The Most Notorious Gangster Shotgun of All Time - Whippit Gun

Published on May 2, 2025
Duration: 28:24

This guide details the operation and maintenance of the FN A5 'Whippit' conversion, a notorious gangster shotgun. It covers specific controls like the magazine shut-off and trigger guard safety, emphasizes proper technique for shortened stocks due to the long recoil action, and warns about common forend cracking issues. The information is presented with the authority of firearms historians and custom gunsmiths.

Quick Summary

The 'Whippit Gun' is a modified semi-automatic shotgun, often an FN A5 or Remington Model 11, sawed off for concealment and rapid deployment, famously used by Bonnie Parker. Key features include its long recoil action and, on the FN A5, a magazine shut-off for tactical chamber clearing. These guns require careful maintenance, especially regarding the prone-to-crack wooden forends.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Guns of Gangsters Series
  2. 04:07FN A5 vs. Remington Model 11 Differences
  3. 07:41Historical Context & Law Enforcement Use
  4. 11:17Range Demonstration & Controls
  5. 18:06Practical Use & Maintenance Issues
  6. 21:25FN A5 Build Details

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a 'Whippit Gun' and who famously used it?

A 'Whippit Gun' is a sawed-off, semi-automatic shotgun, often a Remington Model 11 or FN A5, designed for concealment and rapid deployment. It's famously associated with Bonnie Parker of the Barrow Gang for its discreet carry capabilities.

What are the key technical differences between an FN A5 and a Remington Model 11?

Both are based on John Browning's long recoil action. A key distinction is the FN A5's magazine shut-off feature, allowing chamber clearing without feeding a new round, which is absent on the Remington Model 11.

What are common maintenance issues with modified FN A5 or Remington Model 11 shotguns?

The wood forends on these vintage shotguns are highly susceptible to cracking due to the reciprocating barrel action. Repairs often involve mechanical pinning to reinforce the forend and ensure safe operation.

Can law enforcement use modified shotguns like the 'Whippit Gun'?

Yes, law enforcement, including figures like Texas Ranger Frank Hamer and Border Patrol agent Charles Askins Jr., utilized modified shotguns. Askins Jr. famously used a Model 11 with an extended magazine and a unique sight.

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