Ask Ian: What is Headspace? (And Why It Matters)

This guide, based on expert analysis by Ian McCollum of Forgotten Weapons, details how to identify dangerous amateur headspace adjustments on an AK-type rifle. It focuses on inspecting the bolt's locking lugs and barrel for signs of grinding and improper machining. The video strongly emphasizes the extreme danger of such modifications and advises consulting a professional gunsmith if identified.

This entry details the safety assessment of a custom .50 BMG 1911, drawing on expert insights from Scott of Kentucky Ballistics. The video highlights the extreme risks associated with firing such a powerful round from a modified platform, emphasizing structural integrity and the potential for detonation. Scott's personal experience with a .50 BMG incident and resulting injury serves as a stark warning against shooting firearms with questionable safety features, particularly a "flimsy bolt" design.

This guide details a demonstration of the Nambu Type 94's critical design flaw: an exposed transfer bar/sear that allows for accidental hammer release. Expert instruction emphasizes safety precautions, including the use of dummy rounds and the avoidance of dry firing antique firearms. The demonstration highlights how pressure on this exposed mechanism bypasses the trigger safety, a known issue that persisted despite manufacturer awareness.

This guide details the step-by-step assembly and disassembly of the Ruger Red Label III Over/Under Shotgun, presented by Ruger Firearms. It emphasizes crucial safety precautions, including clearing the firearm and wearing safety glasses, before proceeding with the field stripping process. The instructions cover removing and reattaching the fore-end and barrel assembly, concluding with a functional check.

This guide provides expert-level instruction on cleaning the Ruger 10/22 rifle, emphasizing safety and proper technique. It covers bore cleaning, bolt maintenance, and component inspection to ensure reliable operation. The video demonstrates a step-by-step process suitable for intermediate skill levels.

This video explains the function of a revolver's gas ring, a component often overlooked but vital for firearm longevity and shooter safety. The gas ring sits at the front of the cylinder, protecting the ejector rod from flame cutting and, more importantly, shielding the shooter's hand from dangerous muzzle blast. Understanding this part's role is crucial for safe revolver operation.

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.