Forgotten Weapons Short: Stacking Rods & Stacking Swivels

Published on January 4, 2018
Duration: 4:35

This video explains the purpose and use of stacking rods and swivels found on older rifles. These features allow soldiers to create stable tripods with three rifles, keeping them off the ground when encamped. The technique is demonstrated on various historical firearms, including the MAS-36, Swiss K11, Mosin-Nagant, Lee-Enfield, Springfield M1903, and M1 Garand, highlighting how stacking rods and specialized swivels facilitate this practice.

Quick Summary

Rifle stacking rods and swivels on firearms like the MAS-36, M1 Garand, and Springfield allowed soldiers to create stable tripods by connecting three rifles. This kept weapons off the ground when encamped. Stacking swivels, often modified sling swivels with slots, facilitate this by allowing two outer rifles to hook onto a central one.

Chapters

  1. 00:05Introduction to Rifle Stacking
  2. 00:29What are Stacking Rods?
  3. 00:34Purpose of Stacking Rods
  4. 01:28Examples of Stacking Rods
  5. 01:41Cleaning Rods as Stacking Aids
  6. 01:52Stacking Swivels Explained
  7. 02:06Bayonets for Stacking
  8. 02:22Practical Rifle Stacking Demonstration
  9. 03:24US Stacking Swivel System
  10. 03:32How to Use Stacking Swivels
  11. 04:00Disassembling Rifle Stacks
  12. 04:14Conclusion

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the purpose of stacking rods on old rifles?

Stacking rods on older rifles are designed to allow soldiers to connect three rifles together, forming a stable tripod. This practice kept the firearms elevated and out of the dirt when soldiers were encamped or not actively using them.

How do stacking swivels work on firearms?

Stacking swivels are typically modified sling swivels with a slot. Two rifles are attached to the swivel of a third, central rifle. The outer rifles point one way, and the middle rifle points the opposite, creating a self-supporting tripod.

Which firearms are shown with stacking rods or swivels?

The video showcases stacking features on the MAS-36, Swiss K11 carbine, Mosin-Nagant carbine, early Lee-Enfield, American Springfields, M1 Garands, and mentions their use with Lebel and Type 30 Arisaka bayonets.

Is rifle stacking still a common practice today?

Rifle stacking is not common today and largely phased out with bolt-action rifles. While the US military had drills for the M14 and M16, it's now primarily a parade ground activity, though it can be used in practical matches with friends.

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