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

Magpul Hunter Lite Stock
Magpul Hunter Lite Stock

New for 2026: New Products from Magpul

Magpul announces new metal-magazines, new stocks and pistol frames.

New for 2026: Burris Veracity Riflescopes

The latest generation of Veracity scopes is available in a variety of 5X magnification ranges.

New for 2026: Springfield Armory 10-8 Performance Master Class 1911 Pistols

Springfield Armory and Lipseys have partnered to offer a highly custom 1911 with input from Hilton Yam.

New For 2026: Diamondback SDR-A

Following the release of its Self-Defense Revolver in 2024, Diamondback Firearms has now lightened its design and reduced the cost with the new-for-2026 SDR-A.

Rifleman Review: Walther Arms PDP F-Series 4-Inch

Walther Arms continues to expand its F-Series handgun line, a design initially developed for women but that has broad appeal across the firearm consumer market, thanks to its unique design elements and feature set.

Mossberg Expands Budget-Priced Maverick Line With Semi-Auto Model

As part of its International family of shotguns, Mossberg announced the introduction of the Maverick SA Semi-Auto, a versatile, value-focused semi-automatic platform built to deliver reliable performance.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.