BXP: Blowback eXperimental Parabellum

This video from Forgotten Weapons, hosted by Ian McCollum, details the manufacturing failures of the Mamba pistol. It highlights a severe lack of experience and coordination, leading to numerous technical problems and ultimately, a failed project. The analysis draws on historical production meeting minutes and direct examination of various Mamba variants.

This guide details the field stripping process for the Vektor Z88 and SP1 pistols, manufactured in South Africa under license and through reverse-engineering of the Beretta 92. The video, presented by Ian McCollum of Forgotten Weapons, emphasizes the importance of understanding the design differences between the Z88 (a direct Beretta 92 clone) and the SP1 (a redesigned export model). The process involves ensuring the firearm is unloaded, manipulating the slide lock lever, and separating the slide, barrel, and recoil assembly from the frame. This procedure is crucial for routine maintenance and cleaning.

This guide details the operation of the rare Becker Blow-Forward Revolving Shotgun, as explained by firearms expert Ian McCollum. It covers the unique blow-forward barrel action, manual loading and ejection processes, and safety features. The information is derived from expert analysis of a historical firearm, emphasizing its mechanical rarity and operational sequence.

This guide details the disassembly and reassembly process for the rare Paramax, a South African semi-automatic firearm. It highlights key differences from its predecessor, the LDP Kommando, particularly in its construction and internal components. The process involves removing barrel nuts and caps, and careful attention to the bolt assembly and barrel orientation.

This guide details the disassembly and operational aspects of the Vektor H5, a South African pump-action rifle based on the Galil design. It highlights the simplified internals, the spring-assisted pump action, and the modified bolt carrier, emphasizing the civilian-legal adaptations made by Vic Cronje. The process requires an Allen key for top cover removal.

This guide details the disassembly of the South African Kommando, also known as the 'Rhuzi'. The video, presented by Ian McCollum of Forgotten Weapons, highlights the firearm's unique two-piece bolt design and open-bolt operation. It covers field stripping for maintenance and understanding the internal mechanics, emphasizing its semi-automatic nature for self-defense.

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.