America's Infantry Rifle of WWI - Model 1917

Published on March 18, 2026
Duration: 21:10

This video provides an in-depth look at the American Model 1917 rifle, often overshadowed by the M1903 Springfield during WWI. The presenter highlights its robust Mauser-based action, chambered in .30-06 Springfield, and compares it extensively to the Springfield. Key features discussed include its weight, internal six-round magazine, cock-on-close action, and manufacturing by Remington, Winchester, and Eddystone. The video also touches on its reliability in arctic conditions and its continued use by other nations.

Quick Summary

The American Model 1917 rifle, a robust WWI infantry firearm, is chambered in .30-06 Springfield and features a Mauser-based action that cocks on closing. It holds six rounds internally and was manufactured by Remington, Winchester, and Eddystone, serving alongside the M1903 Springfield.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: M1903 Springfield vs. M1917
  2. 01:25Gunsmithing Career Advice
  3. 02:07Cartridge History: .30-06 Springfield & .303 British
  4. 03:04The P14 and the M1917: American Infantry Rifle
  5. 03:24M1917 Rifle: A Tank of a Firearm
  6. 04:15Shooting the M1917
  7. 05:22M1917 Rifle Features: Buttstock to Front Sight
  8. 06:34Safety and Bolt Operation
  9. 07:21Cock-on-Close Action Explained
  10. 07:50M1917 Manufacturers: Remington, Winchester, Eddystone
  11. 08:19Furniture and Sling Mounts
  12. 08:39Bayonet Lug and Front Sight
  13. 08:53Rear Sight: Optimistic Ranges
  14. 09:27M1917 vs. Springfield: Size Comparison
  15. 09:44Accuracy and Sniper Variants
  16. 10:15Bolt Differences: Springfield vs. M1917
  17. 10:38Safety Location Comparison
  18. 11:04Last Round Hold Open and Magazine Cut-off
  19. 11:39M1917 vs. Modern Bolt-Actions
  20. 11:47Internal View and More Shooting
  21. 11:53Loading the M1917 Rifle
  22. 12:27Mauser Action Robustness
  23. 13:02Shooting the M1917 with .30-06
  24. 13:32Stock Markings and Finishes
  25. 14:35Shooting the M1903 Springfield
  26. 14:43M1903 Springfield Sights vs. M1903A3
  27. 15:29Springfield Magazine Capacity
  28. 15:44Shooting Springfield with 150 Grain Ball
  29. 16:17Springfield Rifle Aesthetics
  30. 16:38Arsenal Markings Comparison
  31. 16:40Ammunition Comparison: .303 British vs. .30-06
  32. 17:03Disassembling the Bolts: M1917 and Springfield
  33. 17:15M1917 Bolt Disassembly
  34. 17:39Springfield Bolt Disassembly
  35. 18:00Comparing M1917 and Springfield Bolts
  36. 18:28Extractor Spring and Safety Lug Differences
  37. 18:54Bolt Action Differences: Open vs. Close
  38. 19:02Reassembling the Bolts
  39. 19:38Conclusion: Maintenance, Accuracy, and Enjoyment
  40. 19:41Final Thoughts on Military Arms
  41. 20:01Collecting Military Firearms: Prices and Value
  42. 20:25Viewer Questions and Support

Frequently Asked Questions

What caliber is the American Model 1917 rifle?

The American Model 1917 rifle is chambered in the .30-06 Springfield cartridge. This was a significant upgrade from the .303 British used in its predecessor, the P14 rifle.

How does the Model 1917 compare to the M1903 Springfield?

The Model 1917 is heavier and bulkier than the M1903 Springfield, featuring a six-round internal magazine compared to the Springfield's five. Both are based on the Mauser action, but the M1917 cocks on closing, while the Springfield cocks on opening.

Who manufactured the Model 1917 rifle?

The Model 1917 rifle was mass-produced by three American companies: Remington, Winchester, and Eddystone. These rifles were supplied to both American and British forces during World War I.

What is the action type of the Model 1917 rifle?

The Model 1917 rifle utilizes a bolt-action mechanism that is heavily based on the robust and reliable Mauser action. A notable characteristic is that it cocks on closing the bolt.

What are the key features of the Model 1917 rifle's bolt?

The Model 1917 bolt is based on the Mauser design and features a longer extractor spring compared to the M1903 Springfield. Unlike the Springfield bolt, it does not have a secondary safety lug.

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