Unit 17: Rifles & Revolvers

Lesson 62: Remington Model 552 Semi-Automatic .22 Rifle 

This is a very popular and versatile weapon as it can fire 3 types of cartridges without changing any major mechanisms or the barrel. It can use .22 short, long or Long rifle cartridges as if they are all the same. This does have the same issue as most and that is lack of care. 

There are other issues that arise, and they can be more involved in diagnosing and repair, and how correcting them may just be adjustments, or some may just be an outright replacement.  

Lesson 63: Barretta Semi-Automatic Shotgun 

An import from Italy, these guns really have not really changed over time. The biggest issue with these are the gas chambers filling up with carbon after use. Most owners do not even attempt to clean these until it starts to malfunction, which can lead to bigger issues if not taken care of sooner.  

Lesson 64: Springfield Model 1903 Rifle 

This is probably the most used design of all rifles per caliber. Originally for military use starting in World War l. There were MANY variations of this made. The 1903-A3 was the one of choice for World War ll and was produced by Remington.  

These weapons were so reliable even the government manual for the military claimed, “Maintenance operations are of a first aid nature.” This design eventually became the .30-06. This became a very popular firearm that was and still is manufactured by nearly all manufacturers. 

Lesson 65: Colt Frame Models “E” and “I” Revolver 

Colts’ long history line is laid out in this lesson. Starting with the 1851 Navy percussion model (which I like a lot and I did know someone who had one of these or at least a replica) he had said it was fun to shoot. The later police and military named models differ slightly but not as much as you would think. Newer versions are easier to use as far as loading and cleaning, but I would prefer the older model. 

Disassembly and reassembly on these are all quite similar as well and repairs do seem on the easier side. Some of the newer versions the only real difference is the barrel length and caliber. All in all, these pistols are what made police and military history.  

Conclusion 

This is also the last lesson for the entire course. Throughout this course I have learned a tremendous amount about firearms, their safety, history, and most of all the ability to repair. I have learned more than I ever expected to. The hands-on projects are perfect but maybe a checkering or swivel install on the refinishing project.  

Overall, I really liked and enjoyed this course. It is informative, hands-on, and very educational. Mix in what I call the mini history lessons throughout the course, and it is a course that will not disappoint you. 

Written by J. Jacobs, The MGS Experience Student