Polish wz.28 BAR: Shooting, History, Disassembly

Published on March 8, 2016
Duration: 23:52

The Polish wz.28 BAR, a rare FN-modified variant of the Browning Automatic Rifle, was adopted by Poland after winning trials against other LMGs. Despite initial licensing issues with FN and Colt, Poland reverse-engineered the design, producing over 21,000 units in 8mm Mauser. The rifle features unique elements like a pistol grip, 'mermaid tail' stock, and effective dust covers, and holds historical significance as potentially firing the first shots of WWII.

Quick Summary

The Polish wz.28 BAR is a rare FN-modified variant of the Browning Automatic Rifle, chambered in 8mm Mauser. It features a pistol grip, 'mermaid tail' stock, and dust covers. Poland produced over 21,000 units after reverse-engineering the design, and it may have fired the first shots of WWII.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction & Shooting the wz.28 BAR
  2. 00:15BAR Licensing & FN's Role
  3. 01:59Polish Procurement Trials
  4. 03:48FN Contract & Technical Data Issues
  5. 07:29Polish Reverse Engineering & Production
  6. 09:41Design Features & WWII History
  7. 12:49Field Stripping & Disassembly
  8. 20:03Range Performance & Conclusion

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the Polish wz.28 BAR a rare variant?

The Polish wz.28 BAR is rare because it's a specific FN-modified version of the Browning Automatic Rifle, adopted by Poland and produced in 8mm Mauser. Only about 21,000 were made, with significant Polish reverse-engineering involved.

What were the key design differences in the Polish wz.28 BAR compared to the original BAR?

FN's modifications for the wz.28 BAR included a pistol grip and an improved bipod. Poland also added a distinctive 'mermaid tail' stock and effective dust covers, chambering it in 8mm Mauser.

What is the historical significance of the Polish wz.28 BAR?

The wz.28 BAR holds significant historical importance as it is believed to have fired the first shots of World War II in Europe during the defense of the Polish enclave in Gdansk in September 1939.

How did Poland acquire the wz.28 BAR?

Poland acquired the wz.28 BAR after it won military trials in 1924. They initially contracted with FN for production and technical data, but later reverse-engineered the design due to FN's delays.

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