Apache Arms Carbine: A Saga of Compliance and Crappy Manufacture

Published on November 3, 2025
Duration: 18:13

This guide details the field stripping process for the Apache Arms Carbine, as demonstrated by Ian McCollum. It covers separating the receiver, removing the bolt and recoil spring, and reassembling the firearm. The video emphasizes the carbine's simple construction and its historical context related to NFA compliance.

Quick Summary

The Apache Arms Carbine was a semi-automatic firearm developed as a cheaper alternative to the Thompson Submachine Gun, featuring a closed-bolt action and .45 ACP caliber. It incorporated design elements like a square steel receiver and a non-removable firing pin to comply with NFA regulations, though its manufacturing quality was notably poor, utilizing crude cast aluminum and folded steel components.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to Apache Arms Carbine
  2. 00:44The Spitfire Predecessor & ATF Issues
  3. 01:58Design for Compliance
  4. 03:51Controls and Magazines
  5. 04:55Furniture and Construction
  6. 07:05Disassembly and Internal Components
  7. 11:30Fire Control and Legal Documentation
  8. 13:28Business History and Value

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the purpose of the Apache Arms Carbine?

The Apache Arms Carbine was designed as a cheaper, semi-automatic alternative to the Thompson Submachine Gun. It aimed to comply with NFA regulations by incorporating specific design features to prevent easy conversion to full-auto fire.

What were the main manufacturing issues with the Apache Arms Carbine?

The carbine suffered from poor manufacturing quality, characterized by crude cast aluminum parts, folded sheet steel fire control groups, and a generally low-quality build, making it a poor value proposition despite its lower initial cost.

How did the Apache Arms Carbine attempt to comply with NFA regulations?

Apache Arms modified the design significantly from its predecessor (the Spitfire Carbine). Key compliance features included a square steel receiver to prevent parts interchangeability and a non-removable firing pin welded in place, intended to satisfy ATF requirements.

What magazines does the Apache Arms Carbine use?

The Apache Arms Carbine utilizes M3 Grease Gun magazines. This was a deliberate choice by the manufacturer to use cheaper and more readily available magazines compared to Thompson Submachine Gun magazines.

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