Because it looks like the gun on the movie "Planet of the Apes".

 

"Monkey Gun" refers specifically to the original 995, Pre-TS stock. If you look at any pics from that original POA movie, it really does resemble the guns that the apes carried.

 

 

Ought to make this a sticky. It's at least the 3rd thread posted about the "monkey gun" name, in the short time I have been a member. Incidently the guns used in Planet of the Apes were modified M1 Carbine movie prop guns.

 

I was going to make an avatar out of a screen shot of the gun in the movie, but the 995 looks a whole lot cooler vs. the movie props so it didn't happen...

 

yep they used a heavily modified M1 carbine rifle

 

http://www.icollector.com/Hero-working-gorilla-rifle-from-Beneath-the-Planet-of-the-Apes_i11537218

Apparently a very sought after collector's item...

 

We have stickies coming out our backside. They don't stop repeated questions. Look how many post about mags.

 

actually it's generally referred to as the 'Ape gun'.

 

yep they used a heavily modified M1 carbine rifle

Looking at the bolt, it look like a Universal M1 carbine. You can tell by the slot for the bolt on the handle.

 

Here's your answer:

 

Not really sure who started it, but Im sure there are a few monkeys who have these. Started in the late 90's. In fact if you google images "hi Point Monkey Gun" you will see a few pics of my carbine I posted on this forum.

 

actually it's generally referred to as the 'Ape gun'.

It used to be. But it seems to have become "monkey gun". Maybe the use of the word "ape" has become politically incorrect or something.

 

I didn't know that the movie ape guns were made from M1 carbines. I had assumed that they were just wooden or plastic props.

 

Most were, the "real" prop guns are usually used only in closeups or when actually firing. Extras and stunt people get rubber and cast plastic replicas so the expensive ones don't get damaged. Also the guy in charge of making sure no one gets killed has less to worry about.