CETME LC: Last of the Roller-Delayed Carbines

Published on September 18, 2020
Duration: 12:06

This guide details the internal mechanical differences between the CETME L and its carbine variant, the CETME LC, as explained by Ian McCollum. Key changes include relocating the recoil spring to the receiver and modifying the bolt carrier group to accommodate a shorter barrel and collapsing stock, while maintaining standardized external components for manufacturing efficiency. The expert analysis highlights the engineering trade-offs for the carbine conversion.

Quick Summary

The CETME LC carbine, a variant of the Spanish CETME L rifle, features a shorter 320mm barrel and a collapsing metal stock. Internal modifications include relocating the recoil spring to the receiver and altering the bolt carrier group for proper function, while maintaining external parts commonality for manufacturing efficiency.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to CETME LC
  2. 00:17Barrel Length Comparison
  3. 00:31Internal Redesign for Collapsing Stock
  4. 01:08Bolt and Recoil Spring Mechanics
  5. 03:10Charging Handle Modifications
  6. 03:52Standardized Components
  7. 06:02Handling and Stock Features
  8. 06:46Sights and Muzzle Devices
  9. 08:15Weight and Portability
  10. 09:25MarColMar Builds and Legalities

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main differences between the CETME L and the CETME LC carbine?

The CETME LC is a carbine variant featuring a shorter 320mm (12.6 inch) barrel and a collapsing metal stock. These changes necessitated an internal redesign, moving the recoil spring forward into the receiver and modifying the bolt carrier group.

How does the CETME LC's roller-delayed blowback system work with its modifications?

The CETME LC's bolt carrier group has its rear spacer removed and weight added to the front to maintain mass for the roller-delayed action. The charging handle extension is also shortened to accommodate these changes.

Why is the CETME LC only slightly lighter than the CETME L despite having a shorter barrel?

The weight savings from the shorter barrel on the CETME LC are largely offset by the addition of a heavier collapsing metal stock, resulting in a minimal overall weight difference compared to the standard CETME L with its fixed stock.

Are there any legal considerations for owning a CETME LC, particularly regarding parts compliance?

Commercial builds of the CETME LC, when registered as a Short Barreled Rifle (SBR), are exempt from US 922r compliance, allowing the use of original Spanish parts without legal issues.

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