I Have This Old Gun: Winchester Model 1907

Published on November 15, 2023
Duration: 7:45

The Winchester Model 1907 was an early semi-automatic rifle developed by Thomas Crossley Johnson, notable for its blowback action and chambering in the potent 351 Winchester Self-Loader cartridge. It saw use with police forces and military observers, and even gained notoriety with Prohibition-era outlaws. Despite its advanced design for the time, it faced challenges in commercial success due to its unique design and cost.

Quick Summary

The Winchester Model 1907 was an early semi-automatic rifle featuring a blowback action and the potent 351 Winchester Self-Loader cartridge. Developed by Thomas Crossley Johnson, it saw use with police and military observers and was notable for appearing before widespread military adoption of semi-automatic rifles.

Chapters

  1. 00:05Early Self-Loading Rifle Development
  2. 00:15Introducing the Winchester Model 1907
  3. 00:28Winchester's Early Semi-Automatic Models
  4. 00:40The 351 Winchester Self-Loader
  5. 00:52Blowback Action and Heavy Calibers
  6. 01:151907's Civilian Market Precedence
  7. 01:30Mexican Military Adoption of Semi-Autos
  8. 01:48Development for Police Use
  9. 02:06WWI Military Contracts (Russia, Britain)
  10. 02:19French Adoption and Modifications
  11. 02:49Precursor to BAR?
  12. 03:01US Army Use in Punitive Expedition
  13. 03:26Innovator Thomas Crossley Johnson
  14. 03:50Johnson's Semi-Automatic Actions
  15. 04:03Challenges with Early Models
  16. 04:171907's Blowback Action and 351 Cartridge
  17. 04:30The 351 Self-Loader Cartridge
  18. 04:52Law Enforcement Interest
  19. 05:19Outlaw Adoption (1920s-1930s)
  20. 05:25H. H. H. Lebman Modifications
  21. 05:46Pretty Boy Floyd and Dillinger Connection
  22. 06:08Reasons for Limited Commercial Success
  23. 06:30Post-WWI Sporting Rifle Market
  24. 07:08Cost and Ammunition Premium
  25. 07:25Production Lifespan and Numbers

Frequently Asked Questions

What made the Winchester Model 1907 a significant firearm in early semi-automatic rifle development?

The Winchester Model 1907, designed by Thomas Crossley Johnson, was notable for its robust blowback action and the potent 351 Winchester Self-Loader cartridge. It predated widespread military adoption of semi-automatic rifles and was developed for police and military observer use.

Who used the Winchester Model 1907, and in what contexts?

The Model 1907 was adopted by police forces, saw service with Russian and British forces in WWI, and was used by the US Army during the Punitive Expedition. It also gained notoriety for its use by Prohibition-era outlaws.

Why did the Winchester Model 1907 struggle with commercial success despite its advanced design?

Commercial success was limited because its unique design was unfamiliar to consumers accustomed to bolt-action rifles. Additionally, it was more expensive than bolt-action alternatives, both for the rifle and its ammunition, especially during the Great Depression.

What was the significance of the 351 Winchester Self-Loader cartridge used in the Model 1907?

The 351 Winchester Self-Loader was a powerful cartridge for its era, providing effective performance for personal protection, law enforcement, and hunting. Its potency was a key factor in the rifle's development and adoption.

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