The R1 was a Japanese prototype assault rifle that was developed by the Howa Machinery Company.
History[]
The R1 was the first of a series of experimental assault rifles developed at Howa after the Japanese government commissioned the company to develop a domestically-designed assault rifle for the then newly-established Japanese Self Defense Forces. The project was initiated in October 1957 and the first prototype was completed in April 1958. It was followed shortly afterward by an R2 variant. Both models underwent brief tests in mid-1958 and incorporated some minor design changes during this period. At the end of the year, they were submitted to official JSDF trials and were subjected to rigorous testing, with feedback being provided to Howa.
The R1 and R2 rifles were not intended for military adoption; rather, they were proof-of-concept designs that were produced by Howa in order to develop the company's knowledge of the design and manufacture of reliable assault rifles. They were succeeded by the R3 prototype.
Design[]
The R1 and R2 were gas-operated, selective-fire assault rifles chambered for the 7.62×51mm cartridge. The design was largely derived from the American ArmaLite AR-10 with the direct gas impingement system replaced by a conventional gas piston. The cocking slot was located along the top of the receiver, underneath the carrying handle.
References[]
- The World's Assault Rifles, Nelson & Musgrave, 1963
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