Why do we know so little about this gun? With firearms and weaponry expert, Jonathan Ferguson

Published on February 8, 2023
Duration: 25:36

This video delves into an unidentifiable early 20th-century prototype firearm from the Royal Armouries. Expert Jonathan Ferguson meticulously analyzes its unique internal toggle action, recoil operation, and .400/.375 H&H caliber. The research points towards a potential design by Lazare Jovanovic, highlighting the challenges and rewards of researching obscure historical weaponry.

Quick Summary

The 'Unknown Gun' from the Royal Armouries is an early 20th-century prototype featuring a unique internal toggle action, similar to Luger or Pedersen designs, and chambered in .400/.375 H&H. Expert Jonathan Ferguson identifies Lazare Jovanovic as a potential designer based on a matching 1933 patent.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to the Mystery Gun
  2. 01:19Physical Overview and Stock Design
  3. 03:01Receiver and Action Mechanism
  4. 05:33Demonstrating the Toggle Action
  5. 08:36Internal Components and Firing System
  6. 12:00Caliber Identification
  7. 15:31Potential Designer: Lazare Jovanovic

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the 'Unknown Gun' from the Royal Armouries significant?

This early 20th-century prototype is significant due to its completely unknown maker and unique internal toggle action, a recoil-operated system housed entirely within the receiver, suggesting advanced experimental design for its time.

What caliber is the mystery prototype rifle chambered in?

A chamber cast revealed the rifle is chambered in .400/.375 H&H Belted Rimless Nitro Express. This cartridge, introduced by Holland & Holland in 1905, was designed for self-loading sporting rifles and was the first commercially available belted cartridge.

Who might have designed the Royal Armouries' unknown prototype firearm?

Based on a 1933 patent, firearms expert Jonathan Ferguson suggests Lazare Jovanovic, a Serbian competitive shooter known for sporting firearms, is a likely designer. The patent shares key design elements, including the internal toggle system and secondary spring.

What does the physical condition of the prototype rifle suggest about its history?

The rifle's roughly finished Monte Carlo stock, lack of a butt plate, visible rasp marks, and bare steel receiver with milling marks all indicate it is an unfinished prototype. Evidence of 'peening' suggests it was test-fired with powerful rounds.

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