America's First Assault Rifle: Burton 1917 LMR

Published on October 26, 2025
Duration: 1:07

This video provides an in-depth look at the Burton 1917 LMR, often considered America's first assault rifle. Ian McCollum details its unique features, including the dual magazine system and dual trigger for select-fire capability, highlighting its advanced design for its era.

Quick Summary

The Burton 1917 LMR is often cited as America's first assault rifle, featuring an open-bolt action and a unique dual trigger system for select-fire capability. Its innovative dual magazine system, utilizing 20-round magazines, allowed for rapid transitions between firing and storage positions, showcasing advanced design for its era.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to the Burton 1917 LMR
  2. 00:08Dual Magazine System
  3. 00:22Magazine Engagement Mechanics
  4. 00:42Select-Fire Trigger Mechanism
  5. 00:58Internal Sear Operation

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the Burton 1917 LMR considered America's first assault rifle?

The Burton 1917 LMR is considered America's first assault rifle due to its advanced features for its time, including select-fire capability (semi-automatic and fully automatic modes) and a high-capacity magazine system, aligning with the characteristics of modern assault rifles.

How does the dual magazine system of the Burton 1917 LMR work?

The Burton 1917 LMR features a unique dual magazine system where one 20-round magazine is in a storage position while the other is in the firing position. A specific seating process ensures the correct magazine is ready for feeding rounds.

What is the fire mode selection mechanism on the Burton 1917 LMR?

The Burton 1917 LMR employs a dual trigger system. The primary trigger engages semi-automatic fire, while simultaneously depressing a secondary trigger enables fully automatic fire, offering versatile firing options.

What type of action does the Burton 1917 LMR utilize?

The Burton 1917 LMR operates with an open-bolt action. In this configuration, the bolt remains to the rear when cocked and moves forward to chamber a round and fire when the trigger is pulled.

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