"Ross" Semiauto Prototype Rifle

Published on January 5, 2014
Duration: 4:24

This video explores a unique "Ross" Semiauto Prototype Rifle from approximately 1915, featuring a custom action based on the experimental Blish-Lock system. While utilizing furniture and a magazine from a Ross rifle, the core mechanism is a novel design that was also tested in early Thompson submachine guns. The Blish-Lock's principle of using friction between dissimilar metals under pressure proved problematic in high-pressure rifle cartridges, leading to its eventual abandonment for simpler blowback designs.

Quick Summary

The "Ross" Semiauto Prototype Rifle, dated to 1915, features a custom action using the experimental Blish-Lock system. This mechanism relies on friction between dissimilar metals under pressure to delay bolt opening, a principle also tested in early Thompson SMGs but found problematic for high-pressure rifle cartridges.

Chapters

  1. 00:15Introduction: Unique Semiauto Prototype
  2. 00:34Ross Parts & Estimated Date (1915)
  3. 01:03The Blish-Lock System Explained
  4. 01:25Blish-Lock Principle: Friction Theory
  5. 02:02Historical Context: Thompson SMG
  6. 02:43Internal Mechanics: Hammer & Firing Pin
  7. 03:13Manual Bolt Operation Demo
  8. 03:42Conclusion: Blish-Lock Experiment

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the "Ross" Semiauto Prototype Rifle?

It's a rare experimental semi-automatic rifle from approximately 1915, featuring a custom action based on the Blish-Lock system. It utilizes furniture and a magazine from a standard Ross rifle for its construction.

What is the Blish-Lock system?

The Blish-Lock is an experimental firearm mechanism that uses the friction between dissimilar metals under high pressure to delay bolt opening. It was theorized to improve reliability in high-pressure firearms.

Why was the Blish-Lock system ultimately unsuccessful in high-pressure rifles?

The Blish-Lock proved problematic in high-pressure rifle applications, such as the Thompson .30-06 prototype. It was eventually removed from the Thompson SMG in favor of a simpler straight blowback operation.

What parts from a standard Ross rifle are used on this prototype?

The prototype utilizes furniture, including the stock, and an M1910 magazine from a standard Ross rifle. These parts were likely incorporated for convenience or parts commonality during its experimental development.

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