History of WWI Primer 128: Swiss 1911s Documentary

Published on August 18, 2020
Duration: 65:00

This documentary delves into the evolution of Swiss Schmidt rifles, focusing on the Gewehr 1911 and Karabiner 11. It details the design changes from the earlier 1889 and 1896 models, including the relocation of locking lugs, the adoption of the GP11 cartridge, and ergonomic improvements like the semi-pistol grip. The video highlights how these rifles served as Switzerland's defense during WWI and their lasting impact on firearm design.

Quick Summary

The Swiss 1911 rifles, including the Gewehr 1911 long rifle and Karabiner 11 carbine, represented a significant advancement with relocated locking lugs for improved strength, the high-velocity GP11 cartridge for enhanced ballistics, and ergonomic features like a semi-pistol grip, making them formidable firearms during WWI.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Swiss 1889 to 1911 Evolution
  2. 00:29The Swiss Model 1896/1911: Overview
  3. 01:50Evolution from the 1889: Black Powder vs. Smokeless
  4. 05:06Problems with the 1889's Rear Locking Lugs
  5. 06:13The 1896 Adoption: Forward Locking Lugs
  6. 08:33Rare Variants: Cadet Rifle & Artillery Carbine
  7. 11:08Artillery Short Rifle Model 1900
  8. 12:06Cavalry Carbine Model 1905
  9. 13:04The Need for a New Cartridge: GP11
  10. 15:57Weight Reduction & Marksman Concerns
  11. 18:30The Gewehr 1911 Long Rifle: Design & Features
  12. 19:53Internal Changes: Bolt & Op Rod
  13. 22:22Magazine System & Receiver Modifications
  14. 23:221911 vs. 1896/11: Key Differences
  15. 25:42Shooting the Gewehr 1911
  16. 27:271911 Production & 1889 Obsolescence
  17. 30:42The Karabiner 11: Short Rifle Design
  18. 32:08Karabiner 11 Action & Features
  19. 34:38Shooting the Karabiner 11
  20. 36:30Conversions & Production Numbers
  21. 38:26Performance & WWI Context
  22. 40:21Swiss Armed Neutrality in WWI
  23. 42:24May's Opinion: 1911 vs. 1889
  24. 53:35May's Opinion: Karabiner 11 vs. Long Rifle
  25. 59:10Final Assessment: Strengths & Weaknesses
  26. 63:51Call to Action: Support the Channel

Frequently Asked Questions

What were the main design improvements in the Swiss 1911 rifles compared to earlier models?

The Swiss 1911 rifles featured relocated locking lugs for increased strength and a shorter action, an improved GP11 cartridge for flatter trajectory, and ergonomic enhancements like a semi-pistol grip, making them more reliable and user-friendly than their predecessors.

Why is the GP11 cartridge significant for the Swiss 1911 rifles?

The GP11 cartridge was a high-velocity spitzer round that significantly improved ballistic performance, offering a flatter shooting trajectory and greater effective range. It was designed to take full advantage of the stronger 1911 action.

How did the Swiss 1911 rifles contribute to Switzerland's neutrality during WWI?

Switzerland's well-armed military, equipped with reliable rifles like the 1911 series, served as a strong deterrent. Their armed neutrality, backed by a capable defense force, helped prevent invasion by the warring European powers.

What are the key differences between the Gewehr 1911 long rifle and the Karabiner 11?

The Gewehr 1911 is a full-length rifle, while the Karabiner 11 is a shorter, lighter carbine variant. The Karabiner 11 has a shorter tangent rear sight (1500m vs 2000m) and features front sight protectors, making it more maneuverable.

More General Videos You Might Like

More from C&Rsenal

View all →