Krag-Jorgensen .30 caliber 5-shot rifle was adopted by the U.S. and Springfield Armory tooled up to produce them. Over 475,000 Krags were produced from 1894 to 1903.

The 1903 Springfield

In 1900, Springfield Armory completed a prototype of an improved bolt action magazine-fed rifle firing a new cannelured .30 caliber cartridge with a blunt nose bullet. After going through some design modifications, the final form was designated “U.S. Magazine Rifle, Caliber .30, Model of 1903,” or the more popular ’03 Springfield. In 1906, a new .30 caliber load was developed with a sharp pointed boat tail bullet that became the famed .30-06 Springfield cartridge.

By the time America entered World War One, Springfield Armory had produced over 800,000 ’03 Springfield rifles, and kept the rifle’s production lines humming for years in a number of different variations. Over one million were produced

The M1 Garand

The ‘03’s replacement, the M1 Garand rifle, was described by General George S. Patton, Jr. as, “the greatest battle implement ever devised.” A semi-automatically loading, gas-operated 8-shot arm, it was invented by John C. Garand, a career employee at the Armory. Beginning production in 1937, over 3 1/2 million were produced by the time the Second World War ended in 1945, and a million more were made in the post-war years. The U.S. Army’s adoption of the M14, 7.62mm, selective-fire rifle in 1957, effectively ended the Armory’s production of the M1.

The M14

The M14, basically a modified M1 designed to handle the higher powered 7.62mm and to deliver full-auto firing capability, was the last major arms design Springfield Armory produced until it closed in 1968. In a fitting tribute, more than two decades after the Armory closed, the M21 sniper rifles (basically a National Match conditioned M14), were used by Special Operations snipers in 1991 during Operation Desert Storm in the Persian Gulf.

Getting There

Springfield Armory National Historic Site, administered by the National Park Service, is located in the city of Springfield, Massachusetts, and close to both Interstate 91 and the Massachusetts Turnpike. It is open 10 AM to 4:30 PM Wednesdays through Sundays and is closed on January 1, Thanksgiving Day and December 25. Admission is free. For more information, call: (413) 734-8551.

Among the upcoming exhibitions SAR readers will be particularly interested in is the upcoming “Evolution of the Machine Gun.” Planned for 1999, the exhibit will trace the origins of full-auto weapons from the design concepts contained in the drawings of Leonardo Da Vinci through today’s Mini-Guns. Call the museum for more information.

The great industrial revolution of the nineteenth century was spawned on the banks of the Connecticut River. This mighty river supplied the driving force for many of American’s premier gun makers; Colt, Smith and Wesson, Harrington Richardson, Winchester, to name but a few. The fledgling nation of the United States needed an arsenal to supply its growing military needs. George Washington established a National Armory in Springfield in 1794. Almost immediately a museum was established to preserve advancements made in the arms field.

Since this museum is still in operation, it is one of the oldest in the US. Now maintained by the National Park Service, it is still the national treasure that I first saw in 1959, as a teenager dreaming about Thompson’s and BAR’s. Through the years, under the direction of men like Tom Wallace and Steven Beatty, this museum has become a Nirvana for collectors and historians. Once your “Bona Fides” have been established, vast treasures become open to you

Budget constraints have limited access to all but a select few. So my first step was to contact John R. McCabe, who among his many duties was being in charge of security. He immediately sent me a computer print out of ALL the BAR’s on site with a brief description of each. I had struck gold.

Also enclosed was an “Application for Access”. This delineated the rules and limitations that are necessary to protect these fragile artifacts. I had invited a good friend, Carl Majeskey, retired Lieutenant of the Massachusetts State Police to accompany me and photograph the precious BAR’s.

Friday, July 12, 1996, I am again at the Springfield Armory Museum doing research for my upcoming book on the Browning Automatic Rifle, “America’s Rock”. I am with my esteemed friend, Lt. Carl M. Majesky, retired head of Ballistics with the Massachusetts State Police. Carl is a legend in the weapon community, a friend of shooters and gun owners, the nemesis of the nefarious. I’ve spent countless hours listening to Carl’s stories of guns and bad guys. Carl is no stranger to Springfield since this is his “hometown” and he once made Garands here at the Armory. His stories of John Garand are legendary. We were met by John R. McCabe who is a National Park Ranger and Chief of Security at the facility. He had made all the arrangements for our visit. Carl and I were then introduced to James D. Roberts, the new Supervisory Museum Curator, an amiable young man who treated us with cautious curiosity until he had ascertained our mission and assessed our ability.

We were led upstairs to what would be best described as a Museum Laboratory. Where the object of my quest lay on a work bench, the coveted belt fed BAR.

My elation soon turned to disappointment as the entire mechanism was frozen shut. Probably some unthinking person had shot the weapon in the past and not cleaned it. It was also missing the muzzle device designed to enhance its stability in full-auto fire. I felt like an archaeologist who has seen the damage perpetrated by some vandal of the past. I thought, “Is this all I’m going to get out of the trip?”, until I asked, “Isn’t there a rack somewhere with a bunch of BAR’s?” With a wry smile, Jim replied “Well yes, I’ll see if I can get the key.”

Within fifteen minutes, Carl and I found ourselves where the real treasures are, beneath the ground in a secured vault. My adrenalin began to flow as the lights revealed rack after rack of neatly arranged treasures.

Just to name a few, a Maxim Pom Pom gun in the corner, the Super Secret Gast machine gun could be seen with its side mounted drums. One rack held all of the experimental models that led to the M-60. I’ve died and gone to heaven. Just leave me here, I’ll live off Cosmoline. We then entered a small side vault. Here you will see some of the pictures Carl and I took.

A second trip was needed and this time we were met by the superintendent, Steven Beatty, and James Roberts, who had set up an area for us to photograph the treasures we had requested.

Steve and Jim were not afraid to get their hands dirty as we setup for the photo shoot and even offered excellent advice for best exposures. I’m proud to say these photos and my comments will be included in the museum archives for future reference.

I can only say that despite shrinking budgets and staff cuts, everyone at the museum did everything possible to ensure the success of my book and to add to the historical treasure that is our American Heritage.