Armalite AR-17: A Shotgun from the World of Tomorrow!

Published on January 27, 2018
Duration: 11:20

This guide details the disassembly of the Armalite AR-17 shotgun, highlighting its unique aluminum construction and short recoil operating system. Expert instruction from Ian McCollum of Forgotten Weapons provides insights into the mechanical operation and material choices that made this 1960s shotgun distinct. The video emphasizes the use of steel only for critical wear components to achieve its exceptionally light weight.

Quick Summary

The Armalite AR-17, developed in the early 1960s, aimed to be the world's lightest shotgun, weighing under 5.5 lbs due to its aluminum construction. It features a short recoil, rotating bolt action and a 12-gauge, 2 3/4-inch chamber. Despite its innovation, it was a commercial failure, selling only about 1,200 units, largely because its extreme lightness made it uncomfortable to shoot.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to the Armalite AR-17
  2. 00:53Historical Context & Armalite's Strategy
  3. 02:15Visual Features and Markings
  4. 03:37Unique Loading Mechanism
  5. 05:25Mechanical Operation (Short Recoil, Rotating Bolt)
  6. 06:09Disassembly and Construction (Aluminum Focus)
  7. 08:57Market Failure and Legacy

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the Armalite AR-17 unique?

The Armalite AR-17 is unique for its construction using primarily aluminum, making it exceptionally lightweight (under 5.5 lbs). It also features a short recoil, rotating bolt action and a distinctive two-round capacity loading mechanism unlike traditional magazine tubes.

What was the historical context behind the Armalite AR-17's development?

Armalite developed the AR-17 in the early 1960s as a bid to enter the commercial shotgun market after selling the rights to the AR-15 to Colt. Their goal was to create the lightest shotgun available.

Why did the Armalite AR-17 fail commercially?

Despite its innovative lightweight design, the AR-17 was a commercial failure, selling only about 1,200 units. Its extreme lightness made it unpleasant to shoot and difficult to handle effectively for sporting purposes, leading to poor market reception.

What are the key mechanical features of the Armalite AR-17?

The AR-17 operates on a short recoil system with a rotating bolt, influenced by Armalite's rifle designs. It is chambered in 12 gauge with a 2 3/4 inch chamber and has a two-round capacity, utilizing a non-traditional loading block.

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