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Posted: 7/18/2014 12:13:35 PM EDT
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Was there a purpose to rifles like the Type 38/Type 99, the Swedish Mausers, etc. having the end of the barrel exposed like they are?
Some sort of predilection towards not having a full-length upper handguard? Trying to save a few ounces of weight? Just one of those things that makes me curious. |
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I think, in general, handguards became more prevalent as repeating rifles did. Bayonet fighting was still VERY important to doctrine of the day. Repeaters heated up much more quickly than prior systems and required the guard to prevent burning the rifleman's hand(s) when bayonetting. I suppose guard length depends on the country's doctrine. Minimalist designs like the GEW98 to full coverage like the SMLE Mk III, then everything in between. Some, like the early Berthier carbines, had no guard at all.
This is all my own speculation. |
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