OSS "Bigot" 1911 dart-firing pistol

Published on April 2, 2012
Duration: 10:31

This guide details the installation of the OSS 'Bigot' conversion for the M1911 pistol, a World War II clandestine device designed for silent projectile deployment. The conversion allows the M1911 to fire finned darts or small grenades using a .25 caliber blank cartridge. Expert analysis from Ian McCollum of Forgotten Weapons highlights its unique mechanism and historical context.

Quick Summary

The OSS 'Bigot' was a World War II M1911 pistol conversion designed for silent elimination of sentries using finned darts or grenades. It employed a .25 caliber blank cartridge in the projectile's nose to generate propulsion gas. Despite its unique design and various dart prototypes, it was likely a finicky system and saw limited production or combat use.

Chapters

  1. 00:10Introduction: OSS 'Bigot' M1911 Conversion
  2. 01:15Mechanism and Components
  3. 02:39Dart Propulsion System
  4. 03:31Assembly and Loading
  5. 06:23Dart Variations
  6. 09:04Grenade Attachments

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the purpose of the OSS 'Bigot' M1911 conversion?

The OSS 'Bigot' was a World War II clandestine weapon modification for the M1911 pistol, designed for silently eliminating sentries using finned darts or small grenades instead of standard ammunition.

How does the OSS 'Bigot' conversion propel its projectiles?

It uses a .25 caliber blank cartridge loaded into the projectile's nose. When fired, the blank detonates, creating gas pressure that forces the dart or grenade down the barrel.

What types of projectiles could the OSS 'Bigot' fire?

The conversion could fire specialized finned darts, some with unique aerodynamic designs, and larger grenade-style projectiles, all propelled by blank cartridges.

Was the OSS 'Bigot' conversion widely used?

While ingenious, the OSS 'Bigot' is considered a finicky design, and historical evidence suggests it likely never saw major production or widespread combat use.

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