WF Bern C42 & E22: Stgw90 Trials Rifles to Compete With SIG

Published on December 24, 2018
Duration: 19:09

This video examines the W+F Bern C42 and E22 prototype rifles, which competed against SIG in the trials for the Swiss Army's Stgw 90. Despite innovative features like quick-detach barrels and modularity, these rifles were ultimately rejected due to accuracy issues and design flaws, such as a problematic charging handle. The E22 used a proprietary 6.45mm round, while the C42 chambered the standard 5.56mm NATO.

Quick Summary

The W+F Bern C42 and E22 were prototype rifles submitted for the Swiss Army's Stgw 90 trials. The E22 used a 6.45mm round, and the C42 used 5.56mm NATO. They featured modularity and quick-detach barrels but were rejected due to accuracy issues and design flaws like a loose charging handle.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to W+F Bern Prototypes
  2. 00:40Historical Context: Swiss Army Trials
  3. 01:22Caliber and Variants: E22 vs C42
  4. 02:10Design Philosophy and Shortcomings
  5. 03:02External Features: Stocks, Sights, Bipod
  6. 06:09Markings and Serial Numbers
  7. 06:51Controls: Fire Selector & Magazine Release
  8. 07:35Sighting System Details
  9. 09:26Modularity: Quick-Change Barrel System
  10. 10:32Field Stripping and Design Flaws
  11. 12:41Operating Mechanism: Gas Piston & Rotating Bolt
  12. 15:04Grip Storage and Tools

Frequently Asked Questions

What were the W+F Bern C42 and E22 rifles?

The W+F Bern C42 and E22 were prototype assault rifles developed by Waffenfabrik Bern as competitors in the Swiss Army's trials to replace the Stgw 57. The E22 was chambered in 6.45mm, and the C42 in 5.56mm NATO.

Why were the W+F Bern prototypes rejected for the Stgw 90?

Despite innovative features like quick-detach barrels, the W+F Bern rifles were rejected primarily due to inferior accuracy compared to the SIG competitor. Mechanical issues, such as a charging handle that detached easily during field stripping, also contributed to their failure.

What were the key features of the W+F Bern C42 and E22?

Key features included a modular quick-change barrel system, folding stocks, large trigger guards, a diopter sight system, and a gas-operated rotating bolt mechanism. The E22 also featured an integrated bipod and grenade launcher capability.

What calibers did the W+F Bern C42 and E22 use?

The W+F Bern E22 prototype utilized a proprietary 6.45x48mm GP80 cartridge, while the C42 variant was chambered in the standard 5.56x45mm NATO ammunition.

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