Turner Light Rifle Prototype (2nd Model)

Published on November 8, 2016
Duration: 17:04

This guide details the field stripping process for the Turner Light Rifle Prototype (2nd Model), as demonstrated by Ian McCollum. It covers the removal of major components like the bolt carrier group, trigger group, and gas piston. The process highlights the rifle's M1 Garand-inspired trigger group and its gas-piston operated, side-locking bolt mechanism. Always prioritize safety by ensuring the firearm is unloaded before disassembly.

Quick Summary

The Turner Light Rifle Prototype (2nd Model), designed by Russell Turner of Butler, PA, was part of the US government's program to create a light semi-automatic rifle under 5 lbs, intended to become the M1 Carbine. Despite innovative features like a side-locking bolt and M1 Garand-style safety, it failed trials due to ammunition powder changes impacting its gas-operated system.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Turner Light Rifle Prototype (2nd Model)
  2. 00:52Light Rifle Program Requirements
  3. 01:23Turner's Submissions & Design Evolution
  4. 02:58Testing Failures and Ammunition Issues
  5. 05:35External Features and Controls
  6. 07:23Internal Mechanism and Disassembly
  7. 10:30Bolt Assembly and Safety Features

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the purpose of the Turner Light Rifle Prototype program?

The Turner Light Rifle Prototype program was part of a US government effort to develop a new semi-automatic rifle weighing under 5 pounds, which ultimately led to the development of the M1 Carbine. Russell Turner submitted his designs as a private inventor.

Why did the Turner Light Rifle Prototype (2nd Model) fail in trials?

The rifle performed poorly due to a change in government-specified ammunition powder (from IMR 4227 to Hercules 2400). This altered the pressure curve, causing reliability issues with its gas-operated system.

What are some notable design features of the Turner Light Rifle Prototype (2nd Model)?

It features a gas-piston operated, side-locking bolt mechanism, an M1 Garand-style safety, a unique side-mounted bolt handle, and a bolt assembly with an out-of-battery safety feature. The ejection port is covered when the bolt is closed.

Who was Russell Turner and where was he from?

Russell Turner was a private inventor from Butler, Pennsylvania, who designed the Turner Light Rifle Prototype. His design was submitted to the US government's program to develop a new light rifle.

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