Thompson SMG in 30 Carbine

This guide details the experimental modifications made to a Browning High Power to create a lightweight prototype, as presented by Ian McCollum on Forgotten Weapons. The process involved significant material removal from the slide and frame, and the use of an aluminum alloy frame to achieve a target weight of 25.5 oz. However, the modifications introduced durability concerns, particularly in the locking block area, which ultimately led to the project's termination.

This guide details the disassembly and analysis of the rare Golden State Arms Mystery Pistol, as presented by Ian McCollum. It covers the observation of its unique mechanisms, identification of missing components, and speculation on its design, highlighting its status as a handmade prototype. The analysis emphasizes the custom engineering and experimental nature of this pre-1958 firearm.

This video details the extremely rare .30-06 Thompson Submachine Gun prototype, a one-of-a-kind firearm previously considered mythical. Expert Brandon Herrera provides an in-depth look at its unique features, including a modified BAR magazine and a complex colleted bolt friction-delay system designed for the higher pressure .30-06 cartridge. The prototype's historical context and auction results are also discussed, highlighting its significance as a museum-quality artifact.

This guide details the operation of the experimental spacer magazine system on the Remington-Keene rifle, a rare prototype designed to prevent magazine detonations. Ian McCollum, demonstrating high expertise, explains the function of spacer disks within the tubular magazine and the automatic cocking mechanism. The rifle's design highlights early attempts to address centerfire ammunition safety concerns before the widespread adoption of box magazines.

This guide details the internal modifications made to the 1921 Thompson to create the 1928 model, focusing on reducing the rate of fire. Expert analysis from Ian McCollum highlights the addition of weight to the actuator and changes to the recoil spring assembly. These modifications were crucial for meeting U.S. Navy requirements and demonstrate a key aspect of the Thompson's development history.

This guide details the disassembly and mechanical overview of the Mauser Volkspistole, a rare late WWII German pistol. Expert Ian McCollum demonstrates its features, including its Walther P38 magazine compatibility, experimental gas-delayed blowback system (later converted to straight blowback), simple trigger mechanism, and unique barrel sleeve for a braided spring. The video highlights the engineering efforts for 'last ditch' weapons.

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.