Powell's Cartridge Counter Luger: The First Military 9mm

Published on November 10, 2019
Duration: 12:26

This entry details the unique Powell Cartridge Counter Luger, a variant tested by the US military. It focuses on the operation of its innovative grip-mounted cartridge counter, which relies on a specialized magazine and follower system. The historical context of its development and US trials is also highlighted, noting its significance as an early attempt at a 9mm military pistol for the United States.

Quick Summary

The Powell Cartridge Counter Luger was a significant early 9mm pistol tested by the US military. Its innovative feature was a grip-mounted cartridge counter, requiring a specialized magazine and follower, visible through a celluloid window. Despite its advanced design, the US military ultimately favored .45 caliber, adopting the M1911.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to Powell Cartridge Counter Luger
  2. 00:37Early US Luger Testing
  3. 02:58The Powell Grip Design
  4. 04:15Mechanical Details of the Counter
  5. 05:07Specialized Magazine and Follower
  6. 06:52Markings and Serial Ranges
  7. 08:49Trial Results and Caliber Shift
  8. 10:47Provenance and Survival

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Powell Cartridge Counter Luger?

The Powell Cartridge Counter Luger is a rare variant of the Luger pistol featuring a unique grip-mounted mechanism designed to indicate the number of rounds remaining in the magazine. It was tested by the US military in the early 1900s.

How does the cartridge counter on the Luger work?

The counter uses a specialized magazine with a follower that has an attached screw. This screw interacts with a numbered indicator visible through a celluloid window on the grip panel, showing rounds 1 through 7.

Why did the US military not adopt the 9mm Luger?

Despite testing the 9mm Luger, the US military concluded through the Thompson-LaGarde tests in 1905 that a minimum of .45 caliber was necessary for a service handgun, ultimately leading to the adoption of the M1911.

What are the key markings on a Powell Cartridge Counter Luger?

Key markings include the DWM logo on the toggle link, a US Eagle crest on the receiver chamber, and specific serial numbers within the 22401-22450 range. Early 9mm variants often feature a 'fat barrel'.

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