IMBLITZVT
Ultimate Member
I thought it was cool to get to see two of 3 WWI Automatic rifles at the AGC a few weekends ago.
One is the most manufactured MG of WWI, with total production being around 262,000. The other only 52,000 made during WWI.
If you had to choose one in 1916 or 1917... there would only be one option!
Most Americans don't realize that there is a difference between the 1915 Chauchat pictured here in 8mm Lebel and the 1918 version produced for the AEF which had an undersized chamber leading to lots of jams. So both guns get grouped together rather unfairly. Also most American's don't realize that the guns basic action system was invented by John Browning for the Auto 5 Shotgun and Remington Model 8 rifle. So just remember the next time you hear someone beating up the Chauchat, they are beating up a Browning design.
The Chauchat still has dewat damage right now but I hope to have it running around Christmas time... then we will see then how it stacks up again the BAR.
One is the most manufactured MG of WWI, with total production being around 262,000. The other only 52,000 made during WWI.
If you had to choose one in 1916 or 1917... there would only be one option!
Most Americans don't realize that there is a difference between the 1915 Chauchat pictured here in 8mm Lebel and the 1918 version produced for the AEF which had an undersized chamber leading to lots of jams. So both guns get grouped together rather unfairly. Also most American's don't realize that the guns basic action system was invented by John Browning for the Auto 5 Shotgun and Remington Model 8 rifle. So just remember the next time you hear someone beating up the Chauchat, they are beating up a Browning design.
The Chauchat still has dewat damage right now but I hope to have it running around Christmas time... then we will see then how it stacks up again the BAR.