ARTV Preview: History of the M1 Carbine; Springfield XD-M Elite; Smith & Wesson Model 1917

by
posted on July 8, 2020
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
In this week's episode of American Rifleman TV, we take an in-depth look at the most produced U.S. military arm of World War II, the M1 Carbine, as well as modern new-production models. Tested this week is one of the latest options in the Springfield XD line—the XD-M Elite in 9 mm Luger. During World War I, the Smith & Wesson Second Model Hand Ejector became the U.S. Model 1917 revolver chambered in .45 ACP, and we cover the history of this unique military revolver in "I Have This Old Gun."

The development of what would become the M1 Carbine is one of the most fascinating stories in the history of firearm design, and it certainly is made more colorful by the legends surrounding one of the gun's designers: David Marshall Williams, also known as "Carbine" Williams.

Springfield Armory continues to build out its popular lineup of XD handguns, and one of the latest pistols to hit the scene in 2020 is the company's XD-M Elite offering. We took this pistol to the range to see what made it a standout option in the company's lineup and where the "Elite" comes into play.

When the United States entered World War I, its official sidearm was the Model 1911. However, there weren't enough 1911s to equip the expeditionary force heading to France, and they needed more guns made quickly. So, the War Department headed to Smith & Wesson, and the U.S. Model 1917 revolver was born.

To watch complete segments of past episodes of American Rifleman TV, go to americanrifleman.org/artv. For all-new episodes of ARTV, tune in Wednesday nights to Outdoor Channel 8:30 p.m. and 11:30 p.m. EST.

Latest

Discontinued Models Walther Ppk F
Discontinued Models Walther Ppk F

Too Late: The Perils Of Waiting To Buy That One Gun

Gunmakers are often quiet when they discontinue a gun model. We’ve all felt the pain of suddenly discovering a firearm we’d love to own that is no longer available.

Preview: DA Targets Half-Size Silhouette Color-Changing Target

Replacing targets, time and time again, can be costly and time-consuming, which is where this U.S.-made product from DA Targets comes into play.

Return Of The Red Label: Ruger's New Red Label III Shotgun

Ruger's Red Label III marks the third generation of Ruger's classic over-under shotgun, which is finally making a reappearance after it was discontinued more than a decade ago.

Preview: GPS Bags Shotgun Shell Tote

Range visits are often more enjoyable with well-organized equipment, which is where GPS Bags comes into play with its Shotgun Shell Tote.

Gun Of The Week: Wilson Combat NULA Model 20

In our latest "Gun Of The Week" segment, we’re taking a closer look at Wilson Combat’s NULA Model 20, a lightweight, bolt-action hunting rifle that incorporates innovations first pioneered by the “rifle wizard of West Virginia."

The Armed Citizen® Jan. 2, 2026

Read today's "The Armed Citizen" entry for real stories of law-abiding citizens, past and present, who used their firearms to save lives.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.