Throwback Thursday: Dolf Goldsmith Reminisces About Destructive Devices

Dolf Goldsmith recounts his acquisition and use of Bofors 37mm antitank guns in the mid-20th century. He details purchasing multiple units for $200 each, along with ammunition for $0.50 per round. The guns were used for recreational shooting, including felling trees in upstate New York. Goldsmith also highlights the various accessories available, such as insert barrels for smaller caliber rounds (303 British and 6.5 Swedish) and blank firing attachments, demonstrating their versatility beyond their intended anti-armor role.

This video showcases a rare original US World War II 37mm M55 A1 target practice round, designed for the M4 Colt Browning Autocannon. The presenter details the cartridge case specifications and demonstrates the careful removal of an M56 F point detonating fuse, highlighting the historical significance of these components used in iconic aircraft like the P-39 Airacobra and P-63 Kingcobra.

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.