Weirdest Rifle of WW1: The Periscope Rifle The Periscope Rifle, developed during World War I, is often considered one of the strangest firearms of the conflict. Designed by the British as a response to trench warfare, this unique weapon aimed to give soldiers a tactical advantage by allowing them to fire from a concealed position without exposing themselves to enemy fire. The rifle was equipped with a periscope attachment that enabled the shooter to see and aim at targets while lying down in the