However...there have been various experiments with semi automatic rifles.
In most of the cases the Dutch M95 rifle was used as a base.
Around 1900 a German gunsmith called Karl August Brauning, was contracted by the Dutch to construct a semi automatic rifle.
Again the Dutch M95 rifle was used as a base.
After intensive tests, the rifle was rejected by the Dutch and Brauning was given the opportunity to buy his design for $30,-.
Shortly after this, Brauning moves to the town of "Herstal" in Belgium, where the FN factories give Brauning the opportunity to work out his ideas.
In 1911 and 1912 two types of Brauning semi automatic rifles are manufactured.
The similarity to the Dutch M95 rifle is striking.
The similarity to the Dutch M95 bolt action rifle is striking
The Dutch themselves keep developing and testing.
In the picture below you can see a semi automatic rifle based on the Dutch M95 bolt action rifle.
The rifle is marked HEMBRUG 1919.
The designer of this rifle is not known.
Maybe Braunings designs gave him some inspiration or maybe the Dutch did some experimenting themselves.
Dutch M95 bolt action rifle, transformed to a semi automatic rifle.
Met vriendelijke groet,
Martin