AK-50: April 2020 Update

This entry details the development and testing of the AK-50, a custom .50 BMG rifle designed by Brandon Herrera. It covers the engineering challenges of scaling the AK platform, the transition from milled to stamped receivers, and the successful live-fire testing of the V3 prototype. The content highlights the expertise of Brandon Herrera in firearm design and manufacturing.

This video details the ambitious AK-50 project by Brandon Herrera, a 10-year endeavor to create a .50 BMG rifle with AK-inspired aesthetics and mechanics. It highlights the integration of parts from various platforms, such as the PK machine gun and Mag 58, to achieve specific functionalities like extraction softening. The build showcases a monolithic aluminum handguard and a unique double recoil spring system, demonstrating advanced custom firearm engineering.

This guide details the prototyping steps for the AK-50's stamped receiver, as presented by Brandon Herrera. It covers reviewing CAD designs, inspecting the front trunnion with PKM-spec rivets, and utilizing 3D printed dies for receiver dimpling. The process emphasizes adapting AK-style manufacturing techniques for a .50 BMG rifle on a budget.

This guide details the disassembly and comparison of Brandon Herrera's AK-50 V3 prototype, as presented by Matt Carriker of Demolition Ranch. It highlights the scaled-up components necessary for the .50 BMG caliber while retaining classic AK design elements in the trigger group. The video also features comparisons with an AK-47 and a .50 BMG pistol, along with testing of the Olight O-Sight optic.

This guide details the analysis of the AK-50's muzzle brake design, explaining how vent placement affects barrel whip. It also covers a practical test to debunk the myth that a .50 BMG shockwave can damage targets without direct impact. The insights are presented by Brandon Herrera, the lead designer, highlighting his deep technical expertise.

This entry details the developmental journey of the AK-50, a .50 BMG AK-style rifle, as explained by its designer, Brandon Herrera. It covers the V1 prototype's challenges, including gas port failures and heat treatment issues, and highlights design solutions like the triangular bolt face, assist spring, and dual recoil spring system. Herrera's candid discussion reveals significant engineering hurdles overcome through iterative design and a deep understanding of firearm mechanics.

Brandon Herrera, leveraging his expertise in firearms and historical testing, conducts a 'backyard science' experiment to test the JFK 'magic bullet' theory using a 6.5 Carcano. The video details the process of firing the rifle into ballistic dummies and water jugs to compare bullet deformation, offering insights into terminal ballistics and the complexities of the assassination's ballistics. Herrera's high authority in the firearms community is evident through his technical approach and knowledge of historical firearms and forensic evidence.

This video provides an expert-level look at the Pedersoli Baby Philadelphia Derringer, the type of firearm used by John Wilkes Booth to assassinate Abraham Lincoln. Brandon Herrera, demonstrating high authority and technical expertise, details the loading process for this black powder pistol and conducts ballistic tests using a beverage can and a ballistic dummy. The analysis includes high-speed footage of the projectile impact and examination of the recovered projectile, offering unique insights into historical ballistics.

This entry analyzes firearm mishaps presented in a 'Darwin Awards' style, emphasizing critical safety lessons. Instructor Brandon Herrera, a recognized firearm manufacturer and commentator, uses real-world examples to illustrate the severe consequences of ignoring basic gun safety rules. The content serves as a cautionary guide, highlighting common errors in handling, trigger control, and the dangers of seeking online notoriety through unsafe practices.

Brandon Herrera, a recognized firearms expert and manufacturer, uses high-speed footage and ballistic testing to analyze the assassination attempt on Donald Trump. The video aims to debunk conspiracy theories by demonstrating the ballistics of a 5.56mm round grazing an ear and the effectiveness of counter-sniper fire from a .300 Win Mag rifle. Herrera emphasizes the difficulty of precise shots at range and condemns political violence.