Smith and Wesson Model 1917

Published on September 7, 2021
Duration: 26:02

This guide details the loading process for the Smith & Wesson Model 1917 revolver, emphasizing the use of moon clips for rimless .45 ACP cartridges. It highlights the firearm's historical significance as a military sidearm and explains its unique chamber design that allows for headspacing on the case mouth. The information is presented with the high authority and casual, informative tone characteristic of hickok45's expert firearm reviews.

Quick Summary

The Smith & Wesson Model 1917 revolver, chambered in .45 ACP, utilizes a unique shoulder in its chambers for headspacing rimless cartridges on the case mouth. While it can fire without moon clips, they significantly aid in loading and unloading. This N-frame revolver played a vital role supplementing the M1911 during WWI and WWII.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction and Loading
  2. 01:16Cylinder Rotation Mechanics
  3. 02:13Moon Clip History and Military Use
  4. 04:43Evolution of S&W Revolvers
  5. 06:45WWI Contracts and Caliber Adaptation
  6. 08:41Chamber Design and Headspacing
  7. 10:31Service History and Markings

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you load a Smith & Wesson Model 1917 revolver with .45 ACP cartridges?

The Smith & Wesson Model 1917 can be loaded using moon clips for easier handling of rimless .45 ACP rounds, or individual cartridges can be placed directly into the chambers. The firearm's design allows .45 ACP to headspace on the case mouth.

What is the significance of moon clips for the S&W Model 1917?

Moon clips are crucial for efficiently loading and unloading the rimless .45 ACP cartridges in the Model 1917. While the revolver can fire without them, moon clips simplify the process and aid in extraction, as the standard ejector won't catch the rimless cases.

Why was the Smith & Wesson Model 1917 developed?

The Smith & Wesson Model 1917 was developed primarily to supplement the M1911 semi-automatic pistol during World War I and World War II due to shortages. It was chambered in .45 ACP under military contract.

What is unique about the S&W Model 1917's chamber design?

The Model 1917 features a shoulder inside its chambers that allows the rimless .45 ACP cartridge to headspace on the case mouth. This design enables the firearm to function reliably with this cartridge, even without the traditional rim found on revolver cartridges.

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