From the Vault: Wild Bill Hickok's Colt 1851 Navy

The Little Tom is highlighted as the world's first Double Action Only (DAO) automatic pistol, featuring a unique bi-directional magazine loading system. Its barrel disassembly involves pushing it back to release an oval lug from a dovetail slot. The internal mechanism demonstrates a specific trigger bar and hammer interaction for DAO operation.

The .22 Short, often underestimated, possesses surprising capabilities when understood within its historical context and design intent. Contrary to its 'weakest round' reputation, it demonstrates significant penetration and material destruction, especially in high-velocity loads. Historically, it served as a legitimate self-defense cartridge and later found utility in shooting galleries and Olympic competitions, showcasing its accuracy and controllability.

This expert analysis debunks common misconceptions about the .22 Short cartridge, revealing its historical significance as a self-defense round and its surprising modern performance. The .22 Short, often dismissed as weak, demonstrates effective penetration and material destruction capabilities when tested under realistic conditions, challenging its 'plinking only' reputation.

Dragonman's Military Museum is reopening with guided tours starting April 26th. The museum boasts an extensive collection of historical firearms, including Revolutionary War flintlocks and Civil War muskets, alongside a vast array of military vehicles from WWII through the Vietnam era and beyond. Visitors can expect to see authentic weaponry, operational vehicles, and detailed dioramas, offering a comprehensive look at military history.

This video provides a comprehensive historical overview of handgun evolution from 1805 to a 2025 concept, showcasing loading and firing procedures for iconic models. It highlights the progression from muzzle-loaders like the Harper's Ferry Pistol to modern semi-automatics and revolvers, demonstrating key operational differences and calibers. The expert narration offers insights into the historical context and technical aspects of each firearm.

This video from Legacy Collectibles explores the historical significance and collectible value of 'presentation guns,' specifically Walther PP and PPK models inscribed with names and affiliations. The expert host details two examples: a Walther PPK belonging to 'Pg. Scheck,' a mayor of Garmisch-Partenkirchen, and a Walther PP linked to Giuseppe Gelormini, an Italian fascist associate of Mussolini. The discussion highlights how the notoriety of the inscribed individual significantly impacts a firearm's market value, contrasting famous figures with average soldiers. The host also touches on the negative impact of defaced firearms on their provenance and value.

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.