Pancor Jackhammer Mk3

Published on April 26, 2021
Duration: 8:23

This expert-level overview from Ian McCollum of Forgotten Weapons details the rare Pancor Jackhammer Mk3 prototype. It covers the shotgun's development history, the reasons for its project failure, and its unique mechanical features, including a gas-operated blow-forward system and a distinctive revolving drum magazine. The analysis highlights the prototype's non-functional status and its historical significance as a legendary 'forgotten weapon'.

Quick Summary

The Pancor Jackhammer Mk3 is a rare, non-functional prototype of a full-auto combat shotgun, legally registered as a machine gun. It features a unique gas-operated blow-forward system where the barrel cycles forward, and a revolving drum magazine. The project failed due to funding issues and export restrictions.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to the Pancor Jackhammer Mk3
  2. 00:43Development History
  3. 01:37Project Failure and Export Restrictions
  4. 02:24Prototype Status
  5. 03:13Design Improvements
  6. 03:52Mechanical Operation
  7. 04:55Non-Functional Details
  8. 06:11Controls and Weight
  9. 07:11Provenance and Conclusion

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Pancor Jackhammer Mk3?

The Pancor Jackhammer Mk3 is a rare, pre-production prototype of a full-auto combat shotgun developed by John Anderson. This specific unit is non-functional but legally registered as a machine gun under NFA regulations.

What is the operating system of the Pancor Jackhammer?

The Pancor Jackhammer utilizes a unique gas-operated blow-forward system. In this mechanism, the barrel cycles forward during the firing sequence, a complex design intended for efficient full-automatic operation.

Why did the Pancor Jackhammer project fail?

The Pancor Jackhammer project ultimately failed due to a critical lack of funding required for tooling and further development. Additionally, U.S. government restrictions on exporting the technology significantly hampered its commercial viability.

What are some notable design features of the Pancor Jackhammer Mk3 prototype?

The Mk3 prototype features a solid aluminum top rail for improved sturdiness over earlier designs. It also incorporates a distinctive revolving drum magazine with external indexing grooves and a pump handle that serves as the charging handle.

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