Scotland's Only WW2 Military Firearm: Albion Motors No2 MkI** Revolver

Published on November 16, 2022
Duration: 20:56

This review of the Albion Motors No2 MkI** revolver, presented by Ian McCollum of Forgotten Weapons, details its development as a British military sidearm post-WWI. It highlights the shift from .455 Webley to the .38/200 caliber for easier training, the wartime production by civilian manufacturers like Albion Motors, and the design evolution including the removal of the hammer block safety for simplified production. The video also covers cartridge specifics, production numbers, and the revolver's service life.

Quick Summary

The Albion No2 MkI** revolver, Scotland's only WW2 military firearm, fires the .38/200 cartridge. Developed for easier training than the .455 Webley, this DAO sidearm was simplified for wartime production, notably omitting a hammer block safety. Manufactured by Albion Motors, it features a top-break action and distinctive anti-snag flanges.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to Albion No2 MkI**
  2. 00:35Post-WWI Sidearm Requirements
  3. 02:00Albion Motors Contract
  4. 03:45The .38/200 Cartridge
  5. 05:27Evolution of the No2 Design
  6. 09:40Grip and Ergonomic Changes
  7. 11:29Albion Markings and Production
  8. 13:26Production Numbers
  9. 17:02Mechanical Features
  10. 18:06Service Life and Final Assessment

Frequently Asked Questions

What caliber is the Albion No2 MkI** revolver?

The Albion No2 MkI** revolver fires the .38/200 cartridge, which is dimensionally the same as the .38 Smith & Wesson. The original load featured a 200-grain lead bullet, later changed to a 176-grain jacketed bullet.

Who manufactured the Albion No2 MkI** revolver?

While the No2 revolver was developed by Webley & Scott and the Royal Small Arms Factory Enfield, the specific Albion No2 MkI** models discussed were produced by Albion Motors of Scotstoun, Scotland, primarily a vehicle manufacturer, during World War II.

What are the key design features of the Albion No2 MkI**?

The Albion No2 MkI** is a Double Action Only (DAO) revolver with a heavy trigger pull (11-13 lbs). It features a top-break, auto-ejecting mechanism and lacks a hammer block safety, a wartime simplification for faster production. It also has distinctive flanges to prevent holster snagging.

Why did the British military adopt the .38/200 caliber?

After WWI, the British military sought a smaller, lighter sidearm easier to train new recruits with than the heavy .455 Webley. The .38 caliber revolver was adopted to simplify training and reduce recoil, making it more manageable for a larger, less experienced army.

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