Blake Bolt Action Rifle

Published on April 20, 2015
Duration: 10:46

This guide details the operation and features of the Blake Repeating Rifle, as presented by Ian McCollum of Forgotten Weapons. It covers the unique packet magazine system, bolt design, safety mechanisms, sights, and commercial calibers. The rifle was a domestic entry in the 1892 US rifle trials, ultimately unsuccessful against the Krag-Jorgensen.

Quick Summary

The Blake Repeating Rifle featured a unique 7-round cylindrical packet magazine that indexed with each bolt cycle. Despite its innovation, the US Army found it bulky and slow to load compared to simpler systems, leading to its failure in the 1892 rifle trials. It was later produced commercially in calibers like .30 Blake and .30-30.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Blake Repeating Rifle
  2. 00:53The Packet Magazine System
  3. 02:28Loading and Mechanical Operation
  4. 03:57Bolt Design and Safety Features
  5. 06:09Magazine Cutoff and Sights
  6. 08:09Commercial Production and Calibers

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the main innovation of the Blake Repeating Rifle?

The Blake Repeating Rifle's primary innovation was its unique 7-round cylindrical 'packet' magazine. This en-bloc clip held cartridges around its circumference and mechanically indexed with each bolt cycle, functioning similarly to a revolver cylinder.

Why did the Blake Repeating Rifle fail to win the 1892 US rifle trials?

While innovative, the Blake's packet magazine system was criticized by the Army for being bulky and difficult to load quickly under field conditions compared to simpler clip systems used by competitors like the Krag-Jorgensen.

What calibers was the Blake Repeating Rifle commercially produced in?

After failing military trials, the Blake Repeating Rifle was sold commercially in various calibers, including proprietary ones like .30 Blake and .400 Blake, as well as common rounds such as .30-30 and .236 Lee Navy.

What safety features are present on the Blake Repeating Rifle's bolt?

The Blake Repeating Rifle's bolt features four locking lugs at the front, a safety lug on the bolt handle, gas ports in the receiver, and a recessed bolt face designed to protect the shooter from ruptured cases.

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