Shooting a Solothurn S18/1000

Published on December 14, 2014
Duration: 0:52

This entry details the operation of the Solothurn S18/1000, a 20mm anti-tank rifle, as demonstrated by Ian McCollum on Forgotten Weapons. The video highlights the rifle's recoil-operated mechanism and the manual cycling process using a distinctive crank handle. Despite its large caliber, McCollum notes the recoil is manageable.

Quick Summary

The Solothurn S18/1000 is a 20mm recoil-operated anti-tank rifle demonstrated by Ian McCollum. Its operation involves manually cycling the heavy bolt assembly using a distinctive side-mounted crank handle. Despite its large caliber (20x138mmB), the felt recoil is noted as surprisingly manageable.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to Solothurn S18/1000
  2. 00:05Live Fire and Recoil Assessment
  3. 00:15Operating Mechanism Explained
  4. 00:30Manual Cycling Demonstration

Frequently Asked Questions

How is the Solothurn S18/1000 operated?

The Solothurn S18/1000 is a recoil-operated firearm. Its action is manually cycled using a large, side-mounted crank handle to move the heavy bolt assembly, a necessary step due to the immense power of the 20mm round.

What caliber is the Solothurn S18/1000?

The Solothurn S18/1000 fires the 20x138mmB cartridge. This is a substantial caliber, historically used in anti-tank rifles and anti-aircraft roles, contributing to the weapon's significant size and weight.

Is the recoil of the Solothurn S18/1000 manageable?

According to Ian McCollum, the recoil from firing the 20mm Solothurn S18/1000 is not as severe as one might expect given the weapon's caliber and size. Its recoil-operated system helps mitigate felt recoil.

What is unique about the Solothurn S18/1000's mechanism?

A key feature is its recoil-operated system, which requires manual cycling of the bolt via a prominent crank handle. This contrasts with many modern firearms that use gas-operation, and is essential for managing the energy of the 20mm round.

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