How Does it Work: Long Stroke Gas Piston

Published on March 28, 2019
Duration: 3:11

The long stroke gas piston system, exemplified by the AK-47 and M1 Garand, operates by redirecting gas to push a piston connected to the bolt carrier. This integrated system travels the full action length, offering simplicity and reliability due to fewer parts and increased momentum for extraction. However, its primary drawback is increased felt recoil from the heavy reciprocating mass impacting the receiver.

Quick Summary

The long stroke gas piston system integrates the piston with the bolt carrier, causing it to travel the full action length. Gas pressure pushes the piston rearward, ensuring reliable extraction and feeding due to its momentum, though it results in higher felt recoil.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to Long Stroke Gas Piston Systems
  2. 00:11Mechanical Operation Explained
  3. 00:40Long vs. Short Stroke Comparison
  4. 01:05Gas Venting and Receiver Protection
  5. 01:34Common Applications
  6. 01:45Advantages: Simplicity and Reliability
  7. 02:16Disadvantages: Felt Recoil

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a long stroke gas piston system?

A long stroke gas piston system is a firearm operating mechanism where the gas piston is integrated with the bolt carrier and travels the full length of the action. Gas pressure from a port in the barrel pushes this piston rearward, cycling the firearm.

What are the main advantages of a long stroke gas piston system?

The primary advantages are simplicity due to fewer parts and increased reliability. The heavy reciprocating mass provides momentum for positive extraction and feeding, making it robust in various conditions.

What is the main disadvantage of a long stroke gas piston system?

The main drawback is increased felt recoil. The significant mass of the piston and bolt carrier impacting the receiver during operation contributes to a harsher shooting experience compared to other systems.

Which firearms commonly use the long stroke gas piston system?

This system is widely used in many rifles and light machine guns, famously including the AK-47, AKM, M1 Garand, Browning Automatic Rifle (BAR), and the ZB/Bren series of machine guns.

Related News

All News →

More General Videos You Might Like

More from Forgotten Weapons

View all →