Stoner 63, 63A, & Mk23: History and Mechanics

This video provides an expert-level deep dive into the Stoner 63, 63A, and Mk23 series firearms, focusing on their unique modular design and mechanical intricacies. The presenter, Ian McCollum, highlights the system's core innovation: a single receiver configurable into multiple weapon types, from light machine guns to rifles, by altering feed mechanisms and bolt configurations. The explanation emphasizes the engineering genius behind its ability to switch between open-bolt (for machine gun roles) and closed-bolt (for rifle roles) firing modes using interchangeable parts within the same receiver housing.

This guide details the disassembly and reassembly of the rare Colt CMG-3 light machine gun, as demonstrated by Ian McCollum. It covers removing the barrel, bolt carrier group, and the unique sliding pistol grip charging mechanism. The video highlights the stamped steel receiver, electron beam welding, and internal components like the hydraulic buffer and symmetrical firing pin.

This guide details the field stripping process for the Bushmaster Assault Rifle, a 1970s design influenced by the Stoner 63A. The video highlights its unique gas system and the separation of upper and lower receivers via two pins. It emphasizes the importance of removing the gas system retention bracket and disassembling the bolt carrier group for maintenance. The instruction comes from Ian McCollum, a recognized expert in historical firearms.

This guide details the examination of early SA80 (L85) prototypes, including wooden mockups and functional conversions of Sterling AR-180 and Stoner 63 rifles. It highlights key design elements like the bullpup configuration, straight-line stock, and trigger linkage, offering insights into the rifle's developmental stages. The information is presented with high authority by Ian McCollum, drawing on access to historical archives.

This guide details the field stripping and configuration changes for the Robinson Armament M96 Expeditionary Rifle, a semi-automatic clone of the Stoner 63/63A. It covers disassembly of the barrel, bolt carrier group, and trigger group, highlighting the M96's unique internal mechanics and long-stroke piston system. The guide also explains the process for converting the rifle to the top-fed 'Bren' configuration, emphasizing the modularity of the platform. Instruction is provided by an expert with high authority in military-style firearms.

This video provides a detailed field strip and disassembly of the Robinson Armament M96, a clone of the legendary Stoner 63 rifle. The Stoner 63 is highlighted for its historical significance with the US Navy SEALs in Vietnam, its highly configurable design (rifle, top-feed, belt-fed), and its rarity today. The M96 is described as a high-quality clone produced between 1999 and 2011, featuring stamped stainless steel receivers. The video emphasizes that while components are not interchangeable with originals, the M96 is a well-built rendition. The presenter confirms it's a semi-automatic, 20-inch barrel, non-restricted firearm in Canada, and that they are properly licensed to possess it.

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.