Prototype Pieper .45ACP Pistol

Published on March 13, 2015
Duration: 8:41

This entry details the disassembly of a rare Prototype Pieper .45 ACP pistol, as demonstrated by an expert from Forgotten Weapons. It highlights unique mechanical features such as a tilting barrel for case removal, a shrouded hammer, and the absence of an extractor, all crucial for understanding its historical context and design.

Quick Summary

The Prototype Pieper .45ACP pistol is a unique firearm featuring a straight blowback action, barrel positioned underneath, and recoil springs on top. It notably lacks an extractor, with spent casings removed by tilting the barrel via a lever. This design was submitted for US military trials but performed poorly.

Chapters

  1. 00:19Introduction and Location
  2. 00:42Prototype Pieper .45ACP Pistol Overview
  3. 01:03Pieper Company History
  4. 01:30Nicholas Pieper and Smaller Pistols
  5. 02:36Prototype .45 Caliber Pistol Mechanics
  6. 03:19Charging and Extraction Mechanism
  7. 04:22Bolt and Spring Assembly
  8. 04:52Disassembly (Partial)
  9. 05:21Internal Hammer and Firing Pin
  10. 06:04Magazine Design
  11. 06:41Magazine Catch Mechanism
  12. 07:02Markings and Proof Marks
  13. 07:47Sights
  14. 08:00Conclusion and Auction Information

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the Prototype Pieper .45ACP pistol mechanically unique?

The Prototype Pieper .45ACP pistol features a straight blowback action with the barrel underneath and recoil springs on top. It uniquely lacks an extractor, requiring a lever to tilt the barrel for spent case removal.

Who was Henri Pieper and what is his connection to FN Herstal?

Henri Pieper founded the Pieper company in Liege, Belgium in 1866. He was a founding partner of FN Herstal, a major European firearms manufacturer, establishing a significant legacy in the firearms industry.

How does the Prototype Pieper .45ACP pistol handle spent casing extraction?

Unlike most pistols, this Pieper prototype does not have a conventional extractor. A manual lever on the left side of the frame is used to tilt the barrel upwards, providing access to manually remove any spent casings.

What are the notable markings found on the Prototype Pieper .45ACP pistol?

Markings include 'N' for Nicholas Pieper, indicating his design involvement, and Belgian proof marks such as the Peron, star over B, and PV. An '8B' import mark is also visible.

Related News

All News →

More Gunsmithing & DIY Videos You Might Like

More from Forgotten Weapons

View all →