Hill SMG/Pistol: Inspiration for the FN P90

Published on April 28, 2021
Duration: 15:40

This video provides an expert-level overview of the Hill SMG/Pistol, a precursor to the FN P90's feeding system. It details John L. Hill's design innovations, including the horizontal magazine and downward ejection, and discusses its development, testing, and eventual production by H&B Enterprises. The analysis highlights the design's influence on later firearms, particularly the P90.

Quick Summary

The Hill SMG/Pistol, designed by John L. Hill, featured a groundbreaking horizontal magazine and a downward ejection system through the pistol grip. This innovative design directly inspired the feeding mechanism of the later FN P90, demonstrating a significant evolution in firearm technology.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Hill SMG/Pistol & FN P90 Link
  2. 00:27Designer John L. Hill Background
  3. 01:09Development and Testing at Aberdeen Proving Ground
  4. 02:28H&B Enterprises Production
  5. 03:00Visual and Design Variations
  6. 04:59Magazine Mechanism Details
  7. 06:17Internal Operation: Turntable Mechanism
  8. 08:24Safety and Downward Ejection System
  9. 09:35Operational Pros and Cons
  10. 11:33Legacy and FN P90 Connection

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the primary innovation of the Hill SMG/Pistol that inspired the FN P90?

The primary innovation was John L. Hill's unique horizontal magazine and feeding system, which allowed cartridges to be stored flat and fed into the chamber via a rotating turntable mechanism. This concept directly influenced the FN P90's distinctive magazine design.

Who developed the Hill SMG/Pistol and what was their background?

The Hill SMG/Pistol was developed by John L. Hill, a WWI pilot who later worked in the oil and gas industry. He conceived of the horizontal magazine system after World War II, filing patents in 1952.

What company produced versions of the Hill design, and what calibers were offered?

H&B Enterprises, based in Houston, TX, produced approximately 90-100 semi-automatic pistol versions of the Hill design. These pistols were chambered in either 9mm Parabellum or .380 ACP.

What is the unique ejection method of the Hill Pistol?

The Hill Pistol features a unique downward ejection system. Spent casings are expelled through the hollow center of the pistol grip, which serves as the ejection port.

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