Canadian 8mm “Sterile” Bren Gun

Published on April 12, 2019
Duration: 14:22

This guide details the field stripping procedure for the unique John Inglis 8mm Bren Gun, as demonstrated by Ian McCollum. It covers the separation of the lower receiver, removal of the bolt carrier, and the quick-release barrel. The video highlights the differences in bolt face and extractor for the 8mm rimless cartridge compared to the standard .303 British version.

Quick Summary

The Canadian 8mm Inglis Bren Gun is a unique variant chambered in 8mm Mauser (7.92x57mm), featuring a straight 20-round magazine. Developed by John Inglis for Nationalist China, it required specific bolt face and extractor modifications to accommodate the rimless cartridge, distinguishing it from the standard .303 British models.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to the 8mm Bren Gun
  2. 00:35History of John Inglis Company
  3. 02:13Chinese Contract and 8mm Development
  4. 04:50Markings and Variants
  5. 08:44Technical Features and Capacity
  6. 09:38Disassembly and Internal Components
  7. 10:48Post-War Legacy and L4 Development

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the Canadian 8mm Bren Gun unique?

The Canadian 8mm Bren Gun, manufactured by John Inglis, is unique due to its chambering in 8mm Mauser (7.92x57mm) and its use of a straight 20-round magazine, distinguishing it from the standard .303 British caliber versions. It was developed for Nationalist China.

What is the history behind the John Inglis 8mm Bren Gun?

John Inglis in Toronto secured contracts to produce Bren guns. The 8mm version was developed by reverse-engineering the Czechoslovakian ZB-30 for Nationalist China, which used 8mm Mauser ammunition.

How do you field strip the 8mm Inglis Bren Gun?

Field stripping involves separating the lower receiver, removing the bolt carrier group, and detaching the quick-release barrel. Ensure the firearm is unloaded before starting disassembly.

What are the key technical differences of the 8mm Bren compared to the .303 version?

The primary difference lies in the bolt face and extractor, which are adapted to handle the rimless 8mm Mauser cartridge, unlike the rimmed .303 British cartridge.

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