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

Smith & Wesson Model 386 Night Guard
Smith & Wesson Model 386 Night Guard

Review: Smith & Wesson Model 386 Night Guard

Lipsey’s has teamed up with Smith & Wesson to revive a pair of short-lived, but highly sought after, Night Guard revolvers. The K-frame options include the Model 386, a seven-shot design chambered in .357 Mag.

Standing Guard | We Need to Stand Tall Together

In the short time I have been in this position—humbled and honored to be serving you and our cause—I have focused on streamlining our programs and services, refocusing our efforts on our competitions and other events, and committing resources to the many legal and legislative fights we are in to defend and, where necessary, to win back our Second Amendment-protected freedom.

B&T USA Expands Manufacturing Operations in Utah

B&T USA's Utah location now handles product design and development, 3D-printing, machining, Cerakoting, engraving and shipping, and it boasts a production capacity of 7,000 suppressors a month.

PenFed Reports Strong Second-Quarter Performance

Building on the company's impressive first-quarter results for 2026, PenFed Credit Union, one of the nation's largest credit unions, reported strong financial results through the second quarter of 2026.

The NSCA Sporting Clays National Championship

Every fall, the National Sporting Clays Association holds its national championship at The National Shooting Complex in San Antonio, Texas, and thousands of sporting clays shooters from across the world come to compete for titles.

Rifleman Interview: Smith & Wesson Model 617 Mountain Gun

Smith & Wesson and Lipseys brought a special .22 LR revolver to the Plinkapalooza event in May.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.