Slow Motion: .303 Lewis Gun

Published on December 31, 2014
Duration: 1:11

This expert-level overview of the .303 Lewis Gun, presented by Forgotten Weapons, details its unique operational mechanics. The video highlights the rotating bolt, open-bolt firing, and the innovative clockwork-like mainspring system. It also touches upon the gun's historical significance and its influence on later designs like the German FG 42.

Quick Summary

The .303 Lewis Gun, designed by Isaac Newton Lewis, features a 47-round pan magazine and a unique rotating bolt firing from an open bolt. Its mainspring mechanism, located forward of the trigger guard, operates like clockwork, driving the bolt carrier via a rack-and-pinion system. This influential design inspired the German FG 42.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Lewis Gun Introduction & History
  2. 00:14Specifications & Caliber
  3. 00:20Unique Mainspring Mechanism
  4. 00:37Firing Mechanism Details
  5. 00:50Historical Influence & Conclusion

Frequently Asked Questions

What caliber is the Lewis Gun shown in the video?

The Lewis Gun featured in the video is chambered in the .303 caliber. It is equipped with a 47-round pan magazine, a distinctive feature of this World War I-era light machine gun.

How does the Lewis Gun's mainspring mechanism work?

The Lewis Gun has a unique mainspring located in front of the trigger guard. It operates similarly to a clockwork mechanism, wound with a gear, and provides the motive force for the bolt carrier's movement via a rack-and-pinion system.

What historical firearm did the Lewis Gun inspire?

The design and operational principles of the Lewis Gun directly inspired the German FG 42, a selective-fire rifle developed and used by German paratroopers during World War II.

What type of bolt does the Lewis Gun use?

The Lewis Gun utilizes a rotating bolt system and fires from an open bolt. This can be observed in slow-motion footage, where the bolt's rotation during cycling is clearly visible.

More Tactical & Gear Videos You Might Like

More from Forgotten Weapons

View all →