Q&A #13: Cameras, Surplus SMGs, Modern Rocket Balls, and More!

Published on September 11, 2017
Duration: 81:43

This Q&A episode from Forgotten Weapons covers a wide range of firearms topics, including the viability of belt-fed AR uppers, the historical development of intermediate cartridges, and the mechanics of recoil compensation in various firearms. Ian McCallum also discusses the Finnish military's adoption of Soviet weaponry, the effectiveness of rifle grenades versus bazookas, and the best bolt-action military rifle. The episode touches on the challenges of reproducing historical firearms like the Patterson device and the practicalities of concealed carry with antique handguns.

Quick Summary

Belt-fed AR uppers often face durability issues and lack sufficient space for robust components, making them less reliable for sustained military use than purpose-built light machine guns like the M249. Their upper receivers are typically too small to accommodate the necessary strength for high round counts.

Chapters

  1. 00:05Introduction & Patreon Support
  2. 00:22Belt-Fed AR Uppers: Viability & Durability
  3. 02:12Intermediate vs. Full-Power Cartridges: US Army Decisions
  4. 06:18Finnish Military Adoption of 7.62x39mm & Soviet Weaponry
  5. 08:13Mechanical Recoil Compensation: Beyond Muzzle Devices
  6. 10:46Krnka Pistols: Deep Dive Plans
  7. 11:37Surviving Examples of the Vampyr Monopere
  8. 12:38Arming Countries with Surplus Weapons
  9. 15:25Promising French Semi-Automatic Rifle Prototypes
  10. 17:52Best Concealed Carry Handgun with Historical Significance
  11. 19:41Viable Obsolete Cartridges
  12. 21:24Patterson Device: Complexity & Reproduction Challenges
  13. 27:02Viewer Firearm Submissions for Filming
  14. 28:05Best Bolt-Action Military Rifle Ever
  15. 29:08Lewis Gun's Forced Airflow Barrel Shroud Concept
  16. 30:52Spencer Carbine vs. Henry Rifle Advantages
  17. 31:42Pull-Through vs. Push-Through Belts & Link Types
  18. 34:37Recognition in Public: Travel Anecdotes
  19. 37:32Differences in Military Rifle Open Sights
  20. 40:08Stamped Metal vs. Polymer Construction for Firearms
  21. 41:59Thumbnail Swastika Controversy & Policy Changes
  22. 49:38Filmmaking Kit & Travel Gear
  23. 55:10How Burst Fire Weapons Work & Their Purpose
  24. 58:28Must-Have Firearms Books & DVD Sets
  25. 60:49Rifle Grenades vs. Bazookas: Advantages & Disadvantages
  26. 64:11Favorite Obscure WWII Rifles
  27. 65:36US Submachine Gun Surplus & NFA Acquisition

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main drawbacks of belt-fed AR uppers compared to dedicated LMGs?

Belt-fed AR uppers often face durability issues and lack sufficient space for robust components, making them less reliable for sustained military use than purpose-built light machine guns like the M249. Their upper receivers are typically too small to accommodate the necessary strength for high round counts.

Why did the US Army shift from intermediate cartridges to full-power 7.62 NATO after WWII?

The US Army's cartridge decisions were influenced by competing internal factions and the ability of certain groups to sway decision-makers, rather than a single, unified military doctrine. This dynamic led to shifts in preference over time, impacting cartridge adoption.

What is the best bolt-action military rifle according to Ian McCallum?

Ian McCallum considers the Model 1917 Enfield to be the best bolt-action military rifle ever fielded. He cites its exceptional durability, ruggedness, accuracy, chambering in .30-06, smooth and fast bolt throw, and superior aperture sights as key advantages.

Why didn't the Lewis gun's forced airflow barrel shroud concept become widespread?

The forced airflow barrel shroud concept of the Lewis gun was largely superseded by the simpler and more effective design of detachable barrels. While the shroud aimed to eliminate the need for barrel changes, it added significant weight and bulk, making detachable barrels a more practical solution for cooling and weight management.

What are the primary differences between push-through and pull-through machine gun belts?

Push-through belts are simpler for the gun's mechanism, allowing the bolt to push a cartridge directly into the chamber, but they are limited to metallic links and can be challenging with rimmed cartridges. Pull-through systems offer more flexibility in belt design but require more complex extraction mechanisms for the gun.

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