50 BMG Flare Gun???

Published on February 28, 2018
Duration: 11:10

This guide details an experimental attempt to fire a .50 BMG round from a 12-gauge Orion flare gun. The video demonstrates the challenges of igniting a .50 BMG primer with a standard flare gun mechanism and explores an alternative ignition method using a BB gun. The experiment highlights safety considerations and the technical difficulties of such modifications, as advised by instructor Edwin Sarkissian.

Quick Summary

Firing a .50 BMG round from a 12-gauge Orion flare gun proved challenging due to insufficient primer ignition force. While the casing fits, the flare gun's firing pin couldn't reliably ignite the .50 BMG primer. An experimental BB gun striker also failed to ignite the main propellant charge, highlighting the specialized requirements for such ammunition.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: 50 BMG Flare Gun Concept
  2. 00:45Baseline Test: Flare vs. Melon
  3. 02:42Setting up the .50 BMG Experiment
  4. 04:28First Attempt and Misfire
  5. 06:31Alternative Method: BB Gun Trigger
  6. 08:03Final Test and Results

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a .50 BMG round be fired from a 12-gauge flare gun?

While a .50 BMG casing fits into a 12-gauge flare gun barrel, igniting the primer is a significant challenge. The flare gun's firing pin typically lacks the force needed, and even alternative methods like a BB gun strike may not ignite the main propellant charge.

What safety precautions are necessary for experimental firearm tests?

For experimental firearm tests, especially those involving modifications or unusual ammunition, using remote triggers is crucial. This allows the operator to maintain a safe distance from the device during ignition attempts, minimizing risk.

Why did the .50 BMG round fail to fire in the flare gun?

The .50 BMG round's primer requires a specific amount of impact energy to ignite. The Orion flare gun's firing pin mechanism, designed for smaller flare primers, likely did not deliver sufficient force, leading to misfires.

What tools were used in the .50 BMG flare gun experiment?

The experiment utilized an Orion 12-gauge flare gun, a .50 BMG tracer round, ballistic gel for testing, a melon for baseline damage, and a Crosman-style BB/pellet pistol as an alternative ignition striker. A remote trigger was also employed for safety.

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