Q&A #10: Collectible Surplus Guns, Dumb US Decisions, and Lots of French Stuff

This video, presented by firearms expert Ian McCollum of Forgotten Weapons, delves into the mechanics and historical application of gain twist (progressive twist) rifling in small arms. McCollum explains how this rifling technique, characterized by an increasing rate of twist from breech to muzzle, aims to improve bullet stability and prevent jacket separation, citing examples from early revolvers to modern high-powered handguns. The discussion highlights its use in specific firearms like the Carcano 1891 and S&W 460 X-frame, while also touching upon its effectiveness and historical context.

This book review delves into the technical memoir of Ott-Helmuth von Lossnitzer, Technical Director of the Mauser Company from 1933-1945. The book focuses on his extensive work in firearms research and development, particularly on aircraft cannons and early roller-delayed blowback designs. It also includes valuable appendices like Mauser's technical reports and an Allied intelligence assessment of the factory.

This video provides an in-depth look at the Spiller & Burr revolver, a significant Confederate martial firearm. Ian McCollum, a recognized expert, details its complex origins, design evolution from Colt to Whitney patterns, and the material challenges faced during production. The analysis highlights production failures, material shortages leading to the use of twisted iron for cylinders, and eventual government acquisition. A specific high-condition specimen is examined, showcasing its markings and unique features like gain twist rifling and a conical brass front sight.

This video provides an expert overview of the Italian Carcano rifle, detailing its history, technical specifications, and notorious association with the JFK assassination. Mark A. Keefe IV and other firearm historians discuss its design, including the unique gain twist rifling and en-bloc clip system, its service life, and its place in the collector market. The segment highlights the rifle's practical, albeit unrefined, nature and its controversial historical significance.

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.