High Standard's Prototype World War One .45 ACP Pistol

Published on March 2, 2020
Duration: 9:29

This video explores the rare High Standard .45 ACP prototype pistol, a commercial evolution of the Grant Hammond design intended for WWI trials. It details the pistol's mechanical differences from the Grant Hammond, including its pivoting locking wedge system and dual recoil springs. The review highlights unique features like the external magazine loading button and an unusual rear sight, noting the pistol's rarity with only two known examples.

Quick Summary

The High Standard .45 prototype is a rare commercial version of the Grant Hammond .45, designed for WWI military trials. It features a unique pivoting locking wedge system, dual recoil springs, and an external magazine loading button, with only two known examples existing.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: High Standard .45 Prototype
  2. 01:54Physical Overview & M1911 Comparison
  3. 03:04Barrel Markings & Patent Status
  4. 03:29Mechanical Evolution from Grant Hammond
  5. 04:13Disassembly & Internal Mechanism
  6. 06:55Sights, Trigger, and Frame Details
  7. 08:37Conclusion: Rarity and Significance

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the High Standard .45 prototype pistol?

The High Standard .45 prototype is a rare semi-automatic pistol developed as a commercial version of the Grant Hammond .45. This design was an evolution of a firearm submitted for U.S. military trials during World War I, aiming for a market presence after the M1911 was adopted.

How does the High Standard .45 prototype differ mechanically from the Grant Hammond .45?

A key difference is the locking system. The Grant Hammond used a vertically traveling plunger, while the High Standard prototype features a pivoting locking wedge that secures the bolt to the slide during firing, offering a different method of lockup.

What makes the High Standard .45 prototype pistol rare?

Its rarity stems from its prototype status and limited production. Only two examples of the High Standard .45 are known to exist, with this specific unit being the only one bearing full manufacturer markings on the barrel, making it exceptionally scarce.

What are some notable design features of the High Standard .45 prototype?

Notable features include a robust, 'beefy' construction, dual recoil springs, a pivoting locking wedge system, and a unique magazine design with an external loading button. The rear sight also presents an unusual sight picture due to the bolt's spring catch.

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