Ask Ian: History and Development of Pinfire Cartridges

This video from Forgotten Weapons delves into the Pauly/Roux breechloading pistols, highlighting Samuel Pauly's 1808 patent for the first self-contained metallic-based cartridge and Henri Roux's subsequent improvements. Expert Ian McCollum details the innovative fire piston mechanism and striker-fired systems, discussing their historical context, mechanical principles, and eventual influence on later firearm designs. The presentation emphasizes the craftsmanship and historical significance of these early breechloaders, drawing from museum provenance.

This guide details the operation of the Pauly System pistol, a precursor to modern self-contained cartridges. It covers loading a percussion cartridge, the pivoting barrel mechanism, and the internal hammer-fired striker system. The video, presented by Ian McCollum of Forgotten Weapons, offers an expert look at this historical firearm innovation.

This guide details the operation of the revolutionary Pauly Breechloader Shotgun from 1812. It covers the loading of its unique self-contained cartridges and the firing mechanism, highlighting the significant advancements it represented over muzzleloading firearms. The video emphasizes the historical context and engineering ingenuity behind Samuel Pauly's invention.

This guide details the unique operation of the Pottet Shotgun, a precursor to modern shotgun shells. The firearm features a rotating and tipping breech-loader action, where the barrel assembly rotates 90 degrees to unlock and recock hammers, then tips open for loading and automatic extraction. The video, presented by Ian McCollum, highlights Clement Pottet's 1829 and 1855 patents and the shotgun's construction with Damascus steel barrels and a paper-bodied, metallic-base cartridge.

This guide details the unique operation of a Lefaucheux over/under shotgun, focusing on its sideways-pivoting breech blocks and removable buttstock. The demonstration by Ian McCollum, a recognized expert in historical firearms, highlights the intricate mechanical design of this rare piece. Viewers can learn about the specific loading procedure and the quick-detach stock mechanism.

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.