M1917 Eddystone: Great Gun for the Great War

Published on May 12, 2016
Duration: 30:47

This review of the M1917 Eddystone rifle, presented by firearms expert Nutnfancy, delves into its historical significance as a primary arm for American forces in WWI. It covers the rifle's production, practical use considerations, operational features like its cock-on-closing bolt and sights, and performance metrics. The assessment highlights the M1917 as a rugged, reliable, and historically important firearm, though its weight and sight limitations are noted for modern applications.

Quick Summary

The M1917 Eddystone rifle, a key firearm of WWI, is praised for its ruggedness and historical significance. Chambered in .30-06, it offered 6-round capacity and good accuracy for its time. While heavy and featuring a basic sight system, it remains a highly collectible piece and a testament to wartime production.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction and Acquisition
  2. 05:12Historical Context and Production
  3. 08:35Philosophy of Use (POU)
  4. 12:05Sights and Accuracy Challenges
  5. 15:14Action and Ergonomics
  6. 18:46Performance and Final Assessment

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the historical significance of the M1917 Eddystone rifle?

The M1917 Eddystone was developed during WWI due to a shortage of M1903 Springfields. It was adapted from the British P14 and chambered in .30-06, arming approximately 75% of the American Expeditionary Forces, making it a crucial firearm for the war effort.

How does the M1917 Eddystone perform in terms of accuracy and handling?

For its era, the M1917 Eddystone offers good to excellent accuracy, typically achieving 3-4 inch groups at 100 yards with iron sights. It features a smooth, cock-on-closing bolt action and a comfortable safety, though its weight and sight limitations require specific handling considerations.

What are the main drawbacks of the M1917 Eddystone for modern use?

The M1917 Eddystone's primary drawbacks for modern use are its substantial weight (around 10 lbs) and the limitations of its rear sight, which lacks windage adjustment and can cause the rifle to shoot high. These factors make it less practical for tactical roles or extended carrying compared to contemporary firearms.

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