Why wasn't this Britain's first bullpup service rifle? The EM1 with weapons expert Jonathan Ferguson

Published on October 13, 2021
Duration: 13:29

The Royal Armouries' Jonathan Ferguson details the Thorpe EM1, a 1949 British bullpup rifle designed by Stanley Thorpe. Unlike its competitor, the EM2, the EM1 utilized stamped steel construction influenced by German designs like the Gerat 06. It was chambered for the .280 (7mm) intermediate cartridge and featured a non-magnifying optical sight and a unique bayonet system.

Quick Summary

The Thorpe EM1 was a British bullpup rifle prototype developed in 1949. It featured stamped steel construction, influenced by German designs, and fired the .280 (7mm) intermediate cartridge. Its action was located behind the trigger, allowing for a compact design with a full-length barrel.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: The Thorpe EM1
  2. 00:35What is a Bullpup Rifle?
  3. 01:10Post-WWII British Rifle Development
  4. 02:35EM1 vs. EM2 Competition
  5. 04:02EM1 Technical Construction: Stamped Steel
  6. 04:42Designer: Stanley Thorpe
  7. 06:05Physical Features & Ergonomics
  8. 07:17Bayonet and Grenade Launching System
  9. 10:47Optical Sighting System

Frequently Asked Questions

What made the Thorpe EM1 a bullpup rifle?

The Thorpe EM1 is classified as a bullpup because its action and magazine were located behind the trigger and pistol grip. This design allows for a shorter overall weapon length while maintaining a full-length barrel, improving maneuverability.

What construction method did the Thorpe EM1 use?

The Thorpe EM1 utilized stamped steel construction, influenced by German designs like the Gerat 06. This differed from its contemporary, the EM2, which featured more traditional machined components.

Who designed the Thorpe EM1?

The Thorpe EM1 was designed by Stanley Thorpe, a civilian mechanical engineering draftsman. His contributions to small arms development were later recognized with an OBE.

What caliber was the Thorpe EM1 chambered for?

The Thorpe EM1 was designed to fire the .280 (7mm) intermediate cartridge. This was part of Britain's post-WWII effort to develop an automatic rifle using a reduced-power round.

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