Videos tagged with Cyrillic Markings

This video provides an in-depth examination of a rare, one-of-a-kind prototype Smith & Wesson No. 3 Russian Pattern Revolver featuring a unique Bird's Head grip conversion. Expert firearm historian Ian McCollum details the revolver's history, its Russian contract origins, and the meticulous gunsmithing involved in reshaping the grip frame. The presentation highlights the craftsmanship and prototype markings, offering insights into rejected experimental designs.

This review details a rare Russian contract Colt 1911 from WWI, one of approximately 51,000 purchased. Identification is complex, relying on serial numbers (C21,000-C89,000) and often requiring Colt historical letters, as standard commercial models share this range. Later contracts feature Cyrillic markings, but earlier models like the one shown lack them. These pistols have a long service history, seeing action in multiple conflicts.

This entry details the Bulgarian M1911 Luger, a variant adopted by Bulgaria in 1911. It highlights unique features such as a reversed marking scheme with the Bulgarian crest on the toggle and DWM on the chamber, a distinctive lanyard ring, and Cyrillic inscriptions for safety and loaded chamber indicators. The entry also touches upon Bulgarian Luger procurement history and modifications during WWII, drawing from expert analysis by Ian McCollum.