Ethiopian Modified Gewehr 88 Carbine

This video from Forgotten Weapons details a highly modified Mauser 1871 Carbine originating from Ethiopia. Expert Ian McCollum highlights dangerous modifications, including a re-chambering for smokeless powder with an inadequate original locking system, a crudely cut .30 caliber bore, and a fabricated stock. The rifle is deemed unsafe to fire due to these unsafe alterations.

This guide details the tool-less field stripping procedure for the rare Afghan Schlegelmilch Carbine, as demonstrated by Ian McCollum. The carbine features a unique bolt design and construction that allows for complete disassembly without tools, highlighting its innovative engineering for its time. McCollum, a recognized expert in historical firearms, provides a clear demonstration of its mechanical features.

This guide details how to approach and appreciate the unique collection of Ethiopian military surplus firearms recently imported by InterOrdnance. Expert Ian McCollum emphasizes understanding the diverse historical periods represented, from late 19th-century rifles to Cold War arms. Collectors are advised to assess condition realistically, recognizing that wear and tear are common, but the historical provenance, including markings from figures like Empress Taytu, offers significant value.

This guide details the field stripping process for the rare Schlegemilch Model 1896 rifle, a competitor to the Mauser 98. It highlights unique features like the bolt shroud, wrap-around handguard, and dovetail barrel attachment. The process involves removing the trigger group, bolt, and handguard for cleaning and inspection.

This guide details the expert preservation of a GEW 88 rifle stock, led by Mark Novak. It covers initial cleaning with soap and water, careful drying with heat and air, steaming out dents using a Monokote iron, and finishing with Danish oil. Novak emphasizes respecting historical markings and avoiding over-finishing, drawing on historical manufacturing data.

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.