Videos tagged with Ethiopia

This review examines two Ethiopian Gras carbines, highlighting Ethiopia's unique historical sovereignty against European colonialism. Emperor Menelik II's modernization efforts and Empress Taytu's influence are discussed, alongside the rifles' French origins, conversions, and markings, including Ge'ez script and later Italian occupation brands. The M80 modification for safety and typical condition of Ethiopian surplus rifles are also detailed.

This review details the East German TGF1950, a post-WWII Czech-made Mauser 98k variant. It highlights the Brno Arsenal's continued production for export, unique receiver markings ('tgf 1950'), Czech proof marks, and Ethiopian service numbers. The rifle features a distinct trigger guard and floor plate combination and various front band styles, reflecting its history as military aid to Ethiopia.

This video explores the FN Mauser rifles and carbines supplied to Ethiopia under Haile Selassie I. It details FN's post-WWI recovery and their contract with Ethiopia between 1933-1936, supplying 17,500 rifles and 7,500 carbines. Unique features like the Lion of Judah property mark replacing the serial number and specific sling arrangements on carbines are highlighted, alongside Belgian proof marks indicating foreign inspection.

This review examines the Gewehr 88 and Karabiner 88 rifles acquired by Emperor Menelik II of Ethiopia. These German-made firearms, marked with Amharic script, represent Ethiopia's modernization efforts and successful defense against Italian colonialism, culminating in the decisive Battle of Adwa. The rifles feature the 8x57mm (M/88) caliber and a 5-round en-bloc clip system.

The SIG KE-7 Light Machine Gun, designed by Pal Kiraly and Gotthard End, showcases intricate Swiss engineering with a unique progressive trigger for semi-auto and full-auto fire. Primarily chambered in 8mm Mauser for contracts with China and Ethiopia, it features an open-bolt operation and a sophisticated short-recoil system with an accelerator lever. While marketed with a quick-change barrel, its field stripping is more involved than typical mid-combat replacements.