Q&A #11: Rockin' Like It's 1950!

Published on June 27, 2017
Duration: 83:27

This Q&A session covers a wide range of firearms topics, from the least pleasant guns to shoot (Liberator, pistol-grip 12 gauge) to favorite showcased firearms (Howa Type 100). Discussions delve into cartridge development (6.5mm vs. 30 caliber, 280 British, 8x33mm Kurz, 41 AE, 38 Rimfire), firearm design principles (cylinder gap, blowback actions, hexagonal barrels, suppressors), military designations, and historical conflicts where rifle technology played a significant role (Austro-Prussian War). The host also touches on practical advice for two-gun shooting in restrictive states and personal collection goals.

Quick Summary

The Liberator singleshot .45 caliber pistol is cited as one of the least pleasant guns to shoot due to its light weight firing a heavy cartridge, poor recoil absorption, and the potential for the grip seam to pinch flesh. Pistol-grip-only 12 gauge shotguns are also extremely painful, with recoil directed straight back into the hand.

Chapters

  1. 00:05Introduction & Patreon Support
  2. 00:34Least Pleasant Guns to Shoot: Liberator & Pistol-Grip 12 Gauge
  3. 02:50Favorite Firearm to Showcase: Howa Type 100
  4. 03:436.5mm vs. 30 Caliber Cartridges: Military Choices
  5. 05:36Revolver Cylinder Gap and Bullet Velocity
  6. 08:01The 280 British Cartridge: Potential and Limitations
  7. 12:48Military Firearm Designation Systems Explained
  8. 16:02Two-Gun Shooting in Restrictive States
  9. 19:47Breida PG Model 1935: Italian Trials Rifle
  10. 21:11.303 British Projectile Construction & Ballistics
  11. 25:01History and Evolution of Firearm Suppressors
  12. 27:41Modern Firearm Markings and Proofs
  13. 29:01Competent Firearm Designs That Didn't Catch On: EM2 Rifle
  14. 30:15Most Effective Non-Detachable Magazine Loading Systems
  15. 32:32Evolution of .38 Caliber Cartridge Revolvers
  16. 34:24Historical Conflicts Where Rifle Tech Was Decisive
  17. 37:38Meetups and International Travel Plans
  18. 39:29M1/M14 vs. AR-Style Safety Designs
  19. 41:18Why the Madsen Machine Gun Saw Limited WWI Use
  20. 42:56Bucket List Firearms: RSC 1918 & Left-Handed EM2
  21. 46:35First Intermediate Ammunition: 8x33mm Kurz?
  22. 49:08Origin and Failure of the 41 Action Express Cartridge
  23. 53:52Decline of Water-Cooled Machine Guns
  24. 57:38Strong Springs in Simple Blowback Firearms
  25. 60:41Why Hexagonal Barrels Are No Longer Common
  26. 62:40Pistol Design: Cartridge and Action Recommendations
  27. 65:16Limited Development of Bottleneck Pistol Cartridges
  28. 67:51Female Firearm Designers and Contributions

Frequently Asked Questions

What are considered the least pleasant guns to shoot?

The Liberator singleshot .45 caliber pistol is cited for its unpleasant recoil and potential to pinch flesh. Pistol-grip-only 12 gauge shotguns are also extremely painful due to direct recoil into the hand, leaving shooters sore for days.

What was Ian's favorite firearm to showcase on Forgotten Weapons?

Ian's favorite firearm to showcase was the Howa Type 100, a semi-automatic conversion of a Lee-Enfield rifle. He enjoyed being able to shoot it and capture high-speed videography of its operation, noting its rarity.

Why did smaller militaries favor 6.5mm cartridges over larger calibers at the turn of the century?

While the exact reasons are debated, the 6.5mm cartridges used by smaller militaries were arguably more advantageous. There's a trend towards returning to 6.5mm calibers, suggesting their effectiveness has been recognized over time.

How does the cylinder gap in revolvers affect bullet velocity?

The cylinder gap allows some gas to escape, but powder continues to burn and generate pressure after the bullet passes it. This pressure increase is greater than the loss through the gap, allowing bullets to continue accelerating down the barrel.

What are the best firearm loading systems if detachable magazines are prohibited?

If detachable magazines are not allowed, stripper clips (Mouser style) and Mannlicher style clips are the most effective. Stripper clips are generally preferred as they can be used to top off box magazines, offering more versatility.

More General Videos You Might Like

More from Forgotten Weapons

View all →