Enjoying Black Powder Episode 6: Berdan II

This entry details the Maroszek wz.38M, a Polish WW2 battle rifle discussed by Ian McCollum on Forgotten Weapons. It covers the rifle's unique tilting bolt mechanism, fixed magazine, integrated muzzle brake, and safety markings. The expert-level analysis highlights its historical context within Polish military trials.

This entry details the Armalite AR-17, a rare 12-gauge shotgun highlighted by its exceptionally light weight (under 5.5 lbs) and innovative aluminum construction. Expert Ian McCollum provides an analytical breakdown of its short recoil action, unique 10-lug rotating bolt derived from AR-10/AR-15 designs, and its two-round capacity. The construction features an aluminum barrel with a steel trunnion to manage firing pressures, positioning it as a unique piece in firearm history.

This video provides an expert overview of the Big Kahuna Firearms Raptor 50, a .50 BMG rifle. The instructor, demonstrating experienced authority, details its single-feed bolt action mechanism, compatibility with AR-15 lowers for ease of assembly and affordability, and showcases its impressive power through concrete block and water jug penetration tests. The performance is explicitly compared to a standard AR-15, highlighting the Raptor 50's significantly greater damage potential.

This expert-level entry details the Szecsei & Fuchs Double Barrel Bolt Action Rifle, presented by Ian McCollum of Forgotten Weapons. The rifle is chambered in .416 Remington Magnum and features a unique dual trigger system, a robust bolt with six locking lugs, and a specialized dual-stack magazine for an 8-round capacity. Its design combines aspects of double-barrel shotguns with bolt-action rifles for dangerous game applications.

This video provides an expert-level review of the Berdan II rifle, focusing on its bolt action mechanics. The instructor, demonstrating deep knowledge, highlights the 45-degree bolt throw, the notably small and least useful bolt handle encountered, and a heavy trigger pull. The review also touches on practical shooting experience, noting the rifle's tendency to become sticky quickly during use, contrasting it with other firearms.

This video showcases the 'Kraken,' a custom-built, seven-barrel Nock Volley Gun, demonstrating its capabilities and extreme recoil. The presenter, Scott from Kentucky Ballistics, fires the weapon at various targets, including sodas, a ham, bulletproof glass, and body armor, detailing the significant recoil (340 lbs) and the weapon's destructive power. The video also touches upon the historical context of Nock Volley guns and the presenter's personal history with a severe firearm accident.

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.