Handmade Auto-Revolver

This video from Forgotten Weapons, hosted by Ian McCollum, details an experimental Thompson SMG chambered in .30 Carbine. Despite resembling a 1928 model, its rejection by the Ordnance Department was primarily due to its excessive weight (10-12 lbs unloaded), far exceeding military requirements for the M1 Carbine trials. The firearm's unique prototype status is highlighted by its serial number '1' and proprietary magazine.

This guide details the examination of a rare Walther PP pistol featuring a unique 'Shark Fin' grip extension. It covers the analysis of its construction, potential purpose as a prototype or custom modification, and the interpretation of its historical markings and dating. The information is presented with the authority of a recognized expert in collectible firearms.

This guide details the field stripping process for the rare Armalite AR-16, as demonstrated by Ian McCollum on Forgotten Weapons. It covers the disassembly of the bolt, recoil springs, and gas piston, highlighting the rifle's unique internal mechanisms. The AR-16 is presented as an important transitional design between the AR-10 and AR-18.

This video details the extremely rare .30-06 Thompson Submachine Gun prototype, a one-of-a-kind firearm previously considered mythical. Expert Brandon Herrera provides an in-depth look at its unique features, including a modified BAR magazine and a complex colleted bolt friction-delay system designed for the higher pressure .30-06 cartridge. The prototype's historical context and auction results are also discussed, highlighting its significance as a museum-quality artifact.

This guide details the disassembly and feature overview of the Springfield T20 rifle series, based on expert analysis by Ian McCollum. It covers key modifications from the M1 Garand, including select-fire capabilities, magazine adaptations, and grenade launcher integration. The video emphasizes the historical context and technical evolution of these prototypes, highlighting their role as a bridge to future rifle designs.

This guide details the field stripping and reassembly process for the ZKP-524, a rare Czech prototype pistol based on the 1911 design chambered in 7.62x25mm Tokarev. Expert Ian McCollum demonstrates the disassembly, highlighting unique features like the guide rod mechanism and the multi-function flat spring, while emphasizing the 1911-style procedure. Proper safety protocols are paramount throughout the process.

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.