Q&A December 2025: How I Write Books (and Much More)

Published on December 24, 2025
Duration: 90:10

This Q&A session covers a wide range of firearms topics, including the evolution of firearm design, the adoption of the Sig P320 by Switzerland, the pros and cons of high-pressure cartridges, the legal precariousness of FRTs and auto sears, the effectiveness of 338 Norma machine guns, comparisons of general-purpose machine guns like the FN MAG 58 and PKM, the book publishing process, firearm safety, and the technical aspects of firearm optics and camera gear. The discussion highlights the practicalities of firearm development, manufacturing, and use, as well as the challenges and considerations involved in creating and distributing firearms-related content and literature.

Quick Summary

Firearms design evolves through borrowing successful elements, with patents historically expiring after 15-20 years. The Sig P320's Swiss adoption was cost-driven, while high-pressure cartridges offer velocity at the expense of recoil and barrel life. The legal status of auto sears is precarious, and 338 Norma MGs are a lighter alternative to 50 BMG.

Chapters

  1. 00:03Intro & Whiskey
  2. 00:32Firearm Design & Technology Borrowing
  3. 08:07Sig P320 Swiss Adoption
  4. 10:45High Pressure Cartridges (7mm Backount)
  5. 13:45FRTs & Auto Seaters
  6. 18:51338 Norma Machine Guns
  7. 22:12FN MAG 58 vs. PKM
  8. 24:22Camo & Surplus Stores
  9. 27:07Project Greyburn Rifle Choice
  10. 29:14Galil vs. RK62 Magazines
  11. 31:19Collaborations & CN Arsenal
  12. 32:23MG42 vs. Modern GPMGs
  13. 33:47Firearm Safety & Handling
  14. 37:23Book Publishing Process
  15. 50:16Suomi KP31 Conversions
  16. 52:23Handgun Porting Effectiveness
  17. 54:27Non-Firearm Forgotten Weapons
  18. 55:10Filming Equipment & Setup
  19. 61:11Desert Tech Quad Stack Magazines
  20. 63:29P90 Magazine Design Issues
  21. 66:05Grot Rifle US Release Strategy
  22. 68:10Max Popanker AK Book Status
  23. 70:13Future Book Topics

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main challenges with high-pressure cartridges?

High-pressure cartridges aim for increased muzzle velocity but come with downsides like greater recoil and accelerated barrel wear due to higher heat and gas pressure at the muzzle crown, potentially degrading accuracy over time.

Why is the legal status of FRTs and auto sears considered precarious?

The legal standing of FRTs and auto sears is precarious because it's based on a single agreement not to prosecute, which could be overturned by executive action or a change in administration, leading to potential bans similar to bump stocks.

What makes the FN MAG 58 and PKM different for general-purpose machine guns?

The FN MAG 58 is favored for mounted roles due to its extreme durability and weight, while the PKM is preferred for man-portable use because it's lighter, uses a stamped receiver, and shares design principles with the AK platform.

How does the P90's rotating feed mechanism work, and why isn't it more common?

The P90's mechanism requires nearly cylindrical cartridges. Standard tapered cases, like 9mm Parabellum, cause extraction issues, necessitating proprietary straight-walled cartridges or specialized coatings, which outweighs the benefit of high-capacity magazines for most applications.

What is the process for publishing a firearms book like those from Headstamp Publishing?

Publishing involves gathering information, accessing firearms for photography (often by a dedicated photographer), writing, technical and grammatical editing, graphic layout, printing, and distribution, with access to rare firearms being crucial.

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