The Guns of John Pedersen

This guide details the installation and basic operation of the extremely rare Pedersen Device, a WWI-era conversion for the M1903 Mark 1 Springfield rifle. Experts from Brownells explain how the device transforms the bolt-action rifle into a semi-automatic, blowback-operated firearm chambered in the proprietary .30 Pedersen cartridge, emphasizing the significant modifications required for the rifle and the device's unique 40-round magazine system. The rarity of surviving units is also highlighted.

This guide details the field stripping process for the rare Japanese Pedersen Rifle, as demonstrated by Ian McCollum on Forgotten Weapons. It highlights the unique disassembly method involving a spring catch and a single cross-pin to remove the complex toggle-lock assembly. The process is noted as being significantly easier than on the British Vickers version.

This video provides an expert-level comparison of the rare Pedersen GX and GY rifles, prototypes developed by John Pedersen in 1939 as a final attempt to compete with the M1 Garand. Ian McCollum details key differences in their gas systems (gas trap vs. gas port) and clip compatibility (proprietary vs. standard M1 en bloc clips). The GY represents a refinement towards military standardization, while the GX retains earlier design elements. Production was extremely limited, with only about 10-12 of each model made.

This guide details the disassembly and reassembly process for the Remington Model 12C .22 pump-action rifle. It covers the takedown procedure using the thumbnut, the removal of the bolt for cleaning, and the reassembly steps. The video emphasizes proper handling of the thumbnut and the importance of keeping the firearm clean, especially due to potential pitting from corrosive ammunition.

This TFBTV video provides a field strip of the Remington R51 pistol, a re-release of the John Pedersen-designed Model 51. Despite previous less-than-ideal reviews of the R51, the video focuses on its unique hesitation-locked mechanism during disassembly. The content aims to show any wear on the internal components of the firearm. The description also thanks Ventura Munitions and Proxibid for their support and encourages viewers to check out TFBTV's Patreon page.

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.