AK-50 UPDATE - February 2021

This guide details the field stripping process for the AK-50 V3 prototype, as demonstrated by Ian McCollum. It highlights the use of original AK components within a scaled-up .50 BMG platform and emphasizes the unique engineering challenges overcome. The process involves removing the dust cover, bolt carrier group, recoil spring, gas tube, trigger group, and pistol grip, showcasing the evolution from standard AK designs.

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 entry details the Haenel StG45(H) prototype, a simplified version of the Sturmgewehr designed for cost-effective mass production using sheet metal stampings. Key modifications include a top-mounted recoil spring and a simplified bolt carrier assembly, though its functional performance remains undocumented. The analysis highlights the innovative, albeit unproven, manufacturing techniques employed in this historical firearm design.

This video details the 'junkyard prototyping' failures and successes of the AK-50 V2. Key issues included cam groove and lug failures, under-gassed operation requiring port drilling, and magazine disengagement due to recoil. Thermal expansion also caused sluggishness. Redesigned parts with improved geometry and heat treatment are shown for the next iteration.

This video details the challenges encountered during the development of the AK-50 V5 prototype, specifically focusing on warped receiver rails that prevented its readiness for Shot Show. Lead instructor Brandon Herrera explains the design choices, including the justification for a cast receiver in this specific application due to the barrel extension bearing the primary stress. The update highlights the commitment to transparency in sharing both successes and failures.

This video details the process of modifying the AK-50's gas system to resolve brass deformation issues during extraction. The primary problem identified is excessive pressure at the point of extraction, caused by the gas port being too close to the chamber. The solution involves relocating the gas port further down the barrel, extending the gas tube and piston, and fabricating new components to achieve smoother cycling and extraction. The process includes welding the old gas port, installing a barrel extension, drilling a new port, and fitting extended gas system parts.

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.