Thorneycroft to SA80 Stretch Goal: The 4.85mm Cartridge

Published on April 12, 2020
Duration: 3:28

This video delves into the 4.85mm cartridge, a British development related to the SA80 and Enfield weapon system. Expert Jonathan Ferguson explains its technical characteristics, comparing it to the 5.56mm and Soviet 5.45mm, and discusses its design origins as detailed in the book "Thorneycroft to SA80." The discussion highlights the cartridge's development within the context of British bullpup firearms and its place in military history.

Quick Summary

The 4.85mm cartridge was a British development for the Enfield weapon system, featuring a slimmer, longer bullet and a slightly longer case than the 5.56mm. It aimed for better penetration and velocity, mirroring Soviet 5.45mm concepts, but was ultimately a derivative of the 5.56mm.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Book Kickstarter & Stretch Goal
  2. 00:19Introducing 4.85mm Cartridge
  3. 00:344.85mm vs. 5.56mm Comparison
  4. 01:074.85mm as a 5.56mm Derivative
  5. 01:33Technical Differences
  6. 01:47Soviet 5.45mm Parallels
  7. 01:56Hindsight on 4.85mm Design
  8. 02:15Design Process of 4.85mm
  9. 02:40British Design Paradox
  10. 02:47Book Promotion and Call to Action

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the 4.85mm cartridge?

The 4.85mm cartridge was a British development for the Enfield weapon system, intended as an improvement over the 5.56mm. It featured a slimmer, longer bullet and a slightly longer case, aiming for better penetration and velocity, similar to the Soviet 5.45mm.

How does the 4.85mm cartridge compare to the 5.56mm?

The 4.85mm cartridge case is about 1mm longer than the 5.56mm, and its bullet has a smaller cross-section and is longer. While developed with advanced concepts, it was essentially a derivative of the 5.56mm and not a significant improvement.

Who is Jonathan Ferguson and what is his expertise?

Jonathan Ferguson is the author of "Thorneycroft to SA80: British Bullpup Firearms 1901-2020." He is presented as an expert on British bullpup firearms and ammunition, providing detailed historical and technical analysis in the video.

Where can I learn more about the 4.85mm cartridge and British bullpup firearms?

You can learn more by reading the book "Thorneycroft to SA80: British Bullpup Firearms 1901-2020" by Jonathan S. Ferguson. The video mentions that pre-ordering was available via Kickstarter, with a stretch goal unlocking content on British ammunition.

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