From the Vault: RPD (Russian Degtyaryov)

This video details the firearms and tactics of the NVA and Viet Cong during the Vietnam War, featuring insights from Colonel Greg Dillon. It covers the reliability of the AK-47 in adverse conditions, the use of SKS carbines by designated marksmen, and the deployment of RPGs as light artillery. The discussion also touches upon mortar systems, improvised explosives, and heavy machine guns like the DShK.

This video, titled "PKM aka Angry Babushka," likely focuses on the PKM machine gun, referencing its common nickname. Given the title and description alone, it is expected to be a content piece related to firearms, potentially a review, historical overview, or demonstration of the weapon. The "Angry Babushka" moniker suggests a potentially engaging or narrative approach to discussing the firearm.

This content details the dangerous experiences of Aliia Roza, a former Russian intelligence operative. It covers her realization of being compromised as a mole, a violent ambush orchestrated by her commander's protege, and the political motives behind her kidnapping. The narrative highlights the high stakes and betrayals within intelligence circles.

This episode debunks the 'Red Sparrow' stereotype of spies, with Aliia Roza clarifying that Russian agents are referred to by military rank, not 'spy.' The conversation humorously suggests the podcast itself serves as a perfect cover for former intelligence operatives. Visuals include clips from 'Red Sparrow' and archival footage, highlighting the public's fascination with espionage narratives.

This video details the combat-driven necessity for the 30-round magazine, highlighting how its adoption provided a critical firepower advantage. It covers personal accounts from Vietnam, the initiative taken by soldiers like John Plaster to procure these magazines before official military adoption, and their eventual standardization. The narrative emphasizes how battlefield experience directly influenced firearm development and tactical equipment.

This video showcases the Russian PKM light machine gun in a live-fire demonstration. It highlights the PKM's reliable belt-fed mechanism firing the 7.62x54mmR cartridge and its iconic Cold War-era Soviet design. The demonstration emphasizes controlled burst fire and safe weapon handling.

This video details the installation of a Geissele MK8 Super Modular Rail on an AR-15. Key steps include using a Geissele Reaction Rod for upper receiver stability, proper torquing of the proprietary barrel nut, and secure installation of the gas block and tube. The rail is then slid on and secured with two cross-bolts using a T-handle hex wrench. Final steps involve muzzle device installation and a thorough inspection.

Proper ammunition storage is crucial for maintaining reliability and safety. Avoid storing ammo in cardboard boxes in damp environments, as this leads to moisture absorption and corrosion. Utilize airtight containers like ammo cans and control humidity with desiccants like silica gel packs. Heat accelerates gunpowder and primer degradation, so store ammo at stable room temperatures. Reloading primers are particularly vulnerable to moisture and require strict airtight storage.

This video demonstrates how to upgrade an AR-15's A2 furniture to Magpul components. It details the removal of the A2 grip using a Bondhus hex set and the installation of a Magpul MIAD grip with interchangeable backstraps for improved ergonomics. The process also covers preparing and installing the Magpul PRS stock, highlighting its adjustable features for cheek weld and length of pull.

This video explores the custom Remington 11-87 shotgun used as a prop in 'No Country for Old Men.' The film required a semi-automatic shotgun with a suppressor, a combination not readily available at the time. Prop master Larry Zanoff details how a non-functional, 'homemade' looking suppressor was custom-built for the 11-87, with the iconic silenced sound effect achieved entirely in post-production.