Spoils of War: A Machine Gun Full of Bullet Holes

Published on February 15, 2016
Duration: 5:41

This St Etienne Model 1907 heavy machine gun, manufactured in 1916, is a war relic with significant battle damage, rendering it inoperable. Despite its condition, it remains a legally transferable NFA item due to its intact receiver. The video details its historical context, unreliability compared to the Hotchkiss, and analyzes seven distinct bullet impacts.

Quick Summary

This St Etienne Model 1907, a WWI French heavy machine gun, is a war relic with seven bullet impacts rendering it inoperable. Despite severe damage, its intact receiver makes it a legally transferable NFA item, serving as a historical artifact.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: St Etienne 1907 War Relic
  2. 00:46Historical Context & Unreliability
  3. 02:08Analysis of Battle Damage
  4. 03:39Auction & Legal Status (NFA)
  5. 05:01Trench Armor Feature

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the historical significance of the St Etienne Model 1907?

The St Etienne Model 1907 was a primary heavy machine gun for French forces during World War I. Despite its widespread use, it was known for being complex, expensive to produce, and often unreliable, eventually leading to its replacement.

Why is this damaged St Etienne 1907 still a transferable NFA item?

This St Etienne 1907 is classified as a machine gun and is transferable because its receiver, the legally defined 'firearm' component, remains intact. The extensive battle damage renders it inoperable but does not negate its NFA status.

What kind of damage does this St Etienne 1907 exhibit?

This specific St Etienne 1907 shows seven distinct bullet impacts, primarily on the receiver and barrel assembly, likely from enemy machine gun fire. The damage is severe enough to make the weapon completely inoperable.

What was the purpose of the trench armor on the St Etienne 1907?

The St Etienne 1907 featured a specialized piece of trench armor at the muzzle, intended to protect the gas system from shrapnel. However, in cases of direct, high-velocity impact like this example, the armor proved ineffective.

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