New Products: Arsenal, Magpul and Brownells

This review showcases the AK105 (SLR 105) rifle, highlighting its side-folding stock and wood furniture. The demonstration includes loading a 30-round bakelite magazine with 5.45x39mm ammunition and performing live-fire exercises at an outdoor range. The video emphasizes safe handling and proficient weapon manipulation.

The 5.56 AK offers a compelling alternative to traditional AK calibers, driven by the availability and affordability of 5.56/.223 ammunition. While not a new concept, its modern iteration provides a reliable platform with a proven history. Key considerations include potential magazine standardization issues and the inherent overgassing of AK platforms, which can be mitigated with aftermarket parts like adjustable gas pistons. Despite some purist criticism, the 5.56 AK appeals to those who prefer the AK's ergonomics and manual of arms while leveraging common ammunition.

The AK market has shifted, with fewer inexpensive imports and parts kits. Top-tier options include Arsenal and Zastava, known for quality and robustness. The classic Romanian WASR-10 remains a reliable choice. American-made options from PSA, Kalashnikov USA, and Riley Defense offer modern alternatives catering to different budgets and needs.

This video compares the 7.62x39mm and 5.45x39mm calibers, primarily in AK platforms. While 7.62 offers more close-range energy and affordability, 5.45 provides superior long-range ballistics, lower recoil, and faster follow-up shots due to its higher velocity and lighter projectile. Gel testing reveals distinct wound channel characteristics for each caliber, with 5.45's tumbling effect proving particularly devastating.

This video explores the spectrum of AK platforms, from traditional builds with surplus wood furniture to highly modernized rifles featuring tunable gas systems and advanced optics. It highlights the 'restomod' concept, blending classic aesthetics with modern performance, and showcases specific builds like a Definitive Arms D47-63R and a custom Draco. The host emphasizes personal preference in AK customization, balancing purist views with the advantages of contemporary upgrades.

This video explores the complexities of AK stock types, highlighting that solid, underfolder, and sidefolder stocks are not easily interchangeable due to specific receiver cuts and trunnions. Brandon Herrera demonstrates how different stock mechanisms affect ergonomics, magazine compatibility, and the significant effort required for conversions, advising enthusiasts to own multiple AKs rather than attempting complex modifications.

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.