OSS "Stinger" Covert Cigarette Guns

Published on July 16, 2018
Duration: 5:57

This entry details the OSS Stinger, a disposable .22 Short pistol developed by the OSS for WWII covert operations. Expert Ian McCollum explains its single-shot, striker-fired mechanism, firing procedure, and the evolution from the T1 to the reinforced T2 model due to significant design flaws. The video highlights the weapon's intended use as a close-range assassination tool and warns of its inherent dangers.

Quick Summary

The OSS Stinger was a disposable .22 Short caliber pistol used by the OSS in WWII, disguised as everyday items. It featured a single-shot, striker-fired mechanism activated by its pocket clip. Early T1 models had significant reliability issues, leading to the reinforced T2 variant designed to prevent dangerous barrel bursts.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to Stinger Cigarette Guns
  2. 00:53Mechanical Breakdown and Firing Mechanism
  3. 01:36Firing Procedure Explained
  4. 02:37Production Issues and T1 Flaws
  5. 03:34Evolution to the T2 Model
  6. 04:26Historical Context and Safety Warnings

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the OSS Stinger?

The OSS Stinger was a clandestine, disposable .22 Short caliber pistol produced by the OSS during World War II. It was designed to be concealed, often disguised as a cigarette pack or clipped like a pen, for covert operations and assassinations.

How did the OSS Stinger fire?

The Stinger fired using a single-shot, striker-fired mechanism. To operate, the user would lift, pull back, and press down the pocket clip, which released a spring-loaded firing pin to strike a .22 Short cartridge.

What were the main differences between the T1 and T2 OSS Stingers?

The primary difference was structural reinforcement. The T2 model featured a substantially thicker and reinforced breech to prevent the dangerous barrel bursts that plagued the earlier T1 models, addressing significant reliability issues.

Were the OSS Stingers reliable?

No, the early T1 models suffered from significant reliability issues, including a reported 6% misfire rate due to weak springs, striker release problems, and dangerous barrel failures. The T2 model aimed to rectify these issues with a reinforced design.

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