Maxim Silverman Model 1896 Automatic Pistol

Published on February 24, 2017
Duration: 14:20

This guide details the disassembly process for the rare Maxim-Silverman Model 1896 automatic pistol, as demonstrated by Ian McCollum. It covers removing the external delaying spring and accessing the bolt and striker assembly. The process requires basic tools and careful handling of prototype components.

Quick Summary

The Maxim-Silverman Model 1896 is a rare automatic pistol featuring a delayed blowback action compensated by an external spring. Disassembly involves removing three screws and using the striker as a tool to unscrew the breech plug. Only three examples are known, in calibers like 7.63mm Borchardt and .455 Webley.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to Maxim-Silverman Model 1896
  2. 00:53Design History and Attribution
  3. 02:26Mechanical Challenges and Delay Spring
  4. 03:11Rarity and Caliber Variants
  5. 04:58External Features and Controls
  6. 07:04Disassembly Process
  7. 08:57Internal Components: Ejector Pin
  8. 10:29Firing Mechanism Explained
  9. 12:26Design Assessment and Potential

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Maxim-Silverman Model 1896 pistol?

The Maxim-Silverman Model 1896 is an extremely rare automatic pistol, likely designed by Lewis Silverman. It features a delayed blowback action, a detachable 8-round box magazine, and is chambered in 7.63mm Borchardt, though variants in other calibers exist.

How does the Maxim-Silverman Model 1896 delay its blowback action?

To compensate for the powerful 7.63mm Borchardt cartridge, the Maxim-Silverman Model 1896 incorporates an external leaf spring. This spring adds resistance, delaying the opening of the bolt and breech after firing to allow chamber pressure to decrease safely.

What are the key features of the Maxim-Silverman Model 1896's disassembly?

Disassembling the Maxim-Silverman Model 1896 involves removing three screws to detach the delaying spring and dust cover. The rear breech plug can then be unscrewed using the striker itself as a tool, allowing the bolt and striker assembly to be removed.

Why is the Maxim-Silverman Model 1896 considered rare?

Only three examples of the Maxim-Silverman Model 1896 are known to exist. Its development likely ceased due to Hiram Maxim's focus on military machine gun contracts, overshadowing this pistol design.

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