Announcing Headstamp's New Book: Swords of the Emperor

This video is a book review of "Swords of the Emperor: A Guide to the Identification of Imperial Japanese Swords, 1873 – 1945" by John Plimpton, published by Headstamp Publishing. The book covers a less-studied period of Japanese swordmaking, detailing the evolution of military, police, diplomatic, and court swords. It features over 2,000 photographs and archival material, illustrating both traditional and modern sword types, including specific examples like the 1873 Japanese Marine sword and the Gensuitō gifted to King George V. The review highlights the book's value for collectors, curators, researchers, and enthusiasts interested in Japanese military history and sword identification.

This YouTube video announces the pre-order of a new book from Headstamp Publishing titled "Tobacco of the Emperor." The book, authored by Patrick Phillips and photographed by James Rupley, focuses on Japanese cigarettes and related materials from the turn of the 20th century to the end of World War Two. It covers the general history of tobacco in Japan, its use in the military, details on Japanese cigarette brands and packaging, associated accessories like pipes and lighters, and foreign cigarettes consumed in Japan. The book is available for pre-order through a Kickstarter campaign for another project, "Clockwork Basilisk," and can be purchased as a standalone item or an add-on. A special "Japanese bundle" combining this book with "Swords of the Emperor" and exclusive extras is also offered.

This guide details the specific technique for separating two MAS-36 rifles that have been inadvertently locked together by their bayonets. It outlines the historical context of this issue, the modification made to the bayonet to resolve it, and the step-by-step procedure for disengagement. The technique requires precise alignment and the use of a pointed tool to access the internal release mechanism, as demonstrated by firearms expert Ian McCollum.

This guide details the loading and firing procedure for the M134 Minigun, as explained by Ian McCollum. It covers manual indexing of the barrel cluster, feeding the ammunition belt, engaging controls, and firing. The guide also touches upon the weapon's spin-down inertia and the function of modern clutch systems. Expert instruction from a recognized firearms historian highlights the technical aspects of operating this powerful weapon system.

This guide details the operational features of the H&K G11 K2, a prototype assault rifle known for its caseless ammunition and unique rotating drum bolt. It covers the selector settings, magazine capacity, integrated optics, and the internal action designed for recoil management during high-rate-of-fire bursts. Expert insights from Ian McCollum highlight the historical context and technical innovations of this advanced firearm.

This guide details the operation of the German L.Gr.W.36 50mm light mortar, as demonstrated by expert Ian McCollum. It covers assembly, leveling procedures, ammunition handling, and live fire execution, emphasizing the difficulty in visually tracking the projectile. The instruction highlights the importance of proper setup for accuracy.