White Experimental .38 Caliber Automatic Pistols

Published on April 3, 2017
Duration: 7:45

This entry details the White Experimental .38 Caliber Automatic Pistols, prototypes designed by Joseph Chester White for the US 1907 pistol trials. It covers two distinct prototypes: a more refined but mechanically troubled version and a less refined but more functional version with a rotating barrel action. The analysis includes their unique design elements, historical context, and mechanical principles, drawing on expert insights from Forgotten Weapons.

Quick Summary

The White Experimental .38 Caliber Automatic Pistols, designed by Joseph Chester White, are rare prototypes featuring innovative mechanisms like short recoil and rotating barrels. These .38 caliber firearms were developed for the US 1907 pistol trials and showcase unique magazine designs, offering a glimpse into historical firearm development.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: White Prototype Pistols
  2. 00:30Designer: Joseph Chester White & White-Merrill
  3. 00:57Prototypes Pre-Date 1907 Trials Pistol
  4. 01:28Comparison of Two Prototypes
  5. 01:56First Pistol: Caliber Change Goal
  6. 02:20First Pistol: Cocking Mechanism
  7. 02:44First Pistol: Recoil System
  8. 03:36First Pistol: Sights
  9. 04:04First Pistol: Magazine
  10. 04:48Second Pistol: Less Refined, Rotating Barrel
  11. 05:24Second Pistol: Internal Mechanics and Striker
  12. 05:54Second Pistol: Unique Magazine Design
  13. 06:48Conclusion and Auction Information

Frequently Asked Questions

What caliber are the White Experimental Automatic Pistols?

The White Experimental Automatic Pistols discussed are chambered in .38 caliber, not the more common .45 ACP, which was a significant consideration during their design and development for trials.

Who designed the White Experimental Automatic Pistols?

The White Experimental Automatic Pistols were designed and patented by Joseph Chester White, who was associated with the White-Merrill team that participated in the US 1907 pistol trials.

What were the key mechanical features of the White Experimental .38 Caliber Automatic Pistols?

The prototypes showcased different mechanisms: one utilized a short recoil system with a C96-like locking wedge, while the other featured a rotating barrel as part of its recoil operation, demonstrating innovative but ultimately unsuccessful designs.

Where were the White Experimental .38 Caliber Automatic Pistols featured?

These unique prototype firearms were presented by Ian McCollum of Forgotten Weapons at a James D. Julia Inc. auction in Fairfield, Maine, highlighting their historical significance and rarity.

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