Videos tagged with Gun Techs

This video from the Smyth Busters series, featuring Brownells Gun Techs Steve and Caleb, investigates the durability of the Law Tactical Folding Stock Adapter for the AR-15. Addressing a common rumor that the adapter is a weak point, the team subjected an AR-15 equipped with the adapter to rigorous testing, including throwing it like a hammer. While other components like the castle nut (which came loose) and B5 Systems stocks showed wear or proved exceptionally durable, the Law Tactical adapter itself withstood the abuse. The conclusion is that for practical purposes, the myth of the Law adapter being easily breakable is busted, making it a reliable addition to an AR-15.

This video is a direct request to the YouTube audience from Caleb and Steve of Brownells, asking for viewer input on future video topics. They highlight that many existing videos, such as Smyth Busters, Quick Tips, Tech Tips, and Product Spotlights, are created based on viewer suggestions and frequently asked questions received by their tech line. They also promote their new website, where more content, including videos restricted on other platforms, can be found under the 'Trigger Times' tab. Viewers are encouraged to submit topic ideas through comments, email, phone, or even mail, with the caveat that suggestions must be firearm-related, relevant, and legal to be considered for a video.

This video compares budget AR-15s to higher-end models, concluding that while cheaper options may function initially, quality materials and manufacturing ensure superior long-term durability and performance. The hosts use analogies like professional tools versus cheap alternatives to illustrate the point, highlighting differences in materials such as aluminum grades and stock quality.

This video debunks the necessity of bedding AR-15 barrels, arguing that proper assembly with quality parts makes it redundant. The hosts explain that the torque of the barrel nut against the receiver face creates sufficient rigidity. For truly loose fits, replacing parts or using manufacturer-specific interference fit methods are presented as superior alternatives to bedding.

This video provides a "first look" at the SIG Sauer P365 X-Macro pistol, presented by Brownells Gun Techs Caleb and Steve. They highlight how the X-Macro aims to bridge the gap between micro-compacts and full-size pistols by offering a full-length grip capable of accepting a 17-round magazine, while maintaining a slim profile. Key features discussed include interchangeable backstraps, an optic-ready slide, a Picatinny rail, tritium night sights, a straight trigger, and an integral compensator designed to reduce recoil and muzzle rise. The presenters emphasize its suitability for concealed carry and self-defense, noting its capacity for a full-size magazine in a package only slightly larger than the original P365.

This episode of Smyth Busters celebrates its 100th installment by debunking common viewer myths surrounding Brownells Gun Techs Caleb and Steve. The duo addresses personal questions ranging from their relationship to their age, and even touches on humorous queries about their attire behind the table and the contents of their coffee mugs. Specific mentions include the M2 machine gun prototype and the video game 'Escape from Tarkov', suggesting a deep dive into viewer perceptions and potentially some behind-the-scenes insights into the world of firearms.

This 'Smyth Busters' video debunks the myth that superior firearm gear automatically equates to better shooting performance. Hosts Caleb and Steve from Brownells argue that while good gear is beneficial, it's only effective when coupled with consistent practice. They emphasize that extensive training with inexpensive equipment will consistently outperform a lack of practice with the most expensive gear. The video encourages users to experiment with different accessories to find what works best for them and to try others' gear before purchasing. Ultimately, the core message is that regular practice with your existing equipment is paramount to improvement, not the price tag of the gear itself.

This video addresses the common misconception that left-handed shooters require specialized left-handed firearms. Brownells Gun Techs Steve and Caleb discuss how approximately 10-12% of the population is left-handed and how this applies to shooting. They highlight that while many modern pistols are ambidextrous, most rifles remain right-handed. The discussion debunks the notion that this is a significant handicap, citing examples of proficient left-handed shooters like Ian McCollum and Craig Boddington who have used right-handed firearms extensively. The video emphasizes that proficiency is developed through practice, and left-handed individuals can adapt to right-handed firearms, often benefiting from a wider selection of guns and easier access to parts. Certain platforms like pump-action shotguns, lever-action rifles, single-action revolvers, and ambidextrous pistols like the SIG P320 do not favor a specific handedness. Interestingly, the video also touches on why some right-handed long-range shooters prefer left-hand actions. Ultimately, the video concludes that the myth of left-handed shooters needing exclusively left-handed guns is busted, as lefties can effectively use and adapt to right-handed firearms.

The Brownells Smyth Busters episode debunks the myth that the .40 S&W cartridge is obsolete. Modern advancements in 9mm ballistics have closed the performance gap, offering comparable effectiveness with advantages in lower recoil and faster target transitions. While .40 S&W still holds some appeal for specific platforms and was more available during shortages, 9mm is generally favored for its shootability.

This "Smyth Busters" episode tackles the common question of whether torque specifications for firearms, specifically AR-15 barrel nuts and scope rings, are essential or just suggestions. Brownells Gun Techs Steve and Caleb explain that torque specs exist for crucial reasons, ensuring proper assembly and function. While some specs offer a wide range (like AR-15 barrel nuts), and experienced gunsmiths develop a "feel," following manufacturer torque recommendations is vital for consistent scope ring "grab" to prevent optic shift under recoil without damaging the scope tube. The myth that torque specs are optional is busted, with the conclusion that adhering to them is always the correct approach.

This 'Smyth Busters' episode tackles the persistent myth of 5.56 NATO bullets tumbling in flight. Hosts Steve and Caleb from Brownells Gun Techs investigate whether this phenomenon, often cited as a reason for the cartridge's lethality, is real. They explain how early M16s with slower 1-12" twist barrels might have contributed to the misconception, with bullets potentially tumbling after impact rather than in the air. The video clarifies that accurate flight requires stability and that heavier bullets (62 and 77 grain) might yaw but don't tumble end-over-end. The discussion highlights the importance of modern, faster twist rates (1-7" and 1-8") for optimal accuracy with heavier projectiles in AR-15 platforms. Ultimately, the myth of 5.56 NATO bullets tumbling in flight is definitively busted.

This video from Smyth Busters, featuring Brownells Gun Techs Caleb and Steve, investigates whether shooting tracer ammunition will significantly wear out a rifle's barrel. They explain that tracer rounds contain a pyrotechnic charge which generates intense heat and residue. While military firearms often have chrome-lined barrels to withstand this, standard sporting rifle barrels are less resistant. The conclusion is that tracer ammo does indeed wear out sporting rifle barrels faster than standard ammunition, though occasional use with thorough cleaning on a chrome-lined barrel like an AR-15's is generally acceptable, but rapid fire (mag dumps) of tracers is discouraged.