Kin to the Armalite Rifle - The Johnson 1941 Barrel

Published on October 3, 2023
Duration: 3:06

This video details the barrel of the Johnson 1941 rifle, highlighting its similarities to the AR-15 barrel extension. The presenter discusses the process of restoring a sporterized Johnson 1941 barrel, including removing unwanted modifications and using Evapo-Rust to address pitting and corrosion. The segment emphasizes the historical connection between Melvin Johnson's designs and Eugene Stoner's AR-15.

Quick Summary

The Johnson 1941 rifle barrel shares a key design element with the AR-15: a separate barrel extension where bolt lugs interface. This extension is crucial for setting headspace. Restoration of a sporterized Johnson 1941 barrel involved removing modifications and using Evapo-Rust to treat pitting and corrosion.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to Johnson 1941 Rifle Barrel
  2. 00:11Bolt Carrier Group Similarities: Johnson vs. Colt 601
  3. 00:25Examining the Johnson 1941 Barrel
  4. 00:35Barrel Extension: Johnson 1941 vs. AR-15
  5. 00:45Receiver vs. Barrel Lug Interface
  6. 01:00AR-15 Barrel Extension Details
  7. 01:17Condition of the Johnson 1941 Barrel
  8. 01:24Removed Sporterized Parts
  9. 01:30Sporterized Front Sight Removal
  10. 01:41Unusual Two-Piece Collar Arrangement
  11. 01:54Pitting and Corrosion on the Barrel
  12. 02:04Using Evapo-Rust for Restoration
  13. 02:09Addressing Cold Bluing Attempts
  14. 02:24Historical Significance of the Barrel
  15. 02:31Collectibility of the Johnson 1941 Rifle
  16. 02:41Educational Value of Demonstrating Parts
  17. 02:51Conclusion: A Great Rifle

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary similarity between the Johnson 1941 barrel and an AR-15 barrel?

The primary similarity lies in the barrel extension. Both the Johnson 1941 and the AR-15 utilize a separate barrel extension that threads onto the barrel, and this extension is where the bolt lugs interface, playing a critical role in setting the firearm's headspace.

How was the sporterized Johnson 1941 barrel restored?

The sporterized Johnson 1941 barrel, which had pitting and corrosion, was treated with Evapo-Rust to remove rust and address the damage. Unwanted modifications like a sweat-on front sight were also removed.

What historical connection is highlighted between the Johnson 1941 and AR-15 designs?

The video points out that Eugene Stoner, the designer of the AR-15, likely drew inspiration from Melvin Johnson's work, specifically noting similarities between the Johnson 1941 bolt carrier group and the Colt 601 bolt carrier group.

Why is the barrel extension a separate piece on firearms like the AR-15 and Johnson 1941?

The barrel extension is a separate component, typically threaded onto the barrel with high torque (around 150+ ft-lbs for AR-15s), because it is the critical part that interfaces with the bolt lugs and precisely sets the headspace for the firearm.

Related News

All News →

More Gunsmithing & DIY Videos You Might Like

More from School of the American Rifle

View all →