Minute of Mae: U.S. Secret Weapon: The Pedersen Device

Published on May 13, 2021
Duration: 1:01

This guide details the installation of the Pedersen Device, a WWI-era conversion that transforms the bolt-action U.S. Rifle Model 1903 into a semi-automatic firearm. The process involves removing the standard bolt and inserting the device, followed by locking in its distinctive 40-round magazine. The device fires a unique .30 Pedersen cartridge, distinct from the rifle's standard .30-06.

Quick Summary

The Pedersen Device was a secret WWI weapon designed to convert the U.S. Rifle Model 1903 into a semi-automatic firearm. It utilized a 40-round magazine and fired a unique .30 Pedersen cartridge, offering a higher rate of fire but suffering from reliability issues and added bulk.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to the Pedersen Device
  2. 00:19Installation and Operation
  3. 00:31Firing and Recoil
  4. 00:40Reliability and Mechanics
  5. 00:50Final Assessment

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the Pedersen Device?

The Pedersen Device was a secret weapon developed for World War I that converted the standard bolt-action U.S. Rifle Model 1903 into a semi-automatic firearm using a 40-round magazine and a unique .30 Pedersen cartridge.

How is the Pedersen Device installed on an M1903 rifle?

Installation involves setting the rifle's cutoff tab to the mid-position, removing the standard bolt, and then sliding the Pedersen Device into the receiver. The 40-round magazine is then inserted with a specific motion.

What caliber cartridge does the Pedersen Device use?

The Pedersen Device fires a proprietary .30 Pedersen cartridge, which is a .32 caliber pistol-style round, distinct from the rifle's standard .30-06 Springfield ammunition.

What were the main drawbacks of the Pedersen Device?

The device was prone to frequent jams due to limited extractor space, added significant weight and length to the rifle, and was generally considered less powerful and practical than dedicated submachine guns of the era.

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