Channel: @forgottenweapons
This video examines a unique pocket revolver with a folding trigger mechanism integrated into brass knuckles. The presenter highlights the surprising effectiveness of the grip and compares it favorably to other pocket pistols of its era. The revolver is a double-action-only, 5mm pinfire model, though 7mm variants also exist. A notable issue is a broken cylinder hand, preventing proper rotation.
The M26 MASS is a bolt-action, 12-gauge underbarrel shotgun system adopted by the US military in 2012. Manufactured by Seymour Products, it was designed to be modular and attach to the M4 carbine, offering capabilities from door breaching to CQB operations. It utilizes box magazines and features a reversible charging handle and folding iron sights for compatibility with the M4.
This guide details the operation of the M26 shotgun's reversible charging handle, folding bolt, and manual safety. It covers how to cycle the action, chamber rounds, and engage/disengage the safety. The video emphasizes the reversible nature of the charging handle for ambidextrous use and notes the folding bolt handle's convenience. Proper safety procedures are implicitly highlighted through the demonstration of manual controls.
The Walther WA2000 sniper rifle was developed in response to the 1972 Munich Olympics massacre, aiming to equip German counter-terrorism units like GSG 9 with specialized capabilities. While adopted by some West German police units in 1976, it never entered mass production, with only 176 units manufactured. Its design was tailored for police counter-terrorism rather than military applications.
This video examines a rare late-war commercial K98k rifle produced in 1944, distinct from standard Wehrmacht issue. Instructor Ian McCollum details its unique markings, assembly by Fritz Langenham using reclaimed parts, and discusses theories for its production outside military contracts, suggesting use by factory guards or other institutions.
The Maroszek rifle, a Polish semi-automatic design from the 1930s, is highlighted for its advanced features and ease of maintenance, which reportedly surpassed contemporary designs. Its development was unfortunately cut short by the German and Soviet invasions of Poland, preventing it from entering widespread service. Despite not being adopted, the Maroszek is considered a well-executed and innovative firearm for its era.
This video explores Aimpoint's 'Project ICE,' a 1990s prototype red dot sight that never reached mass production. The project focused on an aesthetic, organic design using cast aluminum and a modular construction separating optics from electronics. While innovative for its time, Project ICE was ultimately shelved due to market preferences for ring mounts and Aimpoint's strategic focus on securing major US military contracts, particularly the M68 CCO.
This video features a comparison between the Franchi LF-57 and the Colt SMG, hosted by Ian McCollum and John Keene. They discuss the pros and cons of each submachine gun, considering factors like ergonomics, reliability, parts availability, and collectibility. While the Colt SMG is technically superior in many shooting aspects, the Franchi LF-57 is favored for its rarity and unique appeal as a collectible item.
This video compares a rare Italian Franchi SMG with a practical Colt 9mm SMG. The Franchi operates on an open-bolt, blowback system and uses Beretta magazines. The Colt 9mm SMG, a variant of the AR platform, is also blowback-operated but uses a closed-bolt system and converted Uzi magazines. Both firearms are chambered in 9mm.
This video details the HK Mk23's impressive durability, specifically its slide's finish. The combination of parkerizing and black lacquer paint was found by HK to be the optimal solution for environmental resistance, particularly against saltwater and sand.
This video from Forgotten Weapons explores the history and technical aspects of Henry Deringer's percussion pocket pistols. Ian McCollum details Deringer's career, the transition from flintlock to percussion, and the design features that made these pistols popular defensive tools. The discussion covers their mechanical operation, common calibers and barrel lengths, and the significant impact of Deringer's brand, even leading to trademark infringement lawsuits over counterfeit models.
This video discusses the Browning 1919A4 machine gun, highlighting its use in Sherman tanks and its field-replaceable nature. It emphasizes that standard infantry versions could be adapted for tank mounts, simplifying logistics and maintenance. The discussion also briefly touches on the differences between tank-mounted and infantry versions of later machine guns like the M240.
