Ohio Ordnance

Ohio Ordnance Works is an American manufacturer based in Chardon, Ohio, that occupies a uniquely specialized position in the civilian firearms market as one of the very few companies producing semi-automatic versions of historically significant belt-fed and crew-served machine-gun designs. The company has developed a reputation for producing legally compliant semi-automatic variants of weapons, including the Browning Automatic Rifle (BAR), the 1919A4 Browning machine gun, the HCAR (Heavy Counter Assault Rifle), and other historically significant military designs that are not otherwise available to civilian shooters in semi-automatic format.

The civilian-legal versions of these historically significant weapons produced by Ohio Ordnance require substantial engineering work to convert from their original automatic-fire configurations to semi-automatic operation while maintaining the mechanical character and aesthetic of the originals. This work demands deep knowledge of the original designs as well as the engineering and manufacturing capability to produce compliant variants that function reliably. Ohio Ordnance has invested in this expertise and has become the leading American source for these unusual products.

The company’s most celebrated product is its HCAR, a modernized semi-automatic version of the Browning Automatic Rifle chambered in .30-06 Springfield, which retains the essential mechanical character of the original while incorporating practical improvements, including an adjustable stock, Picatinny rail system, and other modern features. This product has attracted considerable attention from historical arms enthusiasts, collectors, and shooters who want to experience the operation of one of World War II’s most iconic infantry weapons.

Ohio Ordnance also produces accessories and parts for these historical designs, supporting the collector and enthusiast community beyond its firearm production activities. For history enthusiasts and collectors seeking legal access to historically significant weapon designs, Ohio Ordnance provides an invaluable service.