History of WWI Primer 092: The "Montenegrin" Documentary

Published on January 15, 2019
Duration: 47:36

This review delves into the Montenegrin Gasser, a significant cultural and military firearm of Montenegro, often a Belgian-made copy. It details the revolver's substantial specifications, including its 11x36mmR caliber and heavy build, and explores its historical context within Montenegrin military culture and armament laws under Nikola I. The video also covers design variations, Gasser's evolution, and the 'Montenegrin' pattern's actual rejection, noting its use by Austria-Hungary and Germany in WWI due to shortages. Finally, it examines mechanical features, disassembly, and range testing, highlighting its powerful but flawed performance.

Quick Summary

The Montenegrin Gasser is a substantial, five-shot revolver in 11x36mmR, weighing 2.81 lbs and 10.4 inches long. While a cultural icon, many were Belgian copies, and the 1883 'Montenegrin' pattern was rejected for its barrel length. These revolvers saw use in WWI by Austria-Hungary and Germany due to shortages, but caution is advised with Belgian versions due to potential soft iron construction.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Montenegrin Gasser Revolver
  2. 00:59Technical Specs: 11x36mmR Gasser
  3. 01:47Montenegrin Military Culture & Gasser
  4. 02:39Political History & Armament Laws
  5. 06:56Gasser Contract & Design Variations
  6. 09:55Evolution of Gasser Designs
  7. 11:21The 'Montenegrin' Pattern & WWI Use
  8. 12:48Mechanical Features & Disassembly
  9. 17:38Range Testing & Ergonomics

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key specifications of the Montenegrin Gasser revolver?

The Montenegrin Gasser is a heavy, five-shot revolver chambered in 11x36mmR. It typically weighs around 2.81 lbs, measures 10.4 inches in length, and features a gate cylinder. The contract specification for Montenegro often involved a 9.25-inch barrel.

Was the Montenegrin Gasser officially adopted by Montenegro?

While strongly associated with Montenegro, the 1883 'Montenegrin' pattern was actually rejected by Montenegro for having a barrel deemed too short. However, the Gasser revolver was deeply integrated into Montenegrin military culture and law under Nikola I.

Were Gasser revolvers used in World War I?

Yes, surplus 'Landwehr' versions of Gasser revolvers were used by Austria-Hungary and Germany during World War I. This was primarily due to significant weapon shortages faced by these Central Powers during the conflict.

Are Belgian-made Gasser revolvers safe to shoot?

Caution is advised with Belgian-made Gasser revolvers. Many were produced with soft iron, which can compromise their structural integrity and make them unsafe for live fire. Thorough inspection by a qualified gunsmith is recommended.

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