RN 50 Accident Preliminary Analysis

Published on May 12, 2021
Duration: 3:20

Mark Serbu provides a preliminary analysis of the RN-50 incident, debunking the 85,000 PSI failure rumor by calculating thread shear pressure at 161,520 PSI. He confirms production RN-50 breech caps are heat-treated, unlike an old prototype. The analysis suggests the failure was likely due to counterfeit SLAP ammunition, possibly loaded with incorrect powder, rather than a design flaw.

Quick Summary

The RN-50 incident analysis reveals the threads require 161,520 PSI to shear, debunking the 85,000 PSI rumor. Production breech caps are heat-treated. The failure was likely caused by counterfeit SLAP ammunition, possibly loaded with incorrect powder.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction & Incident Overview
  2. 00:11Pressure Calculations vs. Rumors
  3. 00:59Heat Treatment of Breech Caps
  4. 01:29RN-50 Safety Features Explained
  5. 01:46Counterfeit SLAP Ammunition Analysis
  6. 02:20Conclusion: Likely Cause Identified

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the calculated pressure required to shear the RN-50 threads?

Based on mechanical engineering analysis of the 1.5-12 threads in 4140 steel (Rockwell C30), the calculated pressure required to shear the threads is 161,520 PSI. This is significantly higher than the 85,000 PSI rumor.

Are RN-50 breech caps heat-treated?

Yes, all production RN-50 breech caps are fully heat-treated. An older prototype shown in a Royal Nonesuch video was not, but this does not reflect current manufacturing standards.

What likely caused the RN-50 firearm incident?

The preliminary analysis suggests the failure was likely due to ammunition issues. The SLAP rounds used appeared counterfeit and may have been loaded with incorrect powder, leading to detonation.

What are the safety features of the RN-50 receiver?

The RN-50 receiver includes secondary safety features known as 'ears'. These steel components provide additional containment and are robust enough to handle substantial bolt thrust on their own.

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