Reifgraber .38 S&W Automatic

Published on April 17, 2016
Duration: 13:20

This expert-level guide details the field stripping process for the rare Reifgraber .38 S&W Automatic Pistol, as demonstrated by Ian McCollum. It covers the removal of the fire control group, barrel, and bolt assembly, highlighting the unique short recoil system with gas assist. The video provides a deep dive into the mechanics of this early 20th-century design.

Quick Summary

The Reifgraber .38 S&W Automatic Pistol features a unique short recoil system enhanced by a gas assist mechanism, venting muzzle gas to aid in cycling the action. Designed by Joseph Joachim Reifgraber and manufactured by Union Arms Company, this rare variant is chambered in .38 S&W Long.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Reifgraber .38 S&W Automatic Pistol
  2. 00:42Manufacturing and Patent History
  3. 02:51Comparison: .32 vs .38 Models
  4. 03:42Field Stripping: Fire Control Group
  5. 04:26Unique Trigger Mechanism Explained
  6. 05:56Barrel and Bolt Disassembly
  7. 06:45Short Recoil Locking System
  8. 08:08Innovative Gas Assist Feature
  9. 09:52Markings and Sight Picture
  10. 11:18Ammunition and Design Philosophy

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the Reifgraber .38 S&W Automatic Pistol unique?

The Reifgraber .38 S&W Automatic Pistol is unique for its innovative short recoil system combined with a gas assist feature. This system uses muzzle gas to help cycle the action, a rare addition for its time, and it's chambered in the less common .38 S&W Long cartridge for an automatic.

How is the Reifgraber .38 S&W Automatic Pistol disassembled?

Disassembly begins with removing the magazine and then extracting the self-contained fire control group from the rear. The rear plug is removed next, allowing the barrel, bolt, and dual recoil springs to slide out.

Who designed the Reifgraber Automatic Pistol?

The Reifgraber Automatic Pistol was designed by Joseph Joachim Reifgraber, an Austrian immigrant to the United States who was born in 1856. He was also known for designing the Union tip-up revolver.

What caliber is the rare Reifgraber Automatic Pistol shown?

The rare version of the Reifgraber Automatic Pistol featured is chambered in .38 S&W Long. While most known examples are in .32 caliber, this specific model highlights the manufacturer's capability to produce it in a larger, rimmed revolver cartridge.

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