August 2017 Q&A - Part 1 of 3

Published on August 29, 2017
Duration: 40:03

This Q&A session from InRangeTV covers a range of firearms topics. Discussions include the rationale behind specific AR-15 configurations like barrel length and flash hiders, the evolution of optic technology from fixed magnifiers to variable power, and caliber choices for AR platforms. The conversation also delves into the technical differences between direct impingement and gas piston systems, the historical context of firearm designs like the AK and AR-18, and the practicalities of pump-action rifles and rifle revolvers. Additionally, the speakers touch upon the design choices in modern handguns and the historical use of firearms in the Old West.

Quick Summary

The decision to use a 14.5-inch barrel with a pinned and welded flash hider on the 'What Would Stoner Do' rifle was primarily to achieve a greater differential in overall length and weight compared to the 18-inch barreled rifle. This configuration also legally meets the minimum length requirements for NFA regulations.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction and Q&A Format
  2. 00:40AR-15 Barrel Length and Flash Hider Choice
  3. 02:29Optic Choices: ACOG vs. Variable Power
  4. 03:53M27 IAR Build and Stacked Optics
  5. 04:53Variable Optics vs. Stacked Optics
  6. 06:30Ideal AR-10/AR-15 Calibers
  7. 09:40Gas System: Traditional DI vs. Piston AR
  8. 11:10Taiwanese T91 vs. HK416 Proliferation
  9. 12:51AK Selector Lever Safety Configuration
  10. 15:09French Service Rifle Safety Adaptations
  11. 17:23Modern Striker-Fired Rifles
  12. 20:07AR-18 Design Influence on Modern Rifles
  13. 23:19Pump-Action Service Rifles
  14. 25:53Rifle Revolvers: Why They Didn't Become a Thing
  15. 27:40Blowback SMG vs. Handgun Safety
  16. 29:43Double Stack Pistol Magazine Feed Types
  17. 32:31Manufacturing Assault Rifles in the Past
  18. 35:55Old West Safari and European Elites
  19. 38:29Weapons Used by Saloon Girls and Women

Frequently Asked Questions

Why did InRangeTV choose a 14.5-inch barrel with a pinned and welded flash hider for their 'What Would Stoner Do' rifle?

The primary reason was to create a significant difference in overall length and weight compared to their 18-inch barreled rifle. This configuration also legally meets the minimum barrel length requirements for NFA regulations, allowing for a shorter overall firearm without being classified as a short-barreled rifle.

What are the advantages of the 5.45x39mm cartridge over 5.56x45mm for an AR platform?

The 5.45x39mm cartridge offers better case extraction under pressure due to its taper, is lighter for carrying larger volumes of ammunition, and produces less recoil. It provides many of the benefits of 5.56x45mm while adding these distinct advantages.

What is the fundamental difference between the AR-15's gas system and external piston systems like the HK416?

The AR-15 uses a direct impingement system where gas operates within the bolt carrier group. In contrast, external piston systems like the HK416 have a separate piston rod that pushes the bolt carrier. External systems can shift heat and weight forward, potentially affecting weapon balance.

Why are blowback actions generally considered safer in 9mm submachine guns than in 9mm handguns?

Blowback actions require significant mass in the bolt or slide to delay extraction until chamber pressure drops. Submachine guns can easily accommodate this heavy mass, whereas it makes 9mm blowback handguns bulky and heavy, often leading to less practical designs compared to locked-breech systems.

What did women in the Old West, like saloon girls, typically use for self-defense?

Women in the Old West often relied on knives and small derringers, typically chambered in .41 caliber rimfire. This was partly due to strict town ordinances against open carry, making concealed weapons like small revolvers or derringers a more practical choice for personal protection.

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