Shansei .45ACP Broomhandle

Published on February 11, 2015
Duration: 5:04

This expert-level entry details the Shansei .45 ACP Broomhandle, a rare Chinese variant of the Mauser C96. The video, presented by Ian McCollum of Forgotten Weapons, highlights its unique .45 ACP chambering, likely influenced by Thompson submachine gun popularity and arms embargoes in China. It covers the firearm's mechanical operation, including its short recoil system and stripper clip feed, and contrasts its significantly wider frame with the standard German Mauser C96. The assessment notes a front-heavy balance due to the caliber conversion.

Quick Summary

The Shansei .45 ACP Broomhandle is a rare Chinese variant of the Mauser C96, produced from 1929-1932. It features a unique .45 ACP chambering, likely due to Thompson submachine gun popularity and arms embargoes. Mechanically, it uses a short recoil action and stripper clip feed, with a noticeably wider frame and front-heavy balance compared to the German C96.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Shansei .45ACP Broomhandle
  2. 00:20Overview of the Shansei .45ACP
  3. 00:41Historical Context: .45 ACP Choice
  4. 01:49Auction Item Details & Markings
  5. 02:24Mechanical Operation: Action & Feed
  6. 03:01Comparison with German Mauser
  7. 03:47Handling and Ergonomics
  8. 04:32Conclusion: Rarity & Auction Info

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Shansei .45 ACP Broomhandle?

The Shansei .45 ACP Broomhandle is a rare Chinese variant of the Mauser C96 pistol, produced between 1929 and 1932. It is notable for being chambered in .45 ACP, a departure from the original German models, and features a wider frame to accommodate the larger caliber.

Why was the Shansei Broomhandle chambered in .45 ACP?

The adoption of .45 ACP for the Shansei Broomhandle is believed to be influenced by the popularity of Thompson submachine guns in China during that era. International arms embargoes may have also played a role in encouraging domestic production with available calibers.

How does the Shansei .45 ACP Broomhandle differ mechanically from a standard German Mauser C96?

While sharing the basic Broomhandle design, the Shansei .45 ACP variant utilizes a short recoil action and a 10-round stripper clip feed system. Its most significant mechanical difference is the wider frame required to handle the .45 ACP cartridge, leading to a more front-heavy balance.

Where can one find rare firearms like the Shansei .45 ACP Broomhandle?

Rare firearms such as the Shansei .45 ACP Broomhandle are occasionally available through specialized auction houses. Rock Island Auction is mentioned in the video as a venue where such historical pieces might be found or have been previously sold.

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