Savage M1918 Aircraft Lewis Gun

Published on April 9, 2021
Duration: 16:01

This guide covers the basic operational aspects of the Savage M1918 Aircraft Lewis Gun, highlighting its unique features for aerial combat. Key differences from ground variants include the spade grip, lack of a cooling shroud, and a larger 97-round pan magazine. The firearm utilizes an open-bolt, gas-operated action and features a specialized muzzle brake for increased rate of fire and a Norman wind vane sight for aerial targeting. Instruction is provided by Ian McCollum, a recognized expert in historical firearms.

Quick Summary

The Savage M1918 Aircraft Lewis Gun, chambered in .30-06 Springfield, was a key WWI aerial armament. It featured a 97-round pan magazine for sustained fire, lacked a cooling shroud due to slipstream cooling, and used a Norman wind vane sight for automatic targeting compensation. Its open-bolt design presented synchronization challenges, often leading to top-wing or flexible mounts.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to Savage M1918 Aircraft Lewis Gun
  2. 00:30Ground vs. Aircraft Configuration Differences
  3. 01:2597-Round Pan Magazine Explained
  4. 01:50Synchronization Challenges with Open Bolt
  5. 04:40Norman Wind Vane Sight Functionality
  6. 06:17Receiver Markings and Caliber Identification
  7. 11:36Muzzle Brake and Rate of Fire Boost
  8. 14:48Production Numbers and Aircraft Usage

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key differences between the Savage M1918 Aircraft Lewis Gun and its ground counterpart?

The M1918 Aircraft Lewis Gun features a spade grip and lacks a cooling shroud, as high flight speeds provide adequate cooling. These modifications were crucial for reducing weight and improving performance on aircraft during WWI.

How did the Norman wind vane sight improve aerial gunnery for the Lewis Gun?

The Norman wind vane sight automatically adjusted the front sight post based on wind resistance, compensating for the aircraft's speed and direction. This mechanical sight enhanced aiming accuracy during aerial engagements.

What caliber was the Savage M1918 Aircraft Lewis Gun chambered in, and why was this significant?

The Savage M1918 Aircraft Lewis Gun was chambered in .30-06 Springfield, marked as '.30-U.S. GOVT.'. This distinguished it from the .303 British versions used by other Allied forces and indicated its specific use by the U.S. military.

What was the purpose of the specialized muzzle brake on the M1918 Lewis Gun?

The specialized muzzle brake/recoil booster on the M1918 model was designed to trap gas, which increased the bolt's cycle speed. This modification effectively raised the rate of fire, making it more effective against fast-moving aerial targets.

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