Ask Ian - What Was the Best WW2 Rifle Cartridge?

This video provides a demonstration of an original, re-welded StG-44 (MP-44) in 8mm Kurz. The presenter, identified as an expert enthusiast, showcases both semi-automatic and full-automatic firing capabilities at an outdoor range. The demonstration highlights the historical significance and functional aspects of the world's first assault rifle.

This YouTube video showcases the top 5 World War II rifles that are legally available for civilian ownership. The description indicates a structured presentation with timestamps for each rifle, including honorable mentions. The content focuses on historical firearms and their accessibility to collectors and enthusiasts. The video is produced by Classic Firearms, a known entity in the firearms community, suggesting a professional approach to the subject matter.

This review examines Haenel's simplified StG45(H) prototype, designed to reduce manufacturing costs through extensive use of stampings. Key modifications include relocating the recoil spring to the top of the receiver and a simplified bolt carrier design. While intended for mass production, the actual functional performance of this specific prototype remains undocumented.

The MKb-42(W) represents Walther's early attempt at the German Sturmgewehr concept, leveraging their expertise in sheet metal stamping. Key features include a distinct magazine hold-open, a riveted stamped handguard, and a gas piston system operating the bolt. It offered both semi-automatic and full-automatic fire modes, controlled by separate selectors.

This video explores the compatibility of 8x33mm Kurz ammunition with standard AK-47 magazines. While 8x33K fits into AK magazines, capacity is reduced to 26-27 rounds due to the wider case. Internal magazine dimples, designed for 7.62x39mm, can cause feeding issues with the shorter 8mm Kurz rounds. AK-74 and Galil magazines are generally unsuitable.

Palmetto State Armory is releasing a new STG-44 reproduction at SHOT Show 2023, available in multiple calibers including 8mm Kurz, 7.62x39, 5.56, and .300 Blackout. The rifle features user-convertible calibers via a mechanism under the handguard and a STANAG compatible magazine well for the 5.56 version. It is expected to release in 2023 with an MSRP over $2,000 and comes suppressor-ready with threaded barrels.

This video details the unique 'French Finger Trap' issue with the MAS-36 rifle's bayonet, where two rifles can become unintentionally locked together. A 1951 French arsenal memorandum identified this problem, proposing a simple modification to the bayonet handle. Drilling a small hole allows a tool, like a firing pin, to depress the internal spring, enabling the separation of locked rifles.

The M134 Minigun is a scaled-down 7.62 NATO rotary cannon, requiring 24V DC power and consuming 1.5 kW. Its high rate of fire (3,000+ RPM) is essential for aircraft engagement windows. The complex delinker mechanism is critical for feeding ammunition, and practical hand-held use is impossible due to weight and recoil. Live fire demonstrates rapid ammunition consumption and the need for indirect aiming.

The H&K G11 is a revolutionary prototype assault rifle designed in the late 20th century, notable for its caseless ammunition and unique rotating drum bolt mechanism. Despite advanced features like a 2000 RPM burst fire rate and integrated optics, its development was ultimately halted by geopolitical shifts and cost concerns.

This video demonstrates the assembly and live-fire of the German 1936 pattern light mortar (L.Gr.W.36). It highlights the mortar's leveling mechanism for accuracy and the difficulty in visually tracking its 50mm projectiles after firing. The content showcases historical military hardware and its operational use.