The Berthier Gets an Upgrade: The Model 1916

This guide details several ingenious field gunsmithing modifications performed on Berthier rifles imported from Ethiopia, as presented by Ian McCollum of Forgotten Weapons. These adaptations address the scarcity of original clips by creating internal clips, converting the rifle to a Mauser-like configuration, implementing external feed lips, and even adapting it to accept Lee-Enfield magazines. The video highlights the resourcefulness of Ethiopian gunsmiths in maintaining firearms in operational condition.

This guide details the visual identification of key modifications made to the Berthier M16 carbine after World War I, based on expert analysis. It covers changes in sights, sling attachments, serial number placement, clearing rod provisions, ammunition compatibility ('N' stamp), and late-production finishes ('PK' marking). Understanding these features is crucial for collectors and historians identifying specific production runs and upgrades.

This entry details the Modele 1890 Berthier Cavalry Carbine, a French military rifle designed by André Berthier. It highlights its development as a carbine successor to the Gras, its use of the Mannlicher-style clip system, and its production history. The guide provides a basic overview of bolt disassembly, emphasizing the need for careful handling and safety. Expert insights from Ian McCollum of Forgotten Weapons are included, noting the carbine's historical context and technical specifications.

This guide details the field stripping process for the French RSC Model 1917 semi-automatic rifle, as demonstrated by Ian McCollum of Forgotten Weapons. It covers the basic disassembly steps, including removing the rear end cap and bolt assembly, and highlights key features like the rotating bolt and gas system. The video emphasizes the importance of proper handling and understanding the rifle's mechanics.

This guide details the process of testing a Berthier rifle modified to accept an 18-round Chauchat magazine, as demonstrated by Ian McCollum of Forgotten Weapons. It covers loading, insertion, live-fire testing, and analysis of common malfunctions encountered due to the 8mm Lebel cartridge's taper and rimmed design in a box magazine configuration. The project highlights a fascinating historical curiosity but notes its practical unreliability.

This guide details the identification and mechanical features of a mystery Spanish revolver from the Rock Island Auction Company. It covers interpreting proof marks, caliber identification (8mm, possibly 8mm Lebel), and dating the firearm to 1931. Key mechanical aspects like the double-action operation, unique 7-shot swing-out cylinder with a gate release, and an unusual extractor star are highlighted. The video emphasizes the firearm's enigmatic nature, even to experts like Ian McCollum.

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.