Book Review: The U.S. Model 1917 Rifle - "America's Enfield"

Published on December 8, 2024
Duration: 7:35

This video reviews Bruce Canfield's book, "The U.S. Model 1917 Rifle - America's Enfield." The book provides comprehensive historical coverage of the M1917 rifle, from its origins as the British Pattern 1913 to its extensive use by American forces in WWI and WWII, as well as its post-war service and accessories. It highlights the rifle's conversion to .30-06 caliber and its production by Remington, Winchester, and Eddystone.

Quick Summary

Bruce Canfield's "The U.S. Model 1917 Rifle - America's Enfield" offers comprehensive historical coverage of this significant firearm. It details the M1917's origins from the British Pattern 1913, its adaptation to .30-06 caliber, and its extensive production by Remington, Winchester, and Eddystone for U.S. forces in WWI and WWII.

Chapters

  1. 00:03Introduction to the Book Review
  2. 00:13The U.S. Model 1917 Rifle: America's Enfield
  3. 00:23Author Bruce Canfield's Expertise
  4. 00:56M1917 vs. P17 Distinction
  5. 01:01Origins: British Pattern 1913 Rifle
  6. 01:14WWI Production for British Military
  7. 01:29US Entry and Need for Rifles
  8. 01:46Conversion to .30-06 Caliber
  9. 02:09The Model 1917 Designation
  10. 02:15Lack of Previous Detailed History
  11. 02:28Book Length and Structure
  12. 02:34Serial Number Appendix Details
  13. 03:25Brief on British P14 Rifles
  14. 03:39US Manufacturing and Production Numbers
  15. 03:48Politics, Development, and Conversion
  16. 04:04Issuance and Use in Combat
  17. 04:11Interwar Use and Debate
  18. 04:38World War II Usage
  19. 04:45Supplies to Allied Forces
  20. 05:01Post-War History
  21. 05:14Use by Sirius Dog Patrol
  22. 05:22Accessories: Bayonets and Grenade Launchers
  23. 05:35Experimental 'Pon Devices
  24. 06:01Sniper Patterns
  25. 06:10Collecting the Rifle: Markings and Rebuilds
  26. 06:18What the Book Doesn't Cover (Component Detail)
  27. 06:44Comparison to C.S. Ferrell's Book
  28. 06:57Recommendation: The Definitive Book
  29. 07:10Availability and Pricing
  30. 07:23Conclusion and Thanks

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the historical significance of the U.S. Model 1917 rifle?

The M1917 rifle, often called 'America's Enfield,' was a crucial firearm for the U.S. during World War I and II. It originated from the British Pattern 1913 rifle, was adapted to .30-06 caliber, and produced in large numbers by American firms like Remington and Winchester when the M1903 Springfield production was insufficient.

Who is Bruce Canfield and what is his expertise regarding firearms?

Bruce Canfield is a highly prolific and respected author specializing in American military small arms. He has written numerous well-regarded books on subjects including the Johnson rifles, World War I and II small arms, the M1903 Springfield, combat shotguns, and the M1 Garand, establishing significant expertise.

What key information does Bruce Canfield's book on the M1917 rifle cover?

Canfield's book provides comprehensive coverage of the M1917 rifle's history, from its British origins and conversion to .30-06, through its production by Remington, Winchester, and Eddystone. It details its use in WWI, WWII, interwar periods, post-war service, and associated accessories like bayonets and grenade launchers.

What is the difference between the M1917 and P17 rifles?

There is no 'P17' rifle; the designation is a common misconception. The rifle discussed is the U.S. Model 1917, which was an adaptation of the British Pattern 1914 rifle, converted to .30-06 caliber for U.S. military service.

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