Striker 12: Shotgun Turned "Destructive Device"

Published on October 3, 2019
Duration: 13:33

The Striker 12 is a 12-round, 12-gauge shotgun designed by Hilton Walker in Rhodesia. Its unique spring-wound rotary drum and auto-ejection system were innovative for its time. In the US, it was classified as a 'Destructive Device' under the NFA due to its bore size and perceived lack of sporting purpose, making it a rare and highly regulated collector's item.

Quick Summary

The Striker 12 shotgun is classified as a 'Destructive Device' in the US under the NFA due to its bore size exceeding 0.50 inches and lack of recognized sporting purpose. Designed by Hilton Walker, it features a 12-round rotary drum and an auto-ejection system.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction & Legal Status
  2. 00:45History & Development
  3. 01:30Design Philosophy
  4. 02:50Auto-Ejection Mechanism
  5. 03:55Law Enforcement & Protecta
  6. 05:18Production & US Export
  7. 06:47Controls & Markings
  8. 08:22Loading & Unloading
  9. 09:22NFA Classification
  10. 11:15Practical Applications

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is the Striker 12 classified as a 'Destructive Device' in the US?

The Striker 12, along with similar firearms like the Street Sweeper and USAS-12, was classified as a 'Destructive Device' by the US Treasury in 1994. This classification is primarily due to its bore size exceeding half an inch and the executive branch's determination that it lacks a recognized sporting purpose under the National Firearms Act.

Who designed the Striker 12 shotgun?

The Striker 12 shotgun was designed by Hilton Walker in Rhodesia during the late 1970s. Production began in 1983, with Walker collaborating with Armsel for financing and Aserma Manufacturing for the actual construction of the weapons.

What is the capacity and action type of the Striker 12?

The Striker 12 features a 12-round capacity utilizing a rotary drum magazine. Its unique action is spring-wound, where a clock spring mechanism rotates the drum, distinct from traditional revolver or semi-automatic actions.

What was the purpose of the auto-ejection system on the Striker 12?

The auto-ejection system on the Striker 12 was designed to speed up reloading. Gas tapped from the barrel is used to eject the spent shell casing as the rotary drum indexes to the next chamber after a shot is fired.

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