Live Q&A - June 15, 2024

This video reviews 17 newly announced firearms, highlighting innovative features and practical applications. Key releases include the ultra-reliable Sacko ARG50GP for extreme conditions, the historically significant CMP M1 Garand, and the budget-friendly Smith & Wesson M&P22X for training. The Smith & Wesson Model 940 J-frame revolver at number seven generated significant buzz for its return after 27 years, its 9mm Luger chambering, and the elimination of the internal lock, making it economically viable for practice. The CZ 600 series is showcased with its modular Alpha model at number one, offering interchangeable barrels and a lifetime warranty at an accessible price point.

This episode of 'Bust Your Builds' features a panel of firearm enthusiasts reviewing community-submitted custom gun builds. They discuss aesthetics, functionality, and component choices, offering scores and critiques on various AR-15, AK, and other rifle platforms. The hosts highlight unique modifications, popular accessories, and potential areas for improvement, providing insights into current trends and expert opinions on firearm customization.

This video offers a direct comparison between the PSA AK-P (5.56mm) and the Zastava M85 (7.62x39mm) from an experienced shooter's perspective. The host highlights key differences in caliber and furniture, while emphasizing the Zastava M85's exceptional 'flattest shooting' performance, especially when suppressed. Viewers are encouraged to consider their own preferences based on these factors.

This video showcases a rare Glock 17 Gen 5 chambered in 9mm, specifically manufactured for the French Army. It features a unique coyote tan finish, similar to the Glock 19X, and includes military contract identifiers like a lanyard loop and European markings. The firearm is presented as a collector's item due to its rarity and limited availability in the US, especially as a Gen 5 model.

This video provides an overview of the new production Smith & Wesson Model 36 Classic revolver. The speaker, an experienced firearms enthusiast, highlights its classic American design, steel frame, and five-shot .38 Special capacity. While acknowledging its suitability for personal defense, the presenter positions it primarily as a fun collector's item for plinking and display, contrasting it with more modern J-Frame options for concealed carry.

This video reviews the Ruger M77 Hawkeye Alaskan Bush Rifle chambered in .35 Whelen. The presenter, Hickok45, provides an in-depth look at the rifle's features, including its laminate stock, stainless finish, and iron sights. He discusses the .35 Whelen cartridge's history and effectiveness for big game hunting, particularly for North American species like bear and moose. The review also covers practical aspects such as shooting impressions, recoil, and potential ammunition issues, offering a comprehensive overview for potential buyers.

This video offers a highly critical, historically grounded analysis of the M14 rifle's shortcomings, attributing its failure to flawed US Ordnance Corps decisions regarding cartridge standardization and weapon design. The speaker, an expert in small arms, details how political motivations and resistance to innovation led to the adoption of an inadequate weapon system, contrasting it with superior alternatives like the AR-10 and FN FAL. The analysis highlights the detrimental impact of these decisions on US military effectiveness, particularly in Vietnam.

This expert-level entry details the M16's troubled introduction in Vietnam, debunking myths of inherent design flaws. It highlights how political decisions, procurement issues, and ammunition choices, rather than the core design by Eugene Stoner, led to early reliability problems. The entry emphasizes the mechanical evolution from the AR-15 to the M16A1 and the critical role of chrome lining, proper maintenance, and correct ammunition in establishing the platform's eventual success.

This guide, drawing on the expertise of a former Colt employee and AR-15 SME Hank Tatro, details the critical role of AR-15/M16 buffers. It explains how buffer design evolved to manage bolt carrier bounce caused by increased firing rates and different ammunition types. The guide emphasizes selecting the correct buffer for specific firearm configurations and warns against improper mixing and matching, particularly for duty applications. It covers standard rifle and carbine buffers, as well as H, H2, H3, and specialized 9mm buffers, providing insights into their construction and application.

This comprehensive review by Chris Bartocci, a recognized expert with extensive military armory experience, debunks common myths surrounding the Beretta M9/92FS. Bartocci details the pistol's history, including its selection over the M1911, and addresses controversies like slide failures, attributing them to ammunition and high usage rather than design flaws. He highlights the evolution of critical components like the locking block and discusses magazine reliability issues, offering practical insights for owners and enthusiasts.