White-Merrill Experimental Model 1911 Pistol

Published on April 6, 2017
Duration: 10:59

This entry details the White-Merrill Experimental Model 1911 Pistol, a unique prototype that never saw official adoption. It explores its delayed blowback action, rotary hammer mechanism, and construction from brass or gunmetal. The analysis highlights its historical context as a follow-up to the less successful 1907 model and its "PAT APP'D FOR" marking, emphasizing its status as a rare, experimental firearm.

Quick Summary

The White-Merrill Experimental Model 1911 Prototype featured a unique delayed blowback action with a rotary hammer and a frame made of brass or gunmetal. It was a successor to the unreliable 1907 model but was never officially adopted due to being a single prototype and the prior selection of the Colt-Browning design.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction and Historical Context
  2. 03:00Comparison with 1907 Model
  3. 04:15Mechanical Design and Patent Claims
  4. 06:12Delaying Mechanism and Internal Components
  5. 08:35Markings and Final Details

Frequently Asked Questions

What made the White-Merrill 1911 prototype unique?

The White-Merrill 1911 prototype was unique for its delayed blowback action, employing a rotary hammer mechanism. It also featured a frame made of brass or gunmetal for easier prototyping and a single-stack magazine, distinguishing it from contemporary designs and its own predecessor.

Why was the White-Merrill 1911 prototype never officially adopted?

The White-Merrill 1911 prototype was never officially adopted primarily because only one prototype existed, and it was not formally submitted for full testing. The Colt-Browning design had already been selected by the Ordnance Department, making further consideration of this experimental model unlikely.

How did the White-Merrill 1911 prototype differ from the 1907 model?

The 1911 prototype was a delayed blowback, single-stack pistol, whereas the earlier 1907 model was a locked-breech, double-stack design. This represented a significant shift in operating principles and capacity, aiming to address the reliability issues encountered with the 1907 version.

What materials were used in the White-Merrill 1911 prototype's construction?

The frame of the White-Merrill 1911 prototype was constructed from brass or gunmetal. This material choice was likely made to simplify the machining process for this single prototype, as opposed to the steel typically used in mass-produced firearms.

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