During World War II and Korea, the B.A.R. saw extensive service and this is the time period mostly associated with it. This was the most widely used light machine gun until it was replaced by the M60 and the squad automatic weapon or SAW.
No matter how deeply rooted you are in Firearms Culture, everyone has that one gun that they designate as their favorite. You recognize it in movies, TV shows, video games, and everywhere else is decides to make an appearance. You have plans already laid out to exactly what you want to do with it. You even price the modifications you want to make. Some even go as far as to begin a separate bank account to save up for it. I am no different. There is one gun that brightens my day and instantly puts a smile on my face. It isn't all flashy or fancy, but the history it bears and raw power of this masterpiece can not be surpassed in my opinion. That gun is none other than the M1918, Browning Automatic Rifle. Known to many as the B.A.R. The B.A.R. was designed by legendary firearms inventor John Moses Browning in 1917 for use in Europe during World War I to be an intermediate weapon for advancing infantry troops. It was thought that the best way to advance on an occupying force was to lay down suppressive fire. In theory, the enemy would be pinned down in his current position, allowing for troops to move in and pick off their targets. Needless to say, military doctrine has evolved from this concept. The B.A.R. saw limited action at the tail end of WWI which ended in 1918. It wasn't until 1938 that this weapon became standard issue for the U.S. Army as a portable, light machine gun. During World War II and Korea, the B.A.R. saw extensive service and this is the time period mostly associated with it. This was the most widely used light machine gun until it was replaced by the M60 and the squad automatic weapon or SAW. The B.A.R. came in at just under 16 pounds, 47 inches, and fired the .30-06 Springfield cartridge from a 20 round detachable box magazine at a rate of about 600 rounds per minute. Every man in a company was trained on the weapon just in case the designated rifleman fell in battle. This speaks to the level of necessity that was seen for this weapon. The M1918 was initially manned by a 3 person crew. One gunner and 2 men carrying the ammunition. Later, this was reduced to a single man carrying the load. Attempts to lighten and modify the weapon, to improve function and efficiency after its initial development, lead to a few more variation later being issued. Outside of the military, the B.A.R. gained favor with many civilians, most notably the gangsters of the day and later law enforcement. A chopped down version of it was known to be the go to gun of notorious mobster Clyde Barrow. The stock was cut down as well as the barrel to make it more concealable. This iconic firearm has also made cameos in countless films, television series, and video games. From Pearl Harbor to Saving Private Ryan to King Kong to Gangster Squad, the B.A.R. can be seen all across the silver screen. Television series such as The A-Team, Band of Brothers, and Bonnie and Clyde have also kept this rifle in the minds of millions. I dare you to pick up Call of Duty, Medal of Honor, or Brothers in Arms and try not to see one. It can't be done. In today's market, this weapon still holds a special place in the heart of collectors and history buffs alike. Surplus WWII B.A.R.'s carry a price tag of well over $10,000 and have been know to go for upwards of $45,000. Until I hit the lotto or find a screw in my Pringles can, these pictures are as close as i will get. But a man can dream, right?
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AuthorKeep in mind that I am by no means a gun expert. I have had some safety, handling, and shooting training, but nowhere near the amount I feel is needed to claim the "expert" title. With that being said, I am a man that owns a LOT of firearms, knives, and gear! I have been shooting since I could hold a rifle and have even competed in and won a few competitions. The advice and tips that I give are based on personal experience, but are by no means to be taken as law. Please consult a trained, certified professional for all your firearms needs. Enjoy! Archives
May 2016
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