USFA Zip 22: How a Garbage Gun Destroyed A Good Company

Published on September 14, 2018
Duration: 28:15

This guide details the disassembly of the USFA Zip 22, highlighting its simple internal design composed of polymer and stamped steel parts. It covers the removal of the rear sight, top cover, and screws to access the three recoil springs and barrel assembly. The information is presented by Ian McCollum, an expert in rare firearms, offering critical analysis of the design's implications for the company's downfall.

Quick Summary

The USFA Zip 22 was a .22 LR pistol whose commercial and technical failure led to the demise of the U.S. Fire Arms Company (USFA). Designed as a cheap, modular platform, it suffered from dangerous ergonomics, an unsafe charging system, and unreliability stemming from its light polymer bolt and high bolt velocity, ultimately causing the company to sell its valuable SAA manufacturing equipment.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction and Company Background
  2. 03:25Ergonomics and Controls
  3. 07:15The Charging Mechanism
  4. 10:15Disassembly and Internal Design
  5. 13:30Technical Failure Analysis and Legacy

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the USFA Zip 22?

The USFA Zip 22 was a .22 LR pistol designed by Doug Donnelly with the goal of being a cheap, modular platform. Its development and subsequent failure are widely credited with leading to the downfall of the U.S. Fire Arms Company (USFA).

What were the main design flaws of the USFA Zip 22?

Key flaws included unconventional ergonomics requiring an awkward grip, a dangerous charging mechanism placing the hand near the muzzle, and unreliability due to a light polymer bolt causing excessive velocity and feeding issues. It also lacked a traditional extractor and ejector.

Why did the USFA Zip 22 lead to the company's downfall?

To fund the expensive tooling for the Zip 22's plastic molds, USFA sold off its high-quality Single Action Army manufacturing equipment. When the Zip 22 failed commercially and technically, the company lacked the assets and reputation to recover.

What magazines are compatible with the USFA Zip 22?

The USFA Zip 22 utilizes standard Ruger 10/22 rotary magazines. While 10-round magazines often function, higher-capacity magazines like the BX-15 or BX-25 can experience feeding failures due to the pistol's high bolt velocity.

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