Understanding Rifle Floorplate Design and Function | MidwayUSA Gunsmithing

Published on January 8, 2008
Duration: 1:31

Larry Potterfield of MidwayUSA provides an expert guide to understanding and differentiating between three common rifle floorplate designs: detachable, hinged, and blind magazines. He demonstrates the specific procedures for releasing or unloading each type, emphasizing practical gunsmithing techniques for common rifle models like the Mauser Model 98 and Remington Model 700. This instructional content is valuable for firearm owners seeking to perform basic maintenance or understand their rifle's internal magazine access.

Quick Summary

Expert Larry Potterfield from MidwayUSA explains three rifle floorplate designs: detachable, hinged, and blind magazines. He demonstrates how to unload Mauser Model 98 (detachable) and Remington Model 700 (hinged and blind) rifles, detailing the specific mechanisms and techniques for each type.

Chapters

  1. 00:07Introduction to Floorplate Types
  2. 00:16Detachable Floorplate Demonstration (Mauser 98)
  3. 00:36Hinged Floorplate Demonstration (Remington 700)
  4. 00:49Blind Magazine Explanation (Remington 700)
  5. 00:59Unloading Blind Magazine Technique
  6. 01:15Summary of Floorplate Types

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the three main types of rifle floorplate designs?

The three main types are detachable floorplates, hinged floorplates, and blind magazines. Detachable floorplates can be removed entirely, hinged floorplates swing open, and blind magazines lack external access, requiring unloading through the action.

How do you unload a rifle with a blind magazine?

To unload a rifle with a blind magazine, you must cycle the bolt. Slightly push the bolt forward to clear the feed rails, then pull it fully rearward to extract cartridges one by one until the magazine is empty.

What is the difference between a hinged and a detachable floorplate?

A hinged floorplate is attached to the trigger guard by a pivot and opens via a release lever, while a detachable floorplate can be completely removed from the rifle, often using a spring-loaded plunger mechanism.

Which rifle models were used to demonstrate floorplate types?

The Mauser Model 98 was used to demonstrate a detachable floorplate, and the Remington Model 700 was shown with both a hinged floorplate and a blind magazine configuration.

More Gunsmithing & DIY Videos You Might Like

More from MidwayUSA

View all →