From the Vault: The Howa AR-18/180

This video provides a breakdown of the Orthos Joker, a piston-driven, magazine-fed, semi-automatic 12-gauge shotgun featuring AR-style controls. The presenter highlights the ambi safety, mag release, and bolt catch, noting the bolt catch's unique hold-open feature. The shotgun is shown with an Eotech optic and YHM Victor 12 silencer, though these are aftermarket additions.

This video provides an overview of the new Palmetto State Armory (PSA) AXR rifle, a modular, piston-driven platform presented at SHOT Show. The presenter highlights its similarity to the SIG MCX, its folding stock, and its modular Fire Control Unit (FCU). The review focuses on the rifle's build quality and aesthetic appeal across different configurations.

This video provides a first look at the IWI ARAD, a rifle designed to offer HK416-like performance at a more accessible price point. The reviewer highlights its piston-driven system, semi-monolithic upper, and AR-15 compatible lower, noting its smooth operation and soft recoil. While acknowledging the aesthetic disconnect between the modern upper and standard lower, the reviewer explains IWI's rationale for cost reduction. Initial testing showed zero malfunctions with 200 rounds fired, and accuracy was under 2 MOA at 100 yards.

Noreen Firearms, a niche manufacturer from Belgrade, Montana, specializes in AR-type semi-automatic rifles in calibers larger than standard. At SHOT Show 2018, they showcased their innovation, including a new semi-automatic .408 CheyTac rifle, reportedly the only one in existence. Their proprietary piston system, mounted in the front of the upper receiver, offers a cleaner and more accurate shooting experience by directly striking the carrier and eliminating barrel harmonics. The company also highlighted their work with SOCOM on a .338 Lapua Magnum rifle for a specialized remote-firing application.

This video reviews several compact, piston-driven rifles that offer superior Close Quarters Battle (CQB) performance compared to traditional AR-15s. The Sig MCX Spear LT, Tavor X95, Springfield Hellion, CZ Bren 2, BNT APC223, LWRC ICPSD, and IWI Carmel are highlighted for their maneuverability, reliability, and rifle-caliber performance in confined spaces. The presenter, Ted from Line 45, emphasizes their advantages for AR shooters seeking a more purpose-built CQB platform.

This video from the IWA 2026 show features a comprehensive look at new firearms and accessories from various manufacturers. Key highlights include Schmeisser's piston-driven SPF-15 and delayed-recoil DRS9, Taurus's RPC PCC, Kel-Tec's KP50, and VGD's roller-delayed pistol. The review also covers Tisas's DS9 and Nightstalker pistols, Bull Armory's modular 1911 triggers and SOF/TAC Comp pistols, OMS's modular pump-action shotgun, and Unity Tactical's Fast Bridge accessory.

This guide details the installation of a Geissele MK8 Super Modular Rail on an AR-15 platform. It covers securing the upper receiver, installing the barrel nut, gas system, and the rail itself, emphasizing the use of specialized tools and proper torque specifications. The process requires an intermediate skill level and careful attention to detail for a secure and functional build.

This guide, based on expert instruction from Brownells, details essential practices for proper ammunition storage. It emphasizes using airtight containers, managing humidity with desiccants, and maintaining stable temperatures to ensure ammunition reliability and safety. Proper storage is crucial for preventing corrosion and propellant degradation, especially for sensitive components like primers.

This guide details the process of upgrading an AR-15 from standard A2 furniture to Magpul components. It covers the removal of the A2 pistol grip and installation of the Magpul MIAD Grip and Magpul PRS Stock. The video demonstrates efficient assembly using specialized tools, highlighting the ergonomic benefits and adjustability of the Magpul parts. Instruction is provided by Brownells, a recognized industry authority.

This entry details the creation of a movie prop suppressor for a Remington 11-87 used in 'No Country for Old Men.' Prop master Larry Zanoff explains how the suppressor was designed to look homemade and was non-functional, with sound effects added in post-production. The process highlights the creative problem-solving involved in film armory.