Bushmaster Assault Rifle: A Stoner-Inspired 70s Carbine

Published on March 14, 2022
Duration: 18:24

This guide details the field stripping process for the Bushmaster Assault Rifle, a 1970s design influenced by the Stoner 63A. The video highlights its unique gas system and the separation of upper and lower receivers via two pins. It emphasizes the importance of removing the gas system retention bracket and disassembling the bolt carrier group for maintenance. The instruction comes from Ian McCollum, a recognized expert in historical firearms.

Quick Summary

The Bushmaster Assault Rifle, a 1970s design by Mack Gwinn, was inspired by the Stoner 63A's gas system. It features AR-15 controls, a left-side charging handle, and a sheet metal upper receiver. Despite theoretical interest, it suffered from crude manufacturing and poor reliability, including light primer strikes.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to Bushmaster Assault Rifle
  2. 00:341970s Firearms Transition
  3. 01:43Designer Mack Gwinn & Stoner 63 Influence
  4. 03:55External Features and Controls
  5. 07:09Disassembly and Construction
  6. 08:45Gas System and Internals
  7. 10:34Bolt Carrier Group Details
  8. 12:50Range Testing and Reliability Issues
  9. 15:53Final Assessment of Design

Frequently Asked Questions

What inspired the design of the Bushmaster Assault Rifle?

The Bushmaster Assault Rifle's design was heavily influenced by Mack Gwinn's experience with the Stoner 63A, particularly its gas system, which he favored over the AR-15's direct impingement system. This 1970s design aimed for cost-effective military-style functionality.

What are the key external features of the Bushmaster Assault Rifle?

The Bushmaster Assault Rifle features AR-15 fire control parts, a selector switch with a Bushmaster 'B' logo, a left-side reciprocating charging handle, and a standard AR-15 magazine release. It was offered with fixed wood or folding metal stocks.

What were the reliability issues with the Bushmaster Assault Rifle?

During live fire testing, the Bushmaster Assault Rifle exhibited poor reliability, including multiple failures to fire and light primer strikes. This indicated that while theoretically interesting, its practical execution was marred by crude manufacturing.

How is the Bushmaster Assault Rifle disassembled?

Disassembly involves two pins to separate the upper and lower receivers. The unique gas system retention bracket is then unscrewed, and the bolt carrier group can be removed for further cleaning or inspection.

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