Gartman Bantamweight ad literature

Proof-testing American Rifles


Q: I know that all firearms made in Europe 
and England are proof tested, but also
that no firearm ever made in the U.S.A
has ever been subjected to the same
tests. At least none that I know of. Do
you know of any American firearms that
were proofed?
Harold JanssenA: Funny you should ask me that. But the
only U.S firearm that I know of actually
underwent proof testing was The Gartman
Custom "Bantamweight" back in the 1950s.
The adverts stated "each barrel installed
is proofed at 68,000 to 70,000 psi assuring
the safety of barrel and action." These
ultralight sporters weighed about 3kgs
all-up with scope and mount. The barrels
were skinny and looked to have an integral
brake on the muzzle. But actually the
enlarged section of the barrel was a weight
and not a brake. I believe its purpose was
to dampen barrel vibrations.

 

 

 

 


Like it? Share with your friends!

What's Your Reaction?

super super
16
super
fail fail
10
fail
fun fun
8
fun
bad bad
6
bad
hate hate
4
hate
lol lol
2
lol
love love
20
love
omg omg
16
omg
Nick Harvey

The late Nick Harvey (1931-2024) was one of the world's most experienced and knowledgeable gun writers, a true legend of the business. He wrote about firearms and hunting for about 70 years, published many books and uncounted articles, and travelled the world to hunt and shoot. His reloading manuals are highly sought after, and his knowledge of the subject was unmatched. He was Sporting Shooter's Technical Editor for almost 50 years. His work lives on here as part of his legacy to us all.

0 Comments