Rheinmetall MG42/59: The Slow-Fire Commercial MG42

The T44 LMG prototype, a 1946 Springfield Armory project, combined German FG42 and MG42 components to explore post-WWII US light machine gun concepts. Developed by Bridge Tool & Die Works, it aimed to test the feasibility of merging these designs, influencing the later T52 and ultimately the M60.

The T44, a 1946 prototype, represents the initial developmental stage of the M60 machine gun. It uniquely combines the receiver and barrel of a German FG42 with the top cover and feed system of an MG42. Key modifications include a roller lug on the bolt for the MG42 feed mechanism and a custom stock, with the receiver altered to accommodate the bolt's travel.

The M240 Bravo, the US Army's FN MAG variant, replaced the M60. It features a simple cross-bolt safety and a unique top cover mechanism with a spring-loaded roller bearing for reliable cycling. The hydraulic buffer in the stock effectively manages recoil, contributing to its stable operation at a rate of fire around 600 rounds per minute.

This review from TFB TV explores Sako's new AR-15 platform rifles, designated ARG 40 and ARG 50. These rifles are being adopted by the Finnish and Swedish militaries as service and sniper rifles, respectively. The review highlights their direct impingement and piston operating systems, ambidextrous features, and accuracy standards, offering insights into Sako's advanced firearm manufacturing.

Clint Morgan provides an expert review of the DS Arms SA58 Improved Battle Rifle, highlighting its evolution from a classic design to a modern platform. He details its technical specifications, ergonomic enhancements like an ambidextrous magazine release and adjustable stock, and its performance with the .308 cartridge. Morgan also touches upon the historical context of the FAL and advocates for Second Amendment rights, specifically referencing Gun Owners of America's efforts.

This video from Banana Ballistics explores the capabilities of two distinct Israeli-made rounds: the N4-61 tear gas bullet and the M61 armor-piercing round. The host, demonstrating high expertise in ballistics, conducts penetration tests against steel, concrete, and ballistic gel, comparing their effectiveness. The M61 round shows significant penetration power, while the N4-61 demonstrates its tear gas dispersal capabilities.

This video details the unique 'French Finger Trap' issue with the MAS-36 rifle's bayonet, where two rifles can become unintentionally locked together. A 1951 French arsenal memorandum identified this problem, proposing a simple modification to the bayonet handle. Drilling a small hole allows a tool, like a firing pin, to depress the internal spring, enabling the separation of locked rifles.

The M134 Minigun is a scaled-down 7.62 NATO rotary cannon, requiring 24V DC power and consuming 1.5 kW. Its high rate of fire (3,000+ RPM) is essential for aircraft engagement windows. The complex delinker mechanism is critical for feeding ammunition, and practical hand-held use is impossible due to weight and recoil. Live fire demonstrates rapid ammunition consumption and the need for indirect aiming.

The H&K G11 is a revolutionary prototype assault rifle designed in the late 20th century, notable for its caseless ammunition and unique rotating drum bolt mechanism. Despite advanced features like a 2000 RPM burst fire rate and integrated optics, its development was ultimately halted by geopolitical shifts and cost concerns.

This video demonstrates the assembly and live-fire of the German 1936 pattern light mortar (L.Gr.W.36). It highlights the mortar's leveling mechanism for accuracy and the difficulty in visually tracking its 50mm projectiles after firing. The content showcases historical military hardware and its operational use.