Anvil 033: Lewis gun firing pin and oprod repair

Published on June 5, 2021
Duration: 23:05

This video details the repair of a bent firing pin and loose operating rod on a Lewis Gun. Mark Novak demonstrates how to disassemble the Oprod, reshape the firing pin tip to prevent primer piercing, and straighten a bent pin using heat and hammering. The process highlights the importance of precise measurements for firing pin protrusion and the safety hazards associated with incorrect component geometry.

Quick Summary

A bent firing pin or loose operating rod in a Lewis Gun can cause binding and metal shaving. Repair involves disassembling the Oprod, reshaping the firing pin tip to prevent primer piercing, and straightening bent pins with controlled heat. Precise measurement of firing pin protrusion is key for safe and reliable function.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Problem: Bent Firing Pin & Loose Oprod
  2. 01:30Firing Pin Inspection & Design
  3. 03:51Disassembling the Operating Rod
  4. 06:30Reshaping the Firing Pin Tip
  5. 08:19Reassembly & Pin Securing
  6. 12:44Straightening the Original Firing Pin
  7. 16:29Measuring Firing Pin Protrusion
  8. 22:25Test Fire & Post-Analysis

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the common problems with a Lewis Gun's firing pin and operating rod?

A bent firing pin or a loose operating rod can cause the Lewis Gun's action to bind and shave metal inside the receiver. This video shows how to identify and repair these critical issues for reliable operation.

How do you safely repair a bent firing pin on a vintage firearm like the Lewis Gun?

Repairing a bent firing pin involves careful disassembly, heating the old metallurgy to a dull glow, and precisely hammering it straight on an anvil. Proper heat management is crucial to prevent the aged metal from snapping.

Why is the shape of the Lewis Gun firing pin tip important?

The firing pin tip must be rounded. A sharp or flat tip can pierce primers, leading to dangerous high-pressure gas blowback into the firearm's action, posing a significant safety risk.

What is the correct firing pin protrusion for a Lewis Gun?

While specific target values can vary, the firing pin protrusion is mechanically set by the operating rod shoulder. This video demonstrates measuring protrusion with dial calipers, aiming for a correct strike depth to ensure reliable ignition.

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