S&W 1940 Light Rifles: Receiver Breakage is a Problem

Published on September 6, 2018
Duration: 24:41

This guide details the disassembly process for the Smith & Wesson Model 1940 Light Rifle, as demonstrated by Ian McCollum. It highlights the unique trigger travel limit screw and captive cross-pin required for separating the stock from the receiver tube. The video emphasizes the critical safety warning associated with these rifles due to known receiver breakage issues.

Quick Summary

The Smith & Wesson Model 1940 Light Rifle suffered from critical receiver breakage issues due to its bolt slamming directly into the end cap. It was also noted for being excessively heavy and having a difficult-to-clear magazine/ejection system, leading to its rejection by the US military and failure during British trials.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction and History
  2. 01:20The British Contract and Failure
  3. 03:28Mark I vs. Mark II Comparison
  4. 05:20Barrel and Weight Issues
  5. 06:28Magazine and Ejection Design
  6. 09:51Mark II Safety and Disassembly
  7. 13:56Internal Firing Mechanism
  8. 17:20Receiver Breakage Analysis
  9. 18:52Post-War Discovery

Frequently Asked Questions

What were the main issues with the Smith & Wesson Model 1940 Light Rifle?

The primary issue was receiver breakage, caused by the bolt slamming into the end cap. It was also excessively heavy for its caliber and had a complex, difficult-to-clear magazine and ejection system.

Why did the S&W Model 1940 Light Rifle fail its British contract?

During a 5,000-round endurance test, the rifles failed because British 9mm ammunition had higher pressure than the design load, causing receiver caps to break off.

What are the key visual differences between the Mark I and Mark II versions of the rifle?

The Mark II features a corrugated rotary safety sleeve on the receiver, while the Mark I uses a lever safety located near the trigger. The Mark II also has a shorter bolt.

Were S&W Model 1940 Light Rifles ever sold to the public?

Yes, in 1975, Smith & Wesson sold a cache of these rifles to GT Distributors, which were then sold with prominent 'Extremely Hazardous' warning labels due to known safety concerns.

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