How Does it Work: Gas-Delayed Blowback

This video from Brownells, filmed at Rock Island Auction Company, provides an expert look at two significant WWII German rifles: the StG 44 and the Volkssturmgewehr 1-5. The hosts detail the StG 44's advanced design, its influence on modern firearms like the AR-15 and AK-47, and its unique 8mm Kurz caliber optic. They also cover the Volkssturmgewehr 1-5 as a 'last ditch' weapon, highlighting its gas-delayed blowback system and compatibility with StG 44 magazines. The presentation showcases deep historical and technical knowledge of these rare firearms.

This video by Ian McCollum of Forgotten Weapons delves into the technical reasons behind the rarity of double-feed handguns. He explains the mechanics of single-feed versus double-feed magazines, their respective advantages and disadvantages in terms of reliability, ease of loading, and design complexity. The discussion highlights why single-feed designs are generally preferred for handguns, while double-feed remains prevalent in rifles.

This video provides a historical overview of Austrian military sidearms, tracing their evolution from the Steyr 1907 to modern Glock pistols. It highlights key technological advancements like the safe-action principle and discusses the performance and adoption of various models, including the Steyr 1912, Colt 1911, Walther P38, Steyr GB, and Glock 17. The expert, with a background in weapon systems engineering, offers insights into the design choices and historical context of each firearm.

This Q&A session from Forgotten Weapons covers a wide range of firearms topics, from hypothetical military procurement sabotage and fixing existing arsenals to the nuances of collectible firearm pricing and the historical appeal of German small arms. Expert Ian McCollum discusses practical solutions for Elbonia's weapon issues, the best ways to research firearm values, and the reasons behind German firearms' popularity. The discussion also delves into specific firearm designs, operating systems, cartridge development, and the challenges of military adoption processes.

This Q&A episode of Forgotten Weapons covers a wide range of firearms topics, from historical cartridge choices and rifle designs to modern firearm development and practical advice. Ian McCallum addresses questions about the prevalence of .380 ACP versus .32 ACP military handguns, the design choices behind the SKS fixed magazine, and the effectiveness of different bipod designs. He also delves into the history and practicality of black powder firearms, the Mosin-Nagant's reputation, and the evolution of select-fire mechanisms like three-round burst. The discussion extends to modern firearm trends, such as red dots on pistols, and the challenges of designing effective firearms.

This June 2018 Q&A session covers a diverse range of firearm-related topics, including the Gemtech suppressed bolt carrier, historical firearms, Steyr GB gas system functionality, range maintenance, concealed carry backup strategies, long-range shooting series plans, and discussions on specific firearms like the Vz. 58, AK-74, and AR pistols. It also delves into ammunition development, including the .276 Pedersen and 5.45mm barriers to US manufacture, and touches on the SKS/M1 Garand's modern battlefield relevance. The video addresses firearm design comparisons, such as semi-auto vs. bolt-action in precision shooting and lever actions, and historical firearm adoption, like the M1903A3 vs. M1917. Other topics include flamethrowers on the modern battlefield, .30 Carbine in modern firearms, DMRs in squad compositions, OOB detonations in subguns, movie gun depictions, left-handed shooting challenges, and military hearing protection. Non-firearm related topics include a digital Bill of Rights, favorite films, and acclimation to Arizona weather.

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.