Before the Lewis Gun was the McClean Automatic Rifle

Published on October 18, 2019
Duration: 16:39

This video provides an in-depth look at the rare 1919 McClean Automatic Rifle, the final design by Dr. Samuel McClean. It explores McClean's background, the company's investors, and the rifle's technical specifications, including its gas-operated system, rotating bolt with interrupted threads, and dual triggers for select-fire capability. The video highlights the rifle's connection to the Lewis Gun and its limited testing by the US Navy, concluding that this prototype is likely the sole surviving example.

Quick Summary

The 1919 McClean Automatic Rifle, designed by Dr. Samuel McClean, was a select-fire, gas-operated firearm featuring a unique dual-trigger system and a rotating bolt with interrupted thread locking lugs. It is considered a rare prototype, with the example discussed likely being the only one in existence, and its design concepts influenced later firearms like the Lewis Gun.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to the McClean Automatic Rifle
  2. 00:25Dr. Samuel McClean's Background
  3. 01:13McClean Arms Company and Investors
  4. 02:05Early Designs and the Lewis Gun Connection
  5. 04:21The 1919 Air-Cooled Design
  6. 05:06External Features and Controls
  7. 06:50Internal Mechanics and Bolt System
  8. 11:08Gas System and Barrel
  9. 14:32Navy Trials and Legacy

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the McClean Automatic Rifle?

The McClean Automatic Rifle was a select-fire, gas-operated firearm designed by Dr. Samuel McClean around 1919. It featured a unique dual-trigger system for semi-automatic and full-automatic fire and a rotating bolt with interrupted thread locking lugs.

Who was Dr. Samuel McClean?

Dr. Samuel McClean was a medical doctor from Iowa with a strong inventive mind, holding 36 US patents. He dedicated significant effort to firearms development, focusing on automatic cannons and machine guns, and his earlier ideas influenced the Lewis Gun.

What is the significance of the McClean Automatic Rifle's bolt system?

The rifle utilizes a rotating bolt with interrupted thread locking lugs. This mechanism allows for a secure lockup and a relatively quick cycling action, a key feature of its gas-operated system.

Why is the McClean Automatic Rifle considered rare?

The McClean Automatic Rifle (1919) is considered extremely rare because the prototype shown is believed to be the only surviving example of this specific model. Despite moderate success in US Navy trials, post-WWI military interest was low.

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