This comprehensive overview traces the evolution of U.S. Army small arms from the M14 to the M4 Carbine and looks towards future platforms like the Sig Sauer XM7. It details the design philosophies, technical advancements, and combat performance of these iconic firearms, highlighting the enduring legacy of the AR platform and the ongoing quest for improved firepower and ergonomics. The insights are presented with the authority of American Rifleman editors and a retired USMC/US Army museum curator.
This 'Spicy Friday' episode from Paul Harrell features a compilation of internet memes and commentary, hosted by Johnny B. It includes critiques of gun control advocacy groups like 'Moms Demand Action' and individuals perceived as hypocritical within the firearms community, such as 'Jackwagon of the Week' DL Jennings. The episode also touches on firearm history with a meme about Eugene Stoner and promotes merchandise from Tristar Trading, alongside a satirical review of a bizarre product called 'The Butt Baby'. The overall tone is energetic and culturally critical, reflecting a high level of engagement with online discourse.
This video, presented by a highly authoritative source on firearms mechanics, challenges the common classification of the AR-15/M16 system as 'Direct Impingement.' Instead, it argues, based on Eugene Stoner's patents and mechanical analysis, that the AR-15 utilizes an internal piston system. True Direct Impingement rifles, like the French MAS49, are contrasted with the AR-15's design where gas acts within the bolt carrier group.
The Armalite AR-16 represents a crucial, yet often overlooked, step in rifle development, bridging the gap between the AR-10 and the AR-18. It pioneered the use of stamped sheet metal receivers and a short-stroke gas piston system to reduce manufacturing costs. Though never mass-produced, its design innovations significantly influenced subsequent combat rifle designs like the L85, Steyr AUG, and G36.
This review details AR-15 serial number 6, a rare original configuration prototype from the Springfield Armory National Historic Site. It explores the AR-15's lineage from Project Salvo and its development from the AR-10, highlighting key design features like the original 25-round straight magazine and top-mounted charging handle. The video contrasts early prototype elements with later modifications made after military trials, such as the rear charging handle and 20-round magazine.
This YouTube video, based on its title and description, discusses the M16A2 rifle and claims that its design was a 'downgrade' according to Eugene Stoner, the designer of the original AR-15 platform. The title explicitly mentions the M16A2 and Eugene Stoner, indicating a focus on the history and technical aspects of this specific firearm and its lineage. The description also includes a link to a full video, suggesting a more in-depth exploration of the topic.
The AR-15 carry handle's primary purpose was not for carrying, but to house the rear sight and protect the original top-mounted charging handle. Colt's later design moved the charging handle, but the carry handle persisted for the sight. Using it to carry the rifle is discouraged due to poor balance.
This video delves into the fascinating history of ArmaLite, a pioneering American firearms company founded in 1954. It highlights their revolutionary designs, including the AR-10 and the iconic AR-15, developed by chief designer Eugene Stoner. The narrative traces ArmaLite's journey from its innovative beginnings under Fairchild Engine and Airplane Corporation to its financial struggles, leading to the sale of the AR-15 design to Colt in 1959, which paved the way for the M16. The video explores the company's eventual closure and its lasting legacy in shaping modern firearms, from Hollywood to global battlefields.
The Armalite AR-1 'Parasniper' was the company's first rifle, designed before Eugene Stoner's involvement, aiming for an ultra-lightweight bolt-action using aircraft materials. Despite innovative construction with fiberglass and aluminum, early military tests revealed accuracy and reliability issues, particularly with composite barrel delamination when hot. This failure ultimately led Armalite to pivot towards projects like the AR-10, making the AR-1 a significant but ultimately unsuccessful precursor in firearms history.
The AR-14 was a real, documented design concept by Armalite for a semi-auto sporting rifle, evidenced in company literature and patent filings for Eugene Stoner's gas system. However, Armalite pivoted to military projects like the AR-10 and AR-15, eventually selling the gas system design to Colt. While the AR-14 concept existed, it's highly unlikely any physical units were ever manufactured.
This review delves into the revolutionary modularity of the Stoner 63, a firearm favored by Navy SEALs for its lightweight design and versatility. It highlights the extreme rarity and cost of original Stoner 63s, contrasting them with the more accessible Robinson M96 semi-auto clone. The video compares the Stoner 63's mobility and firepower against the heavier M60, showcasing its historical significance and technical innovations.
The AR-15's forward assist was not part of Eugene Stoner's original design, which aimed for a streamlined rifle. Its inclusion was driven by the U.S. Army's insistence, despite Stoner and the Air Force viewing it as a solution to a non-existent problem. Due to the Army's larger procurement numbers, the forward assist variant eventually became the de facto industry and military standard.
Gun Laws by State
Read firearms regulations for all 50 states + D.C.
Find Gun Dealers
Search licensed FFL dealers near you.