This documentary delves into the history and evolution of the French Berthier rifle, focusing on the 1907-15 model used extensively in WWI. It highlights the rifle's development from colonial carbines, its mass production challenges, and design improvements like the 1916 model's five-round magazine and handguard. The video also touches on production issues, including a failed Remington contract, and compares the shooting characteristics of different Berthier variants.
This comprehensive reference book, 'Chassepot to FAMAS: French Military Rifles 1866-2016' by Ian McCollum, fills a critical gap in English-language literature on French military rifles. It details ten distinct rifle families with extensive historical data, production figures, variations, and service records. The book is lauded for its high-quality photography and utility for collectors and historians.
This is part two of a November 2019 Q&A session covering a wide range of firearms-related topics. Questions range from AR maintenance, mud testing the Galil Ace, sourcing French military rifle parts (MAS-36), innovative "empty magazine" bolt lock mechanisms, magazine capacity restrictions and caliber choices (5.56 vs .308), mating the BRN-180 to a CAV-15 lower, finding and reactivating DEWAT Chauchat firearms, the utility of 32 ACP, assistance with gear for "Finnish brutality" events, opinions on French firearms beyond the FAMAS, ALG trigger performance in AKs, comparing the SVD to battle rifles (FAL, G3, AR-10), the feasibility of WW1 rifle volley fire at long ranges, views on sporterized Enfields, big bore AR cartridges (450, 458, 50), franchising "Brutality" matches, advantages of enclosed vs. open emitter red dot sights, and a brief discussion on alcoholic preferences (Scotch, Bourbon, Mezcal).
This video provides an update on the printing of the book "Chassepot to FAMAS: French Military Rifles 1866-2016." The pages are officially coming off the press, with photographer James capturing the process. While the printing has begun, it's behind schedule due to the large print run of 10,000 copies. The estimated completion date is December 31st, with delivery to customers expected in early to mid-January. The creators apologize for any inconvenience and disappointment for those hoping for Christmas delivery.
This review of the Mle 1866 Chassepot highlights its unique needle-fire bolt action and caseless paper cartridges. Despite significant black powder fouling that stiffens the action, the rifle remains functional for its intended engagement lengths. The manageable recoil and historical significance make it a fascinating piece for firearms enthusiasts.
This documentary from C&Rsenal's WWI Primer series delves into the history, function, and live fire demonstration of the French RSC 1917 rifle. Hosted by Othais and Mae, the video explores this WWI firearm as part of a centennial anniversary series. It also references additional reading materials on French military rifles and machine rifles, and credits collaborators for ammunition data and animations.
This YouTube video serves as a final call for pre-orders of the book "Chassepot to FAMAS: French Military Rifle 1866-2016" via Kickstarter. The creator highlights the benefits of pre-ordering, including an exclusive blue cover, additional features, and a discounted price. The book covers a significant period of French military rifle history. The project has achieved remarkable success, becoming the second most-funded publishing project on Kickstarter. An alternative pre-order method using PayPal via BackerKit is also provided.
This review details the rare, factory-produced MAS 49-56 chambered in 7.62mm NATO, contrasting it with commercial conversions. It highlights the historical context of NATO standardization and the specific design modifications made to the rifle, such as a specialized pistol grip and cheek rest. The analysis reveals that despite modifications, the rifle project was ultimately scrapped due to mechanical failures caused by excessive bolt velocity from 7.62 NATO ammunition.
This YouTube video is a book update that focuses on pre-ordering the author's book, "Chassepot to FAMAS: French Military Rifles 1866-2011." The description provides multiple links for purchasing, including a BackerKit shop for PayPal orders, a link to a "Project Lightening" poster on candrsenal.com, a "Gun Jesus" poster via headstamppublishing.com, and the original Kickstarter campaign. While the video title mentions a book about French military rifles, the direct content of the video seems to be about merchandise and book sales, rather than a review or demonstration of firearms themselves.
The MAS 49-56 is the final French semi-automatic battle rifle, serving from 1956 to 1979. Key upgrades from the MAS 49 include a shortened barrel and stock for modern combat, and a NATO standard 22mm grenade launcher capability. A crucial gas cut-off system prevents bolt cycling during grenade launches, enhancing longevity. The rifle is a versatile platform, adaptable for standard infantry, grenadiers, and marksmen, featuring an APX L.806 scope and a unique feeding system for both magazines and stripper clips.
This video clarifies the Direct Gas Impingement (DGI) operating system, distinguishing it from the AR-15's system. It highlights the MAS 49/56 as a primary example of DGI, explaining how gas vents directly into the bolt carrier. The system's simplicity and lack of adjustability are noted, contrasting it with gas piston and blowback designs.
The MAS 49 is a French semi-automatic service rifle developed to improve upon the MAS 44, featuring capabilities for grenade launching and optics mounting. Key design elements include an integrated grenade launcher with adjustable range and a side-mounted APX L806 scope. Internal differences, such as a heavier firing pin, were implemented for reliability with French military primers, though this can cause slam-fires with commercial ammunition.
Gun Laws by State
Read firearms regulations for all 50 states + D.C.
Find Gun Dealers
Search licensed FFL dealers near you.