1919 A4 Forums banner
Cancel
Create thread New Forums

American 180 drum loader

Tags
am180 loader
Jump to Latest
41 - 60 of 99 Posts
#41 ·
I just found this thread. I got my 180 back in the 90's and can tell ya, your going to be hard pressed to make the barrel not work. I wore out the factory fingers n block and the barrel still looks pretty good. Please test it with the old "Val approved" Federal 22 HP! I still have more than few cases of the stuff laying around and don't take out the 180 much any more as even with his loading tray and stand, it still really sucks to load. Also yes I'll buy one and if you can make it EZ to clean with carb cleaner like I use on the gun at the range.........BIG PLUS! I made a few automated belt loaders way back when but it pales in comparison to this. Pretty damn cool!!
HTH
BAinMO
 
#44 ·
Very nice and I am all in. Have you tried it with the aluminum bases, I would think it would be fine? Also to me we are just treating the symptoms. A better drum or feed would be best. I have started scratching out some of my thoughts around 1. How to make a drum easier to load, 2. A drum that will prevent ammo from getting jams, ie crossed up in the columns and 3. A winder that is maybe digital and will always maintain a torque that will keep even pressure and not cause jams from winding it up so much for a 5 layer drum.
 
Discussion starter · #45 ·
I have been busy with everything else in life the last few weeks, so no time for the loader. I had a feeling this was likely to happen and this should start easing up in the next week or 2.

The next step is updating the base (orange/yellow bit in the early vid) and enclosing/repositioning the electronics.

@bayoutank In my own experience found it more reliable to wind the spring on an empty drum while on the gun ( ensure the gun is clear) then apply the clutch. Move the wound spring to the loaded drum.
 
#46 ·
Mr.Happy said:
I have been busy with everything else in life the last few weeks, so no time for the loader. I had a feeling this was likely to happen and this should start easing up in the next week or 2.

The next step is updating the base (orange/yellow bit in the early vid) and enclosing/repositioning the electronics.

@bayoutank In my own experience found it more reliable to wind the spring on an empty drum while on the gun ( ensure the gun is clear) then apply the clutch. Move the wound spring to the loaded drum.
Click to expand...
Totally understand, thanks I will try the wind on an empty drum technic.
 
Discussion starter · #48 ·
Thoughts on a custom storge/transport box for the loader?
After taking the loader to the range many times the idea for a storge/transport box is very appealing. Well at least to myself.

Initially was thinking the box would be some sort of modern Pelican type case with custom foam inserts however a wooden box built in the style of the Browing/Maxim MG belt loaders just feels classier since the AM180 has the looks of the Tommy gun.

The Box would be an optional item with the loader.

So, what are your thoughts?
 
Discussion starter · #52 ·
Took the loader to a MG shoot this past weekend and it was sandwiched between a Barret 50 cal, 20mm cannon and a Vickers on the other side. Had several instances of leaves being muzzle blasted into the hopper creating jams and a few other misfeeds as well. Had more reliability issues with the AM 180 than the loader. I wasn't sure how well it would behave in such a concussive environment on a wobbly table, overall no complaints.

Current goal is to have the design finalized and ready to sell by the end of year
 
Discussion starter · #55 ·
Quick update
Finalizing the production design (cleaning up all the hacks and work arounds) with printing underway using the final materials. The 3 largest parts take a combined 38 hours to print plus whatever all the smaller parts 2-3 hour parts take. Just the total print time is likely over 50 hours per unit. Expect to start testing this pre-production unit with in the next week. Plan to post a video on this version soon.

After I am happy with all the above will start a waiting list thread here. ETA is late December.

Happy Thanksgiving!
 
41 - 60 of 99 Posts
About this Discussion
98 Replies
34 Participants
Last post:
Mr.Happy
1919 A4 Forums
posts
590K
members
13K
Since
2006
A forum community dedicated to Browning 1919 A4 firearm owners and enthusiasts. Come join the discussion about performance, gunsmithing, restoration, troubleshooting, reviews, accessories, classifieds, and more!
Full Forum Listing
Explore Our Forums
Off Topic Lounge General Member Classifieds Semi 1919a4 Building 1919a4 Related Classifieds Miscellaneous Firearms