The story of Rock-Ola Manufacturing Corporation and its role in producing the M1 Carbine during World War II is one of the most unexpected yet fascinating chapters in American industrial history. Best known for its iconic jukeboxes, Rock-Ola was one of ten companies contracted to manufacture the M1 Carbine, the lightweight, semi-automatic rifle that became...
Category: Rifle/Long Guns
Fusil Gras: Historical Evolution
The Fusil Gras Modèle 1874 was a landmark firearm in the history of the French military, representing a crucial step in the transition from paper-cartridge, needle-fire rifles to modern metallic-cartridge bolt-action designs. Its development was driven by the lessons of the Franco-Prussian War (1870-1871), during which the shortcomings of the Chassepot Model 1866 became evident....
The Legacy of L.C. Smith Shotguns: History, Innovation, and Impact
The L.C. Smith Shotgun Company, later owned by Hunter Arms Company and Marlin Firearms, is one of the most respected names in American shotgun manufacturing. Known for its high-quality side-by-side shotguns, the brand is synonymous with craftsmanship, innovation, and reliability. L.C. Smith shotguns were favored by hunters, sport shooters, and collectors and remain highly sought...
The Japanese Arisaka Type 99: A Comprehensive Collector's Guide
The Arisaka Type 99 rifle stands as one of the most significant military bolt-action rifles of the Second World War, representing the peak of Japanese infantry firearm development. Developed as a successor to the Type 38 rifle, the Type 99 was engineered to improve upon its predecessor’s shortcomings, particularly in terms of firepower and ballistic...