SA80 History: L22A2 and Experimental L85 Carbines

This guide details the conceptual modification of the British SA80 (L85) bullpup rifle into a traditional rifle configuration, humorously dubbed 'The Jonathan Ferguson Special.' It highlights the visual and functional differences, drawing from expert insights on the SA80 platform's ergonomics and historical context. The demonstration showcases the feasibility of such a conversion.

This video provides an expert overview from Ian McCollum of Forgotten Weapons, detailing Murdoch & Co's initiative to produce new SA80 (L85) rifles in the USA. It covers the L85A3 as the modern UK MOD service rifle and introduces a 'Collector Series' using original parts. The project aims to preserve the rifle's history through 100% new production and the use of vintage components.

This guide provides an overview of the EIW97, an electronic ignition variant of the SA80. It details the external and internal modifications, including the electronic selector, modified bolt carrier, and the replacement of mechanical trigger components with electronic ones. The guide also touches upon the specialized ammunition and programmable nature of the system, based on expert insights from Jonathan Ferguson and Murray at the Royal Armouries.

This entry details the AKB-23, an AR-15 based bullpup reproduction of the SA80/L85, as presented at SHOT Show 2025. It highlights the use of billet aluminum construction, compatibility with bufferless uppers like the BRN-180, PSA Jackl, and FM-15, and its $800 price point. The guide covers the basic overview and installation considerations for this modular system, emphasizing its unique design and potential for customization.

Jonathan Ferguson, Keeper of Firearms & Artillery at the Royal Armouries, discusses the inherent design flaws of the L85A1/SA80 rifle, particularly the undersized ejection port. He explains that while improved quality control from Enfield might have reduced malfunctions, it wouldn't have solved the fundamental design issues. The video highlights the distinction between manufacturing defects and core design problems.

This entry details the final prototype stages of the British SA80 rifle, focusing on the XL70 series. It highlights significant reliability issues encountered during trials, stemming from design flaws and cost-cutting measures. Expert analysis from Ian McCollum underscores the impact of political pressure on the weapon's development and eventual production quality.

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.