Gewehr 71 with Experimental Magazine

Published on November 19, 2015
Duration: 10:00

This guide details the detachment of an experimental horseshoe magazine from a Gewehr 71 rifle, as demonstrated by Ian McCollum. The process involves safely unloading the firearm and then manipulating the magazine's mounting plate. Once detached, the rifle reverts to its standard single-shot configuration. This procedure highlights the unique design of early repeating rifle magazine trials.

Quick Summary

The Gewehr 71, the first Mauser adopted by the German military, is shown with a rare experimental horseshoe magazine from the early 1880s. This design, tested alongside other magazine types, featured an 8-round capacity and a cutoff lever. The magazine detaches via a bottom mounting plate, allowing the rifle to function as a single-shot.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction of Gewehr 71 Experimental Magazine
  2. 01:07Historical Context: Need for Repeating Rifles
  3. 02:16Experimental Magazine Trials in Germany
  4. 03:28Rifle Specifics: Prussian Contract & Markings
  5. 04:14Magazine Operation: Follower and Spring
  6. 06:48Magazine Cutoff Functionality
  7. 07:19Detachable Feature Demonstration
  8. 08:23Internal Mechanics of the Magazine

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the significance of the Gewehr 71 rifle?

The Gewehr 71 holds historical importance as the first Mauser rifle adopted by the German military in 1871. It represented a crucial step in the evolution of military firearms towards repeating rifle designs.

What kind of experimental magazine is featured on this Gewehr 71?

This specific Gewehr 71 is equipped with a rare, experimental external horseshoe-shaped magazine. Developed by Ludwig Loewe, it was one of several designs tested by Germany in the early 1880s to enhance firepower.

How does the horseshoe magazine detach from the Gewehr 71?

The horseshoe magazine detaches via a mounting plate located on the bottom of the rifle. The video demonstrates manipulating this mechanism to release the magazine, after which the rifle functions as a standard single-shot.

What was the purpose of the magazine cutoff on this rifle?

The magazine cutoff lever on the Gewehr 71 with the experimental magazine allows the shooter to keep rounds in the magazine in reserve. This enables the user to manually load single shots without depleting the magazine's capacity.

Related News

All News →

More Gunsmithing & DIY Videos You Might Like

More from Forgotten Weapons

View all →