Fred J Skahill

Title: **Inventor Fred J. Skahill: Innovations in Ammunition Mechanisms**

Introduction

Fred J. Skahill is an accomplished inventor based in Davenport, Iowa, with a notable career dedicated to developing innovative technology for military applications. With a total of six patents to his name, Skahill's inventions focus primarily on improvements in ammunition mechanisms, significantly impacting the efficiency and functionality of automatic weapons.

Latest Patents

Among Fred J. Skahill's most recent contributions to the field are two standout patents that showcase his engineering skills. The first, entitled *Cam Actuated Ammunition Prestripping Mechanism*, describes an apparatus designed to improve the removal of ammunition from a link belt for automatic weapons. By utilizing a cam positioned near the feed means, the mechanism allows for a positive forward displacement of the round, helping to disengage it from the retention tab more effectively, especially before the counter recoil stroke. This innovation reduces energy requirements for the weapon's operation significantly.

The second patent, *Pressure Relief Valve for Providing Recoil to Blank-Firing Weapons*, offers an enhanced solution for generating recoil in blank-firing weapons. The design includes a specially fashioned cap that accommodates longitudinal barrel movement, featuring a series of holes for venting gas pressure. When a blank cartridge is fired, gas is trapped by the relief valve, allowing the barrel to recoil as the pressure is rapidly vented, thus optimizing the firing process for blank rounds.

Career Highlights

Fred J. Skahill currently serves the U.S. Government as represented by the Secretary of the Army, where he continues to apply his expertise in patents related to military technology. His work has been crucial in ensuring that military weapons maintain operational readiness with reliable functionality.

Collaborations

Throughout his career, Fred has collaborated with noted professionals in his field, including Curtis D. Johnson and Lonnie D. Antwiler. These collaborations reflect a strong network of expertise that enhances the development of innovative solutions in ammunition technology.

Conclusion

Fred J. Skahill is a distinguished inventor whose contributions to the field of ammunition mechanisms significantly improve the performance of weapons systems. His latest patents demonstrate a commitment to innovation and provide solutions that have practical applications in military settings. As he continues to work within the U.S. Army, Skahill's efforts highlight the critical intersection of engineering and military technology.