"Ross" Semiauto Prototype Rifle

Published on January 5, 2014
Duration: 4:24

This entry details the "Ross" Semiauto Prototype Rifle, a unique firearm featuring a Blish-Lock action and Ross M1910 components. Expert Ian McCollum from Forgotten Weapons provides an analytical breakdown of its mechanics and historical context, highlighting its experimental nature and connection to early Thompson submachine gun development. The rifle's operation and the theory behind the Blish-Lock system are explained, emphasizing its experimental status and eventual limitations.

Quick Summary

The "Ross" Semiauto Prototype Rifle, analyzed by Ian McCollum on Forgotten Weapons, is an experimental firearm from circa 1915. It features a custom Blish-Lock action, utilizing Ross M1910 furniture and magazine. The Blish-Lock principle, based on friction between dissimilar metals, was an early attempt at delaying bolt opening, also explored for the Thompson SMG, but proved problematic with high-pressure cartridges.

Chapters

  1. 00:15Introduction to the Prototype
  2. 00:34Components and Dating
  3. 01:03The Blish-Lock System
  4. 01:25Blish-Lock Theory Explained
  5. 02:02Historical Context and Thompson SMG
  6. 02:43Internal Mechanics Inspection
  7. 03:13Manual Bolt Operation Demonstration
  8. 03:42Conclusion: Blish-Lock Experiment

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the "Ross" Semiauto Prototype Rifle?

The "Ross" Semiauto Prototype Rifle is an experimental firearm from approximately 1915, featuring a custom Blish-Lock action and components from a Ross M1910 rifle. It was presented by Ian McCollum on Forgotten Weapons.

How does the Blish-Lock system work?

The Blish-Lock system relies on the principle that dissimilar metals create high friction under pressure, theoretically delaying bolt opening. This experimental design was also explored for early Thompson submachine guns.

What historical significance does this prototype hold?

This prototype is significant as it represents an early attempt at a semi-automatic rifle using the Blish-Lock mechanism, a system later adapted and then discarded for the Thompson Submachine Gun due to pressure limitations.

What components are used in the "Ross" Semiauto Prototype Rifle?

The rifle incorporates furniture and an M1910 magazine from a Ross rifle, but its core action, the Blish-Lock, is a custom fabrication from around 1915.

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