Brown/van Choate Trials Rifle: Internal Hammer in 1871

Published on April 24, 2020
Duration: 10:17

This video provides an in-depth look at the extremely rare Brown/van Choate Trials Rifle, a unique 1871 bolt-action design. Expert Ian McCollum details its internal hammer, double trigger system, and proprietary .45-70 caliber, highlighting its historical significance in US military trials and its significant design flaws, such as the fixed extractor. The analysis emphasizes the rifle's rarity and its place in early breech-loading firearm development.

Quick Summary

The Brown/van Choate Trials Rifle, a rare 1871 bolt-action firearm, featured an internal hammer and a double trigger system. Designed by S.F. van Choate and made by Brown Manufacturing, it was submitted to the 1872 US military trials but failed due to design quirks like a fixed extractor, making surviving examples exceptionally scarce.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Brown/van Choate Trials Rifle
  2. 01:22Markings, Patents, and Serial Number
  3. 02:05Bolt Design and Fixed Extractor Flaw
  4. 04:21Internal Hammer and Double Trigger System
  5. 06:51Adjustable Bolt Tension and Company History
  6. 08:54Conclusion: Rarity and Trial Failure

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the Brown/van Choate Trials Rifle unique for its time?

The Brown/van Choate Trials Rifle, designed by Sylvanus Frederick van Choate and manufactured by Brown Manufacturing Company, is notable for its internal hammer and a double trigger system, which were unusual features for a bolt-action rifle in 1871.

What were the main design flaws of the Brown/van Choate Trials Rifle?

A significant flaw was its fixed, non-spring-loaded extractor, which required manual manipulation for loading and could prevent the bolt from closing. The rifle also featured an unnecessary adjustable bolt tension screw.

Why is the Brown/van Choate Trials Rifle considered extremely rare?

Very few were produced for the 1872 US military trials, and even fewer have survived. Its impractical design led to its failure in the trials, contributing to its rarity as a collector's item and a piece of firearm history.

What is the historical context of the Brown/van Choate Trials Rifle?

This rifle was submitted to the extensive 1872 US military trials, which evaluated nearly 100 different breech-loading firearm designs. Its failure in these trials highlights the challenges of early firearm development and standardization.

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