How Does it Work: Blowback Action

This experiment tests Newton's Third Law by using firearm recoil to propel a kayak. Larger calibers like the .50 BMG and sustained fire from an AK-47 provided the most significant propulsion. The .338 Lapua Magnum's muzzle brake was observed to potentially reduce backward force.

The Colt SMG, a 9mm variant of the AR-15 platform, was developed to compete with the HK MP5 for law enforcement. It features a closed-bolt, blowback action, distinct from the AR-15's direct impingement system. Modifications include Uzi-based magazines with AR-style release notches and a bolt hold-open feature, a plastic gas deflector, and upgraded fire control pins for durability.

This video debunks the Hollywood myth of bullets sending people flying backward. It explains that real-world ballistics, governed by Newton's third law, mean a bullet's impact energy is insufficient to physically move a human body significantly. The focus is on penetration rather than kinetic transfer for incapacitation.

The Kolibri is the world's smallest production firearm, chambered in 2.7mm. Despite its size, it features a blowback action and a detachable magazine typically holding 5 rounds. Historically marketed for self-defense, its effectiveness was limited even at the time of its production.

The Serbu GB-22 is presented as the world's simplest firearm, featuring a unique rocking slide mechanism. This video demonstrates its basic operation, including loading a .22 LR round and firing, showcasing its blowback action and slide lock-back feature. The design emphasizes simplicity and ease of assembly.

This video features an unboxing and overview of the Beretta M9A1 airsoft pistol. It highlights the replica's resemblance to the U.S. military sidearm, emphasizing features like the tactical rail, metal slide, and blowback action. The description clarifies that this is an airsoft replica for recreational use and not a real firearm, and includes a disclaimer about responsible use, safety, and compliance with YouTube policies. It aims to appeal to both collectors and airsoft players.

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.