The DeLisle: Britain's Silenced .45 ACP Commando Carbine

Published on September 16, 2017
Duration: 13:32

The DeLisle Commando Carbine, a WWII British special forces weapon, was a unique conversion of the SMLE rifle to fire .45 ACP. Developed for covert operations, its design prioritized suppression using a 7.25-inch barrel and a large baffle system, leveraging the subsonic nature of the .45 ACP cartridge. Production was limited, with around 130 units made, and many later saw service in Malaysia.

Quick Summary

The DeLisle Commando Carbine was a WWII British silenced rifle, converting the SMLE to fire .45 ACP for covert operations. Its design leveraged the cartridge's subsonic properties with a 7.25-inch barrel and large suppressor, though only about 130 were produced.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to the DeLisle Carbine
  2. 00:33Origins and Development
  3. 01:35Operational Context and Testing
  4. 02:13Production and Contract Cancellation
  5. 03:06Manufacturing and Service History
  6. 04:06Technical Features of the Prototype
  7. 05:53Suppression System Design
  8. 06:53Production Model Variations
  9. 09:08Muzzle, Sights, and Handguard
  10. 11:29Folding Stock Prototype

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the DeLisle Commando Carbine?

The DeLisle Commando Carbine was a silenced bolt-action rifle developed in Britain during WWII. It was a heavily modified Short Magazine Lee-Enfield (SMLE) rifle converted to fire the .45 ACP cartridge, designed for special forces and covert operations.

Why was the .45 ACP cartridge used in the DeLisle carbine?

The .45 ACP cartridge was chosen for its subsonic properties and relatively low pressure. This made it highly effective for suppression, as it produced less of a sonic crack and was easier to quiet with the carbine's integrated suppressor system.

How many DeLisle carbines were produced?

Production of the DeLisle carbine was limited. Although an initial order was for 500 units, it was later increased to 600. However, only approximately 130 production units were actually manufactured, primarily by Ford and Sterling.

What were the key technical features of the DeLisle carbine?

Key features include a 7.25-inch barrel, a large integrated suppressor with baffles, a modified SMLE action, and the ability to accept 1911 magazines. Some models also had a buffer on the bolt handle to reduce noise.

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