The Browning Model 1919, an air-cooled, upgraded version of the water-cooled Model 1917, was the prime machinegun in use by all forces during World War II, and is considered the gun that took the world to final victory over Japanese Imperialism and German Totalitarianism. While some would argue that it is in competition with the Garand, the 1911 and the BAR for the title of most central instrument toward victory during the war, it saw service in more than 20 countries and could be chambered in 10 different cartridges, including .30-06 and 7.62×51 mm NATO. Learn more about this adaptable machinegun, which includes its evolution to variants like the M1919A4 and M1919A6, by watching this “I Have This Old Gun” segment from a recent episode of American Rifleman TV.
Video: I Have This Old Gun—Browning Model 1919
by
Support NRA American Rifleman
DONATE
** 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. **
More like this from around the NRA
Latest
Review: Henry SPD Hush Rifle
The SPD Hush, Henry’s new take on the lever-action rifle, is fit for a wide array of tasks and is an ideal host for a suppressor.
New for 2026: Bergara Platinum Stalker and Cima Pro Rifles
Bergara has two new lightweight rifles to lighten the load in the field.
The Armed Citizen® Feb. 2, 2026
Read today's "The Armed Citizen" entry for real stories of law-abiding citizens, past and present, who used their firearms to save lives.
Taurus Celebrates 20 Years of the Judge
A custom edition celebrates two decades of Taurus' Judge revolver.
Preview: DefGrip USA Performance Firearm Grips
Holding a firearm consistently and correctly results in more hits than misses on target, and one of the easiest-to-install grip-enhancement products comes from DefGrip USA.
Review: GForce Arms GF9 Rapture
In a market filled with Glock 19 clones, the GForce Arms GF9 Rapture decided to be a Glock 26 clone instead.
Interests
SECTIONS
IN THE SPOTLIGHT
EXPLORE MORE NRA PUBLICATIONS
