Afghan Schlegelmilch Carbine from the Kabul Arsenal

Published on February 8, 2021
Duration: 20:48

This guide details the tool-less field stripping procedure for the rare Afghan Schlegelmilch Carbine, as demonstrated by Ian McCollum. The carbine features a unique bolt design and construction that allows for complete disassembly without tools, highlighting its innovative engineering for its time. McCollum, a recognized expert in historical firearms, provides a clear demonstration of its mechanical features.

Quick Summary

The Afghan Schlegelmilch Carbine is a rare firearm from the Kabul Arsenal, featuring a unique bolt action and tool-less field stripping. Chambered in 8x57mm, it uses a Mannlicher-style en-bloc clip compatible with Gewehr 88 clips. Its design by Louis Schlegelmilch highlights innovative engineering for late 19th-century military trials.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to the Afghan Schlegelmilch Carbine
  2. 00:48Louis Schlegelmilch and Spandau Arsenal
  3. 01:59The Kabul Arsenal and Modernization
  4. 06:32Receiver Markings and Dating
  5. 09:14Magazine and Clip System
  6. 11:44Bolt Design and Firing Mechanism
  7. 13:47Tool-less Field Stripping
  8. 15:18Receiver and Barrel Construction
  9. 17:58Provenance and Rarity

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the significance of the Afghan Schlegelmilch Carbine?

The Afghan Schlegelmilch Carbine is exceptionally rare, with only one known example documented. It represents a unique design by Louis Schlegelmilch, developed for German military trials and later produced under contract for Afghanistan at the Kabul Arsenal.

How does the Afghan Schlegelmilch Carbine field strip?

The carbine is designed for tool-less field stripping. Its components are held together by spring-loaded latches and notches, allowing for complete disassembly without any external tools, a notable feature for its era.

What caliber and magazine system does the Afghan Schlegelmilch Carbine use?

This carbine is chambered in 8x57mm (8mm Mauser) and features a Mannlicher-style en-bloc clip magazine, specifically designed to be compatible with Gewehr 88 clips for loading.

Who was Louis Schlegelmilch and what was his connection to the carbine?

Louis Schlegelmilch was a gunsmith at the Spandau Arsenal in Germany. He designed the bolt system for the Gewehr 88 and later developed this alternative bolt-action system, which was adapted for the Afghan contract carbine.

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