History of the M16A2 & What Did Stoner Think?

This video delves into the historical competition between the Ruger Mini-14 and the AR-15, explaining how the Mini-14 outsold the AR-15 in the early 1980s due to its affordability and traditional design appeal. The host, demonstrating high expertise, showcases modern Mini-14 features like the Samson folding stock and bayonet lug, while also comparing its accuracy to the AR-15.

This video from Guns Blazing Ranch provides a direct comparison between 5.56mm M193 and M855 'green tip' ammunition. Demonstrations show the significant difference in penetration power against a cinder block, with M855 exhibiting superior destructive capability. The content highlights practical differences relevant to firearm enthusiasts.

This expert-level comparison by Ian McCollum of Forgotten Weapons evaluates the sound differences between a real XM-177 moderator and a fake flash hider, using a standard M16 as a baseline. The testing highlights the extreme loudness of the fake flash hider and references historical military data to underscore the effectiveness of the original XM-177 moderator in reducing both flash and sound.

Elliott Delp recommends the Daniel Defense DD M4 V9 as a $1500 rifle, noting its $1600 sale price is justified by its quality. He highlights the cold hammer-forged barrel's accuracy, the Radian Raptor charging handle, and the rifle's durable Cerakote finish. The V9 features a Picatinny handguard, while the V7 offers M-LOK.

Colion Noir reviews the Ruger Harrier, an AR-15 platform rifle priced around $600, arguing it's sufficient for most users. He highlights its modern aesthetic, tight upper/lower lockup rivaling more expensive models, and balanced handling. The review targets the 'guy who just wants a rifle' rather than a project build, emphasizing its value as a reliable, modern, and adaptable firearm.

Amber and Doshie from Exile Armory showcase a wide array of new firearms and accessories. The video features various pistols, rifles, shotguns, and suppressors from brands like FN, Q, Bergara, Springfield Armory, and Beretta, with detailed pricing and some technical specifications provided. The presentation is casual and informative, highlighting new inventory for customers.

This video critically analyzes the M14 rifle, arguing its failure stemmed from the US Ordnance Corps' insistence on the 7.62x51mm NATO cartridge over superior intermediate rounds. The speaker details how political and traditionalist influences, including the alleged sabotage of the AR-10, led to the M14's adoption despite its shortcomings in combat, particularly in Vietnam.

This video meticulously details the M16's troubled introduction in Vietnam, tracing issues from early design flaws and procurement politics to ammunition choices. It highlights how non-chrome chambers, incorrect twist rates, and the switch to ball powder exacerbated reliability problems, contrasting with the later M16A1's successful fixes like chrome lining and proper maintenance.

This video delves into the critical role of AR-15 buffers, explaining their function in managing bolt carrier bounce and ensuring reliability across various conditions. It details the evolution from early rifle buffers to specialized H, H2, and H3 carbine buffers, highlighting the use of tungsten for increased mass. The content also covers unique applications like 9mm blowback systems and provides practical advice on buffer selection for different firearm configurations.

This video debunks common myths surrounding the Beretta M9/92FS, detailing its history, military trials, and technical evolution. It addresses slide failures, attributing them to ammunition and high round counts, not design flaws. The review highlights improvements in locking blocks and magazine reliability, emphasizing the M9's enduring capability and safety features.