This article relies largely or entirely on a single source. (June 2010) |
The Howell automatic rifle is a semi-automatic conversion of the Lee–Enfield rifle.[1] The weapon was reliable, with the gas piston on the right side of the gun but not ergonomic for the user, as the force of the recoiling bolt interfered with handling and because the gun was dramatic when fired. Similar conversions were the South African Rieder and Charlton of New Zealand origin, both of which had full automatic capability. During early World War II when supplies were low, some Howell rifles were issued to the Home Guard.
| Howell semi-automatic rifle | |
|---|---|
| Type | Semi-automatic rifle |
| Place of origin | United Kingdom |
| Service history | |
| Used by | United Kingdom |
| Wars | World War I World War II |
| Production history | |
| Produced | 1915 |
| Specifications | |
| Cartridge | .303 British |
| Action | Gas-operation |
| Feed system | 10 / 20 round box magazine |
| Sights | Iron |
See also
editReferences
edit- ^ Special Service Lee Enfields: Commando and Auto Models by Ian Skennerton. Published by Ian D Skennerton, PO Box 80, Labrador 4215, Australia, 2001. ISBN 0-949749-37-0. Paperback, 48 pp, 50 plus b & w drawings and photos, 210 × 274 mm
