Videos tagged with US Army Trials

This review details the rare Model 1902 American Eagle Cartridge Counter Luger, one of only 50 produced for US Army trials in 9mm. It highlights the unique magazine-based cartridge counter mechanism, allowing visual confirmation of remaining rounds. Original models are valued at $100,000-$150,000, leading to modern Mauser reproductions retailing around $4,000.

This video delves into the history and specifics of the first dozen Colt 1911 pistols. It details their development from earlier John Browning designs, their victory in US Army trials against the Luger and Savage, and the unique characteristics of early production models. The speaker highlights the provenance of specific early serial numbers, including a significant 'surprise find' on serial number 11.

This review details the rare Powell Cartridge Counter Luger, one of the first 9mm Lugers tested by the US military in 1904-1905. It highlights the innovative but ultimately unsuccessful cartridge counter grip designed by Graham Powell, featuring a celluloid window and specialized magazine. Despite the 9mm caliber advancement, US trials favored .45 ACP, leading to the M1911 adoption.

This review covers the LugerMan reproduction of the 1907 .45 Test Trials Luger, a rare firearm based on original blueprints. The reproduction boasts impressive out-of-the-box reliability and accuracy, despite the challenges of the .45 ACP cartridge in a Luger platform. Key features include a specialized 55.5-degree grip angle for improved feeding and high-quality craftsmanship, making it a functional and exceptional option for collectors.

This review details the J.C. White prototype rifle, a contender in the 1929-1930 US Army trials. Despite its advanced features like a unique gas cutoff sleeve and manual follower release, it failed due to parts breakage compared to the Garand. The rifle showcased exceptional craftsmanship, possibly indicating external support, and was later tested in Great Britain.

The Blake Repeating Rifle, designed by John Blake, was an innovative contender in the 1892 US Army rifle trials, ultimately losing to the Krag-Jorgensen. Its unique 7-round packet magazine, which functioned like a revolver cylinder, was praised for its potential with varying cartridge lengths but criticized for being bulky and slow to load in field conditions. The rifle featured a robust bolt with four locking lugs and safety features like gas ports, and was later produced commercially in various calibers.