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

TC Triumph 01
TC Triumph 01

T/C Rebirth: Thompson/Center Brings Back The Triumph Muzzleloader

Thompson/Center Arms has reintroduced its famous Triumph muzzleloader, an in-line design that uses 209 shotgun primers and is designed for easy cleaning and loading.

Preview: Competition Electronics ProChrono LTD

A more economical alternative to Competition Electronics’ Bluetooth-enabled DLX model, the ProChrono LTD is a ballistic chronograph ...

Gun Of The Week: FN 15 Guardian

We’re on the range with the FN 15 Guardian, an AR-15 that gives people a rock-solid rifle with quality components at an affordable price.

The Armed Citizen® Oct. 24, 2025

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

LEO Trade-Ins: The Sleeper Surplus Market

Although much of the budget-priced military surplus market has dried up, there are still affordable options among the long guns and handguns retired from law enforcement service.

Henry Repeating Arms Expands Spirit of the Corps Rifle Series

After much demand, Henry Repeating Arms is back with two attention-getting lever guns in honor of the U.S. Marine Corps and its 250 years safeguarding the globe.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.