History of WWI Primer 060: British Webley Self Loader Mk I N Documentary

Published on September 26, 2017
Duration: 49:03

This guide details the field stripping process for the Webley Self Loader Mk I N, focusing on its unique locking mechanism. It highlights the importance of understanding the recoil lever, V-spring, and barrel locking lugs for proper disassembly and reassembly. The video emphasizes the pistol's historical significance as Britain's first adopted automatic pistol.

Quick Summary

The Webley Self Loader Mk I N, Britain's first adopted automatic pistol, features a unique locking breech system refined by William John Whiting. It has an 8.5-inch length, weighs 2.5 lbs, and uses a 7-round .455 Self Loading magazine. Despite innovative design elements, high production costs and sensitivity to adverse conditions limited its widespread military success.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to the Webley Self Loader Mk I N
  2. 00:43Technical Specifications
  3. 01:11Early Development: The Mars Automatic
  4. 03:02The Webley-Fosbery and Military Requirements
  5. 04:561903 Military Requirements
  6. 06:491904 Patent and Design Evolution
  7. 11:15The .455 Self Loading Cartridge
  8. 11:47Model 1904 Trials and Setbacks
  9. 14:441906 Patent: Revolutionary Breech Lock
  10. 16:481909 Trials and Navy Interest
  11. 21:10Adoption and WWI Service
  12. 23:58Field Stripping and Mechanism Demonstration
  13. 26:32Range Testing and Impressions
  14. 31:12Historical Legacy and Post-War Fate

Frequently Asked Questions

What were the key technical specifications of the Webley Self Loader Mk I N?

The Webley Self Loader Mk I N has an overall length of 8.5 inches, weighs 2.5 pounds, and features a 7-round detachable single-stack magazine chambered in .455 Self Loading (11.5x23mm). Its action is single, hammer-fired.

Who designed the Webley Self Loader Mk I N and what were its design influences?

William John Whiting refined the design, drawing inspiration from the Mars Automatic by Hugh Gabbett-Fairfax and his own work on the Webley-Fosbery automatic revolver. Whiting's 1904 patent introduced a rising block system.

What were the main challenges and limitations faced by the Webley Self Loader Mk I N?

Despite its innovative design, the pistol faced criticism for its safety position, sensitivity to sand, and high production costs. Its sensitivity to mud in trench conditions also limited its success in WWI.

How did the Webley Self Loader Mk I N compare to contemporary pistols like the Colt 1911?

In 1909 trials, the Webley was considered more reliable and accurate than the Colt 1905. However, the Colt 1911, with its simpler design and lower cost, became the more widely adopted service pistol.

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