EP 199: Tiny A.F. | A New Skunkwerks Project

Published on January 28, 2026
Duration: 88:50

This video details the development of a compact, folding rifle project, codenamed 'ATF'. The team discusses the selection of the 6mm ARC cartridge for short barrels, load optimization, custom bolt work, and the engineering challenges of integrating a folding stock. The project emphasizes rapid prototyping and iterative design, drawing on extensive experience to create a highly compact and capable firearm system.

Quick Summary

The Gunwerks 'ATF' project focuses on a compact folding rifle using the 6mm ARC cartridge, ideal for short barrels (10-12 inches). Key development areas include optimizing loads with faster-burning powders, modifying bolt faces, and integrating a robust folding stock mechanism through rapid prototyping and rigorous testing.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to Gunwerks Skunkworks
  2. 00:31The 'ATF' Project Kickoff
  3. 01:06Skunkworks Philosophy and Inspiration
  4. 04:00Sprint Approach vs. Long-Term Development
  5. 05:29Evolution of Long-Range Shooting Ethos
  6. 08:04The Trend Towards Shorter Barrels
  7. 10:05Understanding Terminal Performance
  8. 13:39Short Barrels and Terminal Ballistics
  9. 14:47Project Requirements: Compactness and Capability
  10. 16:31Initial 6.5 Creedmoor Prototype
  11. 19:28Evaluating Cartridge Options: 338 ARC vs. 6mm ARC
  12. 22:026mm ARC: Efficiency and Powder Burn
  13. 23:32Load Optimization for Short Barrels
  14. 26:02Challenges with 6mm Bullet Base Area
  15. 27:06Bolt Face and Extractor Modifications for 6mm ARC
  16. 29:27Magazine Options and Single Feeding
  17. 29:59Barrel Selection: C60 Contour
  18. 31:14Forend Length and Barrel Clearance
  19. 32:34Velocity Data: 11.25-inch Barrel Performance
  20. 33:15Factory Ammo vs. Optimized Loads
  21. 35:00Extreme Spreads in Short Barrels
  22. 35:50Increasing Twist Rate for Heavier Bullets
  23. 36:24Terminal Performance Thresholds
  24. 39:21VLD Hunting Bullet Performance at Distance
  25. 40:15Ballistics Solvers and Supersonic Range
  26. 43:036XC Cartridge Effectiveness and Terminal Ballistics
  27. 44:33Source of Truth in Firearms Information
  28. 48:03The Folding Stock Development
  29. 49:08Rapid Prototype Development: Hinge Mechanism
  30. 50:08Drop Testing and Durability Assessment
  31. 51:33The Importance of Scopes in Drop Testing
  32. 52:30Evolution of Prototyping Capabilities
  33. 57:38Infrastructure and Team Capabilities
  34. 58:47Innovation vs. Copying in the Industry
  35. 60:11Designing New Benchmarks for Innovation
  36. 61:03Skunkworks Projects: Inspiration and Learnings
  37. 63:24Investment in Team and Knowledge Pays Off
  38. 64:05Hinge Material Selection: Steel vs. Aluminum
  39. 65:52Folding Mechanism Angle and Compactness
  40. 67:18Hinge Placement: Tang vs. Grip
  41. 69:36Folding Mechanism Intention: Transport and Storage
  42. 70:11The 'ATF' Package: Suppressor and Optic
  43. 71:22The 'ATF' Package: Alcohol and Tobacco Components

Frequently Asked Questions

What cartridge is recommended for Gunwerks' compact folding rifle project?

The 6mm ARC cartridge is recommended for Gunwerks' compact folding rifle project due to its efficiency in short barrels (10-12 inches) and ability to maintain accuracy up to 500 yards. It balances case capacity and performance for this application.

What are the key considerations for optimizing ammunition for short-barreled rifles?

For short barrels, faster-burning powders are preferred to maximize the pressure curve's efficiency before bullet exit. This helps achieve better velocity and reduce muzzle blast. Load development should focus on specific barrel lengths and bullet weights for optimal performance.

How does Gunwerks approach rapid prototyping for new firearm components like folding stock hinges?

Gunwerks utilizes an integrated team of design engineers and master machinists. They can go from concept to functional prototype in as little as two weeks by leveraging advanced CAD software, CNC machining, and iterative testing, including rigorous drop testing.

What are the benefits of the 6mm ARC cartridge in a short-barreled rifle?

The 6mm ARC offers excellent efficiency in short barrels, allowing for good powder burn and accuracy up to 500 yards. It can achieve velocities around 2300-2500 fps with 105-grain bullets from an 11.25-inch barrel and remains supersonic beyond 1100 yards.

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