Electrolux Charlton: Washing Machine Company Converts Bolt Action to Semiauto

Published on March 25, 2024
Duration: 17:01

This guide details the disassembly of the rare Electrolux Charlton Automatic Rifle, a semi-automatic conversion of the Lee-Enfield. Expert instruction covers removing the heat shield and action cover to reveal the complex gas-operated mechanism, including the piston, cam track, and rotating bolt system. The video emphasizes the historical context and rarity of this World War II-era firearm.

Quick Summary

The Electrolux Charlton Automatic Rifle is a rare semi-automatic conversion of the Lee-Enfield No. 1 Mk III, developed in Australia during WWII. It uses a gas-operated system with a piston driving a cam track to rotate the bolt. Its unique selector lever includes a 'Lock' position for manual bolt hold-open, as it lacks automatic last-round hold-open.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to the Charlton Automatic Rifle
  2. 01:27The Electrolux Melbourne Version
  3. 03:26External Features and Sights
  4. 06:06Selector Lever Functions
  5. 07:34Disassembly and Internal Components
  6. 11:32Mechanical Operation
  7. 14:32Project Cancellation and Fate

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Electrolux Charlton Automatic Rifle?

The Electrolux Charlton Automatic Rifle is a rare semi-automatic conversion of the British Lee-Enfield No. 1 Mk III bolt-action rifle, developed in Melbourne, Australia, during WWII. It features a gas-operated system and was intended as a self-loading rifle.

How does the Electrolux Charlton operate?

It operates using a gas-operated system where gas pressure from the barrel drives a piston. This piston interacts with a cam track, forcing the bolt to rotate and unlock for cycling, a significant departure from the original Lee-Enfield's bolt action.

What is unique about the Charlton rifle's selector lever?

The Charlton rifle's selector lever has three positions: Safe, Fire, and Lock. The 'Lock' position serves as a manual bolt hold-open, a necessary feature as the rifle lacks an automatic last-round bolt hold-open mechanism.

Why is the Electrolux Charlton considered rare?

The project was canceled before mass production, and most manufactured parts were reportedly destroyed. Consequently, very few complete examples were ever produced, making surviving Charlton rifles exceptionally rare collector's items.

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