The Colt MARS and Centurion Resurrection of a Prodigy

This guide details the technical modifications involved in the Colt MARS PDW project, a miniaturized M4 variant chambered in a unique 5.56x30mm cartridge. It highlights the extensive part alterations, including receivers and internal components, and explains the rationale behind Colt's decision to shelve the project. The revival by Centurion Arms is also noted. Instruction is provided by Chris Bartocci, a recognized expert on the AR-15/M16 platform.

This guide details the construction of the Centurion Arms MK12 Mod M 'MINI', a compact variant of the renowned MK12 platform. Drawing on the expertise of Monty LeClair, a 20-year SEAL sniper, the process involves using a 12.5-inch barrel, reduced buffer tube and stock, a PRI top rail, and a Trajectory Arms Ops Inc. style suppressor. The focus is on replicating the precision and aesthetic of the original MK12 in a more manageable size.

This entry details the unique rearward-pulling feed system of the Czechoslovakian sa81 KRASA PDW, as explained by Ian McCollum. The mechanism draws cartridges backward from the magazine before they are chambered. Only two examples of this ultra-compact firearm were ever produced.

This video features Klay showcasing five of his personal AK builds, offering a deep dive into custom modifications and accessory choices. The builds range from a defensive SLR 107 FR to a competition K101, a 9mm AKX-9, a Draco suppressor host, and a Mini Beryl PDW. Klay, a recognized expert in the Kalashnikov community, provides technical details on parts compatibility, tuning, and intended use for each firearm.

This guide details the field stripping and reassembly process for the CBJ-MS submachine gun, as demonstrated by Ian McCollum. It covers removing the bolt carrier group, recoil spring, and stock, emphasizing a simple, robust design derived from Swedish firearms heritage. The process highlights the weapon's stamped stainless steel receiver and its compatibility with accessories like M16 bipods.

This guide details the disassembly and operational mechanics of the FN P90, as explained by Ian McCollum of Forgotten Weapons. It covers the simple blowback action, the unique rotary magazine feeding system, ambidextrous controls, and the bottom-ejection port. The P90's design emphasizes a compact, lightweight platform for its intended role as a Personal Defense Weapon.

This video offers a highly critical, historically grounded analysis of the M14 rifle's shortcomings, attributing its failure to flawed US Ordnance Corps decisions regarding cartridge standardization and weapon design. The speaker, an expert in small arms, details how political motivations and resistance to innovation led to the adoption of an inadequate weapon system, contrasting it with superior alternatives like the AR-10 and FN FAL. The analysis highlights the detrimental impact of these decisions on US military effectiveness, particularly in Vietnam.

This expert-level entry details the M16's troubled introduction in Vietnam, debunking myths of inherent design flaws. It highlights how political decisions, procurement issues, and ammunition choices, rather than the core design by Eugene Stoner, led to early reliability problems. The entry emphasizes the mechanical evolution from the AR-15 to the M16A1 and the critical role of chrome lining, proper maintenance, and correct ammunition in establishing the platform's eventual success.

This guide, drawing on the expertise of a former Colt employee and AR-15 SME Hank Tatro, details the critical role of AR-15/M16 buffers. It explains how buffer design evolved to manage bolt carrier bounce caused by increased firing rates and different ammunition types. The guide emphasizes selecting the correct buffer for specific firearm configurations and warns against improper mixing and matching, particularly for duty applications. It covers standard rifle and carbine buffers, as well as H, H2, H3, and specialized 9mm buffers, providing insights into their construction and application.

This comprehensive review by Chris Bartocci, a recognized expert with extensive military armory experience, debunks common myths surrounding the Beretta M9/92FS. Bartocci details the pistol's history, including its selection over the M1911, and addresses controversies like slide failures, attributing them to ammunition and high usage rather than design flaws. He highlights the evolution of critical components like the locking block and discusses magazine reliability issues, offering practical insights for owners and enthusiasts.