Final Prices: James D. Julia Fall 2017 Auction

This video provides an in-depth look at the M1918 BAR, distinguishing it as an 'automatic rifle' rather than a light machine gun. It details the M1918's technical specifications, including its .30-06 caliber, 20-round magazine, and open-bolt operation, while comparing it unfavorably to the heavier M1918A2 variant. The content explores the BAR's historical development, its role in combat, and critiques design modifications that attempted to force it into an LMG role.

Forgotten Weapons outlines ambitious 2017 plans, including international travel to France and the Pattern Room, funded by Patreon success. The channel will continue documenting rare firearms from museums and auctions, with a focus on historical significance and mechanical details. New content will feature deep dives into personal Japanese and French rifle collections, alongside demonstrations of specific models like the Winchester Hotchkiss 1883 and FN-49.

This video details the unique 'French Finger Trap' issue with the MAS-36 rifle's bayonet, where two rifles can become unintentionally locked together. A 1951 French arsenal memorandum identified this problem, proposing a simple modification to the bayonet handle. Drilling a small hole allows a tool, like a firing pin, to depress the internal spring, enabling the separation of locked rifles.

The M134 Minigun is a scaled-down 7.62 NATO rotary cannon, requiring 24V DC power and consuming 1.5 kW. Its high rate of fire (3,000+ RPM) is essential for aircraft engagement windows. The complex delinker mechanism is critical for feeding ammunition, and practical hand-held use is impossible due to weight and recoil. Live fire demonstrates rapid ammunition consumption and the need for indirect aiming.

The H&K G11 is a revolutionary prototype assault rifle designed in the late 20th century, notable for its caseless ammunition and unique rotating drum bolt mechanism. Despite advanced features like a 2000 RPM burst fire rate and integrated optics, its development was ultimately halted by geopolitical shifts and cost concerns.

This video demonstrates the assembly and live-fire of the German 1936 pattern light mortar (L.Gr.W.36). It highlights the mortar's leveling mechanism for accuracy and the difficulty in visually tracking its 50mm projectiles after firing. The content showcases historical military hardware and its operational use.