Small Arms of the Cold War: NATO Battle Rifles - Book Now Shipping!

This live Q&A session covers a wide range of firearms topics, including handgun comparisons (Beretta PX4 vs. 80X), AR-15 component tuning (buffer weight), rifle platform discussions (LMT MARS CQB, Colt 6940P, Vz 58), optic magnification recommendations, and the nuances of piston vs. direct impingement systems. The discussion also delves into specific firearm models like the Colt AR-15, Caracal CMP9, SCAR 17, M203, M14, FN FAL, and DS Arms FAL, alongside ammunition performance and historical firearms analysis. Expert insights are provided on barrel lengths, gas systems, and the evolution of small arms technology.

This entry details the book 'Small Arms of the Cold War: Battle Rifles of NATO' by Ian McCollum of Forgotten Weapons. It covers over 60 authentic battle rifles from NATO and Western democracies, focusing on the period from the 1950s to the 1980s. The book features detailed information on iconic firearms like the FN FAL, G3, M14, and AR-10, alongside lesser-known variants and prototypes, drawing from museum collections worldwide.

Forgotten Weapons announces the upcoming release of 'Battle Rifles of NATO,' a new book focusing on Cold War small arms. Shipping is slated for early December, with US orders expected first. The book features detailed photography and technical information on iconic rifles like the FN FAL, M14, and AR-10.

This Q&A session from Forgotten Weapons covers a wide range of firearms topics, from NFA regulations and the nuances of MP5 clones to essential preparation for shooting competitions like Desert Brutality. Host Ian McCollum discusses firearm zeroing, equipment reliability, and the historical development of various weapon systems, including the AK-47, M1 Garand, and FG 42. The discussion also touches on modern firearm design, optics, and the future of platforms like the AR and AK.

This video delves into a hypothetical scenario where the FN FAL (designated T48 in US trials) was adopted over the M14 (T44), and subsequently, the M16. It explores the historical context of post-WWII firearm development, NATO standardization efforts, and the critical decisions that led to the M16's adoption. The expert analysis highlights the technical merits and drawbacks of the T48 and M14, the impact of cartridge choices, and the long-term consequences for US military small arms.

This video explores 10 lesser-known facts about the FN FAL battle rifle, highlighting its global adoption, nickname 'The Right Arm of the Free World,' and its original design intent versus its eventual chambering. It details the FAL's role in NATO standardization debates, its production by various countries, and its combat performance, including issues faced by Israeli forces. The summary also touches on its eventual decommissioning and the impact of US import laws on its availability.

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.