I Have This Old Gun: Remington-Lee Rifle

Published on August 30, 2018
Duration: 5:00

This video explores the underappreciated Remington-Lee bolt-action rifle, highlighting the innovative contributions of designer James Paris Lee. It details Lee's invention of the detachable box magazine in 1879, crucial for handling smokeless powder cartridges. The discussion covers the evolution of the Remington-Lee design, including military adoption by the US Navy in 1885, and its foundational role in the later Lee-Metford and Lee-Enfield rifles.

Quick Summary

James Paris Lee, a pivotal figure in firearms design, invented the detachable box magazine in 1879. This innovation was essential for firearms utilizing smokeless powder. His Remington-Lee bolt-action rifle, particularly the 1882 iteration, laid the groundwork for the renowned Lee-Enfield series.

Chapters

  1. 00:04Introduction to James Paris Lee
  2. 00:17The Remington-Lee Bolt Action Rifle
  3. 00:30James Paris Lee's Key Invention: The Box Magazine
  4. 01:03Adapting to Smokeless Powder
  5. 01:41Lee's Legacy in Firearm Design
  6. 01:56The Remington-Lee's Detachable Box Magazine
  7. 02:05Evolution of the Remington-Lee Action (1879 vs 1882)
  8. 02:34Seeking Military Adoption
  9. 02:56Manufacturing Challenges with Sharps
  10. 03:13Remington Takes Over Manufacturing
  11. 03:17US Navy Adoption (1885)
  12. 03:48Action Similarities to Lee-Enfield
  13. 04:01Lee's Impact on British Rifles (Lee-Metford, Lee-Enfield)
  14. 04:33Sporting Remington-Lee Rifles

Frequently Asked Questions

Who was James Paris Lee and what was his most significant firearm invention?

James Paris Lee was a highly influential, though often underappreciated, Scottish-American firearms designer. His most significant invention was the detachable box magazine, which he patented in 1879. This innovation was crucial for the development of firearms capable of handling the higher pressures of smokeless powder cartridges.

How did the Remington-Lee rifle evolve, and what was its military significance?

The Remington-Lee rifle evolved from an initial 1879 design with the bolt forward of the receiver to an 1882 iteration with the bolt moved back, resembling later Lee-Enfield models. Its military significance grew when the US Navy purchased approximately 4,000 rifles in 1885, marking an important adoption of Lee's box magazine technology.

What is the connection between the Remington-Lee and the Lee-Enfield rifle?

The Remington-Lee rifle is considered the precursor to the famous Lee-Enfield family of rifles. James Paris Lee's fundamental bolt-action design and his box magazine system were adapted and refined for British service rifles, leading to the development of the Lee-Metford and subsequently the iconic Lee-Enfield.

Are there any notable differences between the Remington-Lee and the Lee-Enfield actions?

While the core action of the Remington-Lee and the Lee-Enfield are very similar, a key visual distinction is the stock. The Remington-Lee typically features a solid stock, whereas the Lee-Enfield is characterized by a split stock design, separating the forearm from the main stock.

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