Bergmann No. 1 / 1894

This entry details the experimental CZ247 submachine gun from Czechoslovakia, featuring a unique swivel-action receiver and a progressive trigger. Expert Ian McCollum provides a technical breakdown of its simple blowback, open bolt operation, and innovative design elements aimed at maintaining accuracy. The explanation covers the charging handle, the rotating receiver tube, and the fixed sight system, offering insights into a rare piece of firearms history.

This video explores the enduring popularity of simple blowback firearms, particularly Pistol Caliber Carbines (PCCs), by comparing classic designs like the Uzi and Sterling to modern iterations such as the B&T APC9 and Daniel Defense PCC. The discussion highlights the trade-offs between the simplicity and affordability of blowback systems and the recoil reduction offered by more complex delayed-blowback or roller-delayed systems. It emphasizes how modern designs incorporate features like hydraulic buffers to improve shootability and controllability.

This video provides a comparative analysis of classic Heckler & Koch firearms like the MP5 and HK93 against their polymer-based successors, the G36 and UMP/USC. The discussion highlights differences in operating systems (roller-delayed blowback vs. gas piston vs. simple blowback), material construction (metal stampings vs. extensive polymers), and ergonomics. The presenter expresses a preference for the older roller-delayed designs due to their perceived superior shooting characteristics and durability, while acknowledging the lightweight advantage of polymer firearms.

This video introduces the 'Divided Matter' PCC from Lucansky Arms, a new generation PCC developed in the Czech Republic. It highlights the firearm's ambidextrous controls, AR-style ergonomics, and a unique 'divided matter' bolt carrier group designed to reduce felt recoil. The PCC is slated for a SHOT Show 2025 launch and aims to compete in the market segment occupied by the CZ Scorpion and Stribog.

This video provides a comprehensive overview of the Makarov pistol, detailing its history, design, and shooting characteristics. It highlights the pistol's robust simple blowback action, its 9x18mm Makarov caliber, and its single-action/double-action trigger mechanism. The review also touches on its capacity limitations and its suitability for collection and range use, with practical shooting impressions from the range.

This video provides an expert-level overview of the 1930s SIG MKPS submachine gun, presented by firearms historian Ian McCollum. It details the weapon's simple blowback operation, unique folding magazine, and exceptionally high cyclic rate of approximately 1350 rpm. The demonstration highlights its performance characteristics, magazine compatibility, and the challenges of controlled fire due to its design.

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.