Live Q&A - November 11, 2020

This Q&A session covers various firearm-related topics, including the appropriateness of using a chrome bolt carrier group (BCG) in an XM177 build, the differences between Fort Scott and Lehigh Defense ammunition, and opinions on various rifle platforms. The discussion highlights that parts availability dictated configurations in historical builds, and modern ammunition technologies offer distinct performance characteristics.

This expert-level entry details the M16's troubled introduction in Vietnam, debunking myths of inherent design flaws. It highlights how political decisions, procurement issues, and ammunition choices, rather than the core design by Eugene Stoner, led to early reliability problems. The entry emphasizes the mechanical evolution from the AR-15 to the M16A1 and the critical role of chrome lining, proper maintenance, and correct ammunition in establishing the platform's eventual success.

This live stream features discussions on AK vs. AR platforms, handgun choices for EDC, ammunition recommendations, and AR-15 build components. The host, with law enforcement experience, shares insights on firearm reliability, practical applications, and personal preferences, emphasizing training and responsible ownership. Topics also touch on political figures and current events within the firearms community.

This episode of American Rifleman TV delves into the firearms of the Vietnam War, focusing on the introduction and evolution of the AR-15 and M16. It highlights the early adoption phases, distinguishing between Air Force and Army variants, and the eventual standardization of the M16 across all branches by 1968. The discussion also touches on the evolving nature of American military strategy in Vietnam, moving towards counterinsurgency.

This video offers a highly critical, historically grounded analysis of the M14 rifle's shortcomings, attributing its failure to flawed US Ordnance Corps decisions regarding cartridge standardization and weapon design. The speaker, an expert in small arms, details how political motivations and resistance to innovation led to the adoption of an inadequate weapon system, contrasting it with superior alternatives like the AR-10 and FN FAL. The analysis highlights the detrimental impact of these decisions on US military effectiveness, particularly in Vietnam.

This expert-level entry details the M16's troubled introduction in Vietnam, debunking myths of inherent design flaws. It highlights how political decisions, procurement issues, and ammunition choices, rather than the core design by Eugene Stoner, led to early reliability problems. The entry emphasizes the mechanical evolution from the AR-15 to the M16A1 and the critical role of chrome lining, proper maintenance, and correct ammunition in establishing the platform's eventual success.

This guide, drawing on the expertise of a former Colt employee and AR-15 SME Hank Tatro, details the critical role of AR-15/M16 buffers. It explains how buffer design evolved to manage bolt carrier bounce caused by increased firing rates and different ammunition types. The guide emphasizes selecting the correct buffer for specific firearm configurations and warns against improper mixing and matching, particularly for duty applications. It covers standard rifle and carbine buffers, as well as H, H2, H3, and specialized 9mm buffers, providing insights into their construction and application.

This comprehensive review by Chris Bartocci, a recognized expert with extensive military armory experience, debunks common myths surrounding the Beretta M9/92FS. Bartocci details the pistol's history, including its selection over the M1911, and addresses controversies like slide failures, attributing them to ammunition and high usage rather than design flaws. He highlights the evolution of critical components like the locking block and discusses magazine reliability issues, offering practical insights for owners and enthusiasts.