Streetsweeper Shotgun

Published on November 10, 2013
Duration: 8:54

This expert review from Forgotten Weapons, featuring Ian McCollum, provides a critical look at the Streetsweeper 12ga shotgun. It details its historical origins in Rhodesia and South Africa, its US-produced variant, and its classification as an NFA 'Destructive Device' in the United States. The guide highlights the unique double-action revolver-style operation, the fixed 12-round drum magazine, and the manual unloading process. The assessment concludes that the Streetsweeper, despite its visual appeal, suffers from practical limitations like slow loading and unpleasant firing characteristics, making it more of a novelty than a functional firearm.

Quick Summary

The Streetsweeper is a 12-gauge shotgun known for its 12-round drum magazine and NFA 'Destructive Device' classification in the US. It operates like a double-action revolver, requiring manual winding and slow loading. Its practical utility is limited by its cumbersome operation and firing characteristics, making it more of a collector's item or novelty.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to Streetsweeper
  2. 00:19History and Origins
  3. 00:52NFA Classification
  4. 02:08Design and Capacity
  5. 02:38Mechanical Operation
  6. 04:23Physical Features
  7. 05:07Loading and Firing
  8. 07:18Unloading and Conclusion

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Streetsweeper shotgun and why is it notable?

The Streetsweeper is a 12-gauge shotgun originally designed in Rhodesia and later produced in the US. It's notable for its 12-round drum magazine and its classification by the ATF as a 'Destructive Device' under the NFA due to its bore size and lack of sporting purpose.

How does the Streetsweeper shotgun operate?

The Streetsweeper functions similarly to a double-action revolver. It uses a winding key on the drum to tension a spring, and pulling the trigger rotates the drum and fires the weapon. Reloading is slow and manual.

What are the practical limitations of the Streetsweeper shotgun?

The Streetsweeper has significant practical limitations, including a slow and manual loading process through a rear port, potential gas leakage from the cylinder gap during firing, and a cumbersome manual unloading procedure using an ejector rod.

Is the Streetsweeper shotgun legally available?

In the United States, the Streetsweeper is classified as a 'Destructive Device' under the NFA. Acquiring one requires registration, a $200 tax stamp, and adherence to all federal regulations, making it a highly restricted firearm.

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