[1] It was designed by Frank F. Burton for the Winchester-Burton Machine Rifle, also known as the Winchester Model 1917.

[2] While few original documents pertaining to the rifle have survived, it was probably intended primarily for use as an anti-balloon weapon,[1] [3] while fitted to aircraft.

[4] These static balloons inflated with hydrogen, became targets for airmen on both sides, and were defended by anti-aircraft batteries and patrol fighters.

[6] In 1916, French officer Yves le Prieur created a rocket system powered by electricity, but its range was limited.

[1][5] To meet this need, Frank F. Burton of Winchester, developed the "Burton Light Machine Rifle", a selective fire blowback rifle, with selection of rate of fire to be used in observation and surveillance planes, the first practical version of which was ready in 1917.