Ask Ian: Why So Few Reproduction Historic Guns?

This video details how Sam Cummings, a collector and "gun nut," secured a significant contract for AR-10 rifles with Guatemala in late 1957. After demonstrating the prototype AR-10 (serial number 1001) across Central and South America, Guatemala placed an order for 450 units for their military school, the Escuela Politécnica. The delivery was scheduled for mid to late 1958.

This guide details the history and evolution of the AR-15 forward assist, drawing on expert analysis from Forgotten Weapons. It covers the original design's omission of the feature, its introduction on specific AR-10 variants, and the differing military procurement preferences that ultimately led to its standardization. The information highlights Eugene Stoner's view that it was a solution in search of a problem.

This video from Daniel Defense, featuring insights from founder Marty Daniel, outlines the company's journey from a small parts manufacturer to a full-scale firearm producer. It highlights their commitment to quality, innovation, and core values rooted in faith and freedom, with a long-term vision for enduring success. The content emphasizes their manufacturing capabilities, including advanced CNC machining, and their dedication to serving customers with the best products.

This video announces the release and details the contents of the book 'Small Arms of the Cold War: Battle Rifles of NATO' by Ian McCollum of Forgotten Weapons. The book covers major NATO battle rifles and associated firearms from the early Cold War period, including precursors and less common examples. It features extensive photography and aims to provide a comprehensive overview of these iconic weapons.

Forgotten Weapons announces the upcoming release of 'Battle Rifles of NATO,' a new book focusing on Cold War small arms. Shipping is slated for early December, with US orders expected first. The book features detailed photography and technical information on iconic rifles like the FN FAL, M14, and AR-10.

This video features firearm experts Ian McCollum and Bloke on the Range debunking common myths about the AK-47, M16, and M1 Carbine. They provide historical context and technical explanations, drawing on their extensive knowledge of firearms.

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.