I Have This Old Gun - Russian RPD

Published on June 16, 2015
Duration: 5:23

This video provides an overview of the Soviet RPD light machine gun, detailing its development, technical features, and historical service. It highlights the RPD's role as a squad automatic weapon, its gas-operated, belt-fed mechanism, and the innovative flap-locking system designed by Vasily Degtyaryov. The discussion also touches upon its strengths, such as reliability and chrome-lined components, and weaknesses like the noisy drum magazine and lack of a quick-change barrel, noting its extensive use in conflicts like the Vietnam War.

Quick Summary

The Soviet RPD light machine gun, developed by Vasily Degtyaryov, fires the 7.62x39mm cartridge. It features a gas-operated, belt-fed mechanism with a unique flap-locking system and a chrome-lined barrel. While praised for reliability and simplicity, its drum magazine can be noisy, and it lacks a quick-change barrel.

Chapters

  1. 00:01Introduction: I Have This Old Gun
  2. 00:22Development and the 7.62x39mm Cartridge
  3. 00:36The RPD Light Machine Gun
  4. 00:44Soviet Development of the RPD
  5. 00:52RPD Operating Mechanism
  6. 01:04RPD Belt Feed System
  7. 01:07RPD Weight and Role
  8. 01:19Designer Vasily Degtyaryov
  9. 01:39Degtyaryov's Flap Locking System
  10. 02:01Bolt Carrier and Locking Action
  11. 02:17Reliability of the Locking System
  12. 02:34RPD as Standard Soviet Squad Automatic
  13. 02:56Weaknesses: Magazine System Noise
  14. 03:14Open Top Design and Dirt
  15. 03:29RPD Disassembly
  16. 03:37Chrome Lined Chamber and Barrel
  17. 03:52International Production of RPD Derivatives
  18. 04:07RPD Service in Vietnam
  19. 04:29Criticism: Lack of Quick-Change Barrel
  20. 04:51Anecdote: RPD Reliability in Dirt
  21. 05:03Sponsor Segment: Universal Coin and Bullion

Frequently Asked Questions

What caliber is the Russian RPD light machine gun?

The Russian RPD light machine gun is chambered in the 7.62x39mm cartridge. This cartridge was developed in the closing days of World War II and also served as the basis for other iconic Soviet firearms like the SKS-45 rifle and the AK-47.

Who designed the Soviet RPD light machine gun?

The RPD light machine gun was designed by Vasily Degtyaryov, often referred to as the 'John Browning of Russia.' He was known for his innovative designs, particularly his use of flap-locking systems in firearms.

What are the main features of the RPD's operating mechanism?

The RPD is a gas-operated, belt-fed squad automatic weapon. Its unique locking system utilizes movable flaps mounted in the bolt, which are horizontally actuated by a wedge on the bolt carrier into recesses machined into the receiver.

What were some of the key strengths and weaknesses of the RPD?

Strengths include its lightweight design for a belt-fed weapon, chrome-lined barrel and chamber for durability, and simple breakdown. A noted weakness is the noisy drum magazine, which can reveal the gunner's position, and the absence of a quick-change barrel.

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