Jason M.
Member
I've been daydreaming about different rifle configurations and how they could be improved. Bullpups are the current flavor. Their biggest strength is a longer barrel and therefore higher projectile velocity in a smaller package than a traditional rifle could offer. The negatives I see are:
1. KB factor. When one of these rifles does have a kaboom, it's generally not a good thing to have it happen right next to your face.
2. Magazine changes. Apparently changing the magazine in a traditional bullpup configuration can be ackward.
3. Right to left/left to right problems. A KB right against your cheek is not a good thing. Nor are spent casings slapping you in the head. Accomidating for southpaws is a bit trickier for bullpups.
4. Funky triggers. The trigger mechanism is a relatively long distance from the hammer and sear.
The FN 2000 has forward ejection. This sidesteps problem 3. Their P90 uses downward ejection, if I recall correctly, and has the magazine mounted on top. This appears to solve problem 3 as well, while at the same time possibly worsening problem 2. (Anyone with hands-on experience care to correct me?) Those are the biggest innovations I know of. Admittedly, I haven't done a thorough study of the subject. Maybe that will change now.
So, now for interaction from the THR populace. Are there any other inherent disadvantages? Further, what other steps have been taken to work around the bullpup's flaws, and is the added compactness worth it?
1. KB factor. When one of these rifles does have a kaboom, it's generally not a good thing to have it happen right next to your face.
2. Magazine changes. Apparently changing the magazine in a traditional bullpup configuration can be ackward.
3. Right to left/left to right problems. A KB right against your cheek is not a good thing. Nor are spent casings slapping you in the head. Accomidating for southpaws is a bit trickier for bullpups.
4. Funky triggers. The trigger mechanism is a relatively long distance from the hammer and sear.
The FN 2000 has forward ejection. This sidesteps problem 3. Their P90 uses downward ejection, if I recall correctly, and has the magazine mounted on top. This appears to solve problem 3 as well, while at the same time possibly worsening problem 2. (Anyone with hands-on experience care to correct me?) Those are the biggest innovations I know of. Admittedly, I haven't done a thorough study of the subject. Maybe that will change now.
So, now for interaction from the THR populace. Are there any other inherent disadvantages? Further, what other steps have been taken to work around the bullpup's flaws, and is the added compactness worth it?