Prototype Ross "H5" from 1909

Published on February 22, 2021
Duration: 3:40

This entry details the Prototype Ross "H5" from 1909, a unique firearm developed by Charles Ross. Expert Ian McCollum of Forgotten Weapons provides an in-depth analysis, highlighting its experimental features such as a Mauser-pattern double-stack magazine, a British Lee-style stock, and a Springfield-pattern bolt stop. The prototype aimed to address issues with earlier Ross models, particularly the "dump magazine" of the Mark II, but ultimately saw limited influence on the subsequent Mark III.

Quick Summary

The 1909 Prototype Ross "H5" rifle, presented by Ian McCollum of Forgotten Weapons, is a unique experimental firearm. It incorporates a Mauser-pattern double-stack magazine, a British Lee-style stock with a brass buttplate, and a bolt stop inspired by the US Springfield rifle, aiming to resolve earlier Ross model feeding issues.

Chapters

  1. 00:03Introduction to Prototype Ross H5
  2. 00:21Mark II Magazine Issues
  3. 00:39Receiver Markings & Pattern
  4. 00:57Stripper Clip Guide
  5. 01:08Mauser Pattern Magazine
  6. 01:31Safety Lever Design
  7. 01:47Bolt Stop Design
  8. 01:54British Lee-Style Buttstock
  9. 02:10Unique Trigger Guard
  10. 02:19Barrel Diameter
  11. 02:29Flipping Front Sight Protector
  12. 03:05Prototype's Influence on Mark III

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the significance of the "H5" marking on the Prototype Ross rifle?

The "H5" marking is the sole identifier found on the receiver and bolt body of this specific tool-room prototype Ross rifle from around 1908-1909. It distinguishes this experimental piece from standard production models.

What design features differentiate the Prototype Ross "H5" from the later Mark III model?

The H5 prototype features a Mauser-pattern double-stack magazine, a British Lee-style stock, and a Springfield-pattern bolt stop. These differ from the Mark III's single-stack magazine and its more conventional stock and bolt stop designs.

Why was the "dump magazine" of the Ross Mark II considered an issue?

The "dump magazine" on the Ross Mark II was problematic because it did not function well with stripper clips, hindering the military's desired method of rapid reloading. This issue was a key driver for developing new prototypes like the H5.

What influence did other firearm designs have on the Prototype Ross "H5"?

The H5 prototype shows clear influence from the Mauser rifle (magazine follower), the British Lee rifle (buttstock style), and the US Springfield rifle (bolt stop design), indicating an experimental approach to incorporating successful elements from contemporary firearms.

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