Book Review: Johnson Rifles and Machine Guns, by Bruce Canfield

This video features firearms expert Larry Vickers discussing various firearms and their historical development, particularly focusing on World War II era weapons and their influence on modern designs. Vickers shares insights on the AK-47's potential StG 44 influence, the M1 Garand's superiority over the Johnson rifle, and the enduring legacy of the 1911 pistol. He also touches on modern firearms like the SIG P320 and Glock 19, emphasizing the importance of proper firearm maintenance and the resurgence of 9mm ammunition.

This video delves into the historical origins of the multi-lug rotating bolt design, a key feature in many modern semi-automatic firearms. It contrasts its advantages over other locking mechanisms like tilt-locking or blowback. While Stoner is credited with its widespread implementation, the video suggests earlier 1800s designs bear striking similarities, potentially predating the inspiration from Melvin Johnson.

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.