Lewis Gas Operated Prototype Pistol

Published on December 9, 2016
Duration: 9:08

This review explores the rare Lewis Gas-Operated Prototype Pistol, a miniaturized version of the Lewis LMG. It features a unique gas-operated, rotating bolt system firing from an open bolt, patented in 1919. While mechanically interesting with a reversible firing pin and clever sleeve charging handle, the prototype lacks a manual safety and appears less practical than contemporary designs like the 1911.

Quick Summary

The Lewis Gas-Operated Prototype Pistol is a rare handgun based on the Lewis LMG, featuring a gas-operated, rotating bolt firing from an open bolt. Patented in 1919, it includes a reversible firing pin and a sleeve charging handle, though it appears less practical than the 1911 and may be missing a manual safety.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Lewis Pistol Prototype
  2. 01:27External Features & Controls
  3. 03:04Disassembly & Internal Mechanics
  4. 06:30Unique Characteristics & Missing Features

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Lewis Gas-Operated Prototype Pistol?

It's a rare prototype handgun designed by Isaac Newton Lewis, essentially a miniaturized version of his Lewis Light Machine Gun. It features a gas-operated, rotating bolt system that fires from an open bolt, patented in 1919.

How does the Lewis Pistol's operating system work?

The pistol uses a gas-operated system where gas hits a piston connected to the bolt. This system drives a rotating bolt, locking it into place before firing, and operates from an open bolt position.

What are the notable features of the Lewis Prototype Pistol?

Key features include its gas-operated rotating bolt, open-bolt firing, a reversible firing pin for a spare, and a sleeve over the gas piston acting as a charging handle. It fires semi-automatically.

Was the Lewis Prototype Pistol practical compared to other firearms?

While mechanically interesting, Ian McCollum suggests it was likely less practical than contemporary designs like the 1911 Colt Browning. The prototype also appears to be missing a manual safety mechanism.

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