From the Vault: The Colt 9.8 MM/.38 Experimental

This expert-level examination of the Webley-Fosbery Automatic Revolver, presented by Brownells, details its unique recoil-operated semi-automatic action, a significant innovation for its time around 1900. The review highlights its historical context as a potential military sidearm, its availability in calibers like .455 Cordite and .38 Automatic, and its popularity in competitive shooting due to its soft recoil and consistent single-action trigger.

This video provides an expert-level overview of the rare Colt Model 1910 pistol, presented by Brownells from the Rock Island Auction Company. Speakers Keith Ford and Steve Ostrem detail its historical significance as a precursor to the 1911, highlighting key design elements such as its adjusted grip angle, screwless grips, internal plunger system, and slim hammer. The presentation emphasizes John Browning's direct involvement in its development and trials, showcasing a significant piece of American firearm history.

This video from Brownells explores the historical Colt 1903 and 1908 Pocket Models, comparing them to the iconic Colt 1911. Gunsmiths Keith and Steve from Rock Island Auction Company showcase various examples, detailing differences in calibers (.32 ACP, .38 Automatic, .380 ACP) and design variations like barrel length and slide contours. The discussion highlights their early use as compact concealed-carry pistols, including those that were U.S. government property and the rare Japanese M1903 variants, emphasizing their appeal to collectors.

The Webley Model 1910 was a rare British semi-automatic pistol, produced in limited numbers around 1,000 units. It featured an innovative locked-breech design where the chamber acted as the locking lug, a concept now common in modern firearms. Despite its high quality and unique V-spring recoil system located in the grip, it failed to gain traction against the British preference for revolvers.

The .38 Super and 9mm Luger are historically distinct but perform similarly with modern ammunition. While 9mm offers superior ammo availability and fits smaller grips, the .38 Super provides higher velocity, making it a favorite for handloaders and custom 1911 builds, especially in competition shooting.

This video details the installation of a Geissele MK8 Super Modular Rail on an AR-15. Key steps include using a Geissele Reaction Rod for upper receiver stability, proper torquing of the proprietary barrel nut, and secure installation of the gas block and tube. The rail is then slid on and secured with two cross-bolts using a T-handle hex wrench. Final steps involve muzzle device installation and a thorough inspection.

Proper ammunition storage is crucial for maintaining reliability and safety. Avoid storing ammo in cardboard boxes in damp environments, as this leads to moisture absorption and corrosion. Utilize airtight containers like ammo cans and control humidity with desiccants like silica gel packs. Heat accelerates gunpowder and primer degradation, so store ammo at stable room temperatures. Reloading primers are particularly vulnerable to moisture and require strict airtight storage.

This video demonstrates how to upgrade an AR-15's A2 furniture to Magpul components. It details the removal of the A2 grip using a Bondhus hex set and the installation of a Magpul MIAD grip with interchangeable backstraps for improved ergonomics. The process also covers preparing and installing the Magpul PRS stock, highlighting its adjustable features for cheek weld and length of pull.

This video explores the custom Remington 11-87 shotgun used as a prop in 'No Country for Old Men.' The film required a semi-automatic shotgun with a suppressor, a combination not readily available at the time. Prop master Larry Zanoff details how a non-functional, 'homemade' looking suppressor was custom-built for the 11-87, with the iconic silenced sound effect achieved entirely in post-production.