The silenced, concealable stripped back Welrod, with weapons and firearms expert, Jonathan Ferguson

Published on June 15, 2022
Duration: 12:52

This entry details the Sleeve Gun, a rare WWII silenced pistol designed by Major Hugh Reeves and manufactured by BSA. It highlights its unique single-shot, bolt-action mechanism, integral suppressor with rubber wipes for sound reduction, and its origins with the Special Operations Executive (SOE) at Station 9. The information is presented with high authority by Jonathan Ferguson, Keeper of Firearms & Artillery at the Royal Armouries.

Quick Summary

The Sleeve Gun is a rare, single-shot, bolt-action pistol from WWII, designed by Major Hugh Reeves and manufactured by BSA. It features an integral suppressor with seven chambers and rubber wipes for significant sound reduction, originating from the Special Operations Executive (SOE) Station 9.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to the Welrod
  2. 00:49The Sleeve Gun and SOE Origins
  3. 01:45Design and Variants
  4. 02:41Suppressor Design
  5. 04:12Internal Firing Mechanism
  6. 09:14Production and Legacy

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Sleeve Gun and who designed it?

The Sleeve Gun is a rare, single-shot, bolt-action pistol developed during WWII by Major Hugh Reeves. It was designed for covert operations and features an integral suppressor.

What was the role of Station 9 in relation to the Sleeve Gun?

Station 9, located at 'The Frythe' in Welwyn Garden City, was a facility for the Special Operations Executive (SOE) during WWII. Weapons like the Sleeve Gun were developed and potentially tested there for clandestine missions.

How does the Sleeve Gun's suppressor work?

The Sleeve Gun's integral suppressor contains seven expansion chambers with rubber wipes. These wipes seal the muzzle and breech, maximizing sound reduction by trapping expanding gases as the bullet passes through.

Who manufactured the Sleeve Gun?

The Sleeve Gun was manufactured by BSA (Birmingham Small Arms Company), a prominent British arms manufacturer. Approximately 150-200 units were produced.

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