Bergmann No.5 / 1897

Published on January 12, 2017
Duration: 23:01

This guide details the field stripping process for the Bergmann No.5 / 1897 pistol, as demonstrated by Ian McCollum of Forgotten Weapons. It covers unlocking the bolt, removing the barrel shroud, and extracting the barrel. The video highlights the unique side-tilting bolt action and the importance of careful disassembly for maintaining historical firearms.

Quick Summary

The Bergmann No.5 / 1897 pistol utilizes a short-recoil action with a distinctive side-tilting bolt that unlocks by tilting left. Chambered in 7.8mm Bergmann, it fired an 85-grain bullet at approximately 1,300 fps. Despite its advanced design, it was rejected by military trials due to perceived fragility and caliber preferences.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction and Design History
  2. 00:54Cartridge and Performance
  3. 01:38Military Trials (Swiss and British)
  4. 02:16Civilian Market and Production
  5. 03:31Physical Features and Magazine
  6. 04:11Sights and Safety
  7. 05:17Gas Relief and Action
  8. 06:03Disassembly Process
  9. 07:39Mechanical Operation
  10. 09:42Shoulder Stock and Holster
  11. 11:55Carbine Variants
  12. 13:39Production Evolution
  13. 15:08Sporter Carbine
  14. 16:51Ammunition and Markings
  15. 20:32Presentation Model

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary action type of the Bergmann No.5 / 1897 pistol?

The Bergmann No.5 / 1897 operates on a short-recoil system featuring a unique side-tilting bolt mechanism that unlocks by tilting to the left during the recoil cycle.

What caliber was the Bergmann No.5 / 1897 pistol chambered in?

The Bergmann No.5 / 1897 was chambered in 7.8mm Bergmann, a cartridge firing a .30 caliber bullet similar to the 7.63mm Mauser, with an 85-grain bullet achieving around 1,300 fps.

Why was the Bergmann No.5 / 1897 pistol rejected by military trials?

Both Swiss and British military trials rejected the Bergmann No.5; the Swiss found it too fragile and awkward, while the British preferred a .45 caliber sidearm, leading Bergmann to focus on the civilian market.

How is the Bergmann No.5 / 1897 pistol field stripped?

Field stripping involves locking the bolt back, depressing a latch, unscrewing the barrel shroud, and then pulling the barrel forward and out of the receiver, revealing the tilting bolt mechanism.

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