RN-50 Review with Royal Nonesuch

Published on November 26, 2020
Duration: 20:10

This video provides an in-depth review and historical overview of the RN 50 rifle, designed by Mark Serbu and named after Royal Nonesuch. Mark discusses the design origins, technical specifications, and production challenges, including the inspiration from the Stormgevare takedown pin and the decision to use a non-interrupted thread system for safety. He also shares trivia about the barrel shroud, breech cap, and hammer design, highlighting the modularity with AR-15 components and the rifle's compact transportability.

Quick Summary

The RN 50 rifle's takedown pin design was inspired by the Stormgevare, adapting a 1942 concept. Mark Serbu chose not to use interrupted threads for safety, as standard threads offer better retention if the breech cap isn't fully rotated. The rifle features AR-15 modularity for stocks and grips, and its takedown design allows for compact transport, fitting into a 36-inch case or even a backpack.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to the RN 50
  2. 00:07Naming and Royal Nonesuch
  3. 00:21Takedown Pin Installation
  4. 00:53Design Inspiration and Takedown Pin
  5. 01:16Takedown Pin Spring Production Issues
  6. 02:03Spring Machining and Heat Treatment
  7. 03:08Barrel Shroud Trivia
  8. 03:34Who Actually Designed the RN 50?
  9. 04:23Break Action vs. RN 50 Design
  10. 05:07Richard's Contribution: Takedown Lever
  11. 05:36Breech Cap Trivia and Design Changes
  12. 06:24Breech Cap Material and Safety Factor
  13. 07:09Instagram Questions
  14. 08:16Hammer Design Trivia
  15. 09:19Production Intentions and Completion
  16. 10:08Perfection vs. Good Enough
  17. 10:30Production Friendliness Challenges
  18. 10:50Criticism: Interrupted Threads
  19. 11:15Interrupted Threads: Safety Concerns
  20. 12:30Good Enough Design Philosophy
  21. 13:04Internet Comments and Misconceptions
  22. 13:28Valerie Serbu Designing the BFG 50A
  23. 13:57Modularity: AR Buttstock and Grip
  24. 14:10Compact Transportability
  25. 14:3916-Inch Barrel Incident
  26. 15:52Folded in Half Stories
  27. 16:1016-Inch Barrel Challenges
  28. 16:26Customization Options
  29. 16:31Firearms as Fun and Wholesome
  30. 16:49Richard's Input and Focus
  31. 17:32Optional Breech Retainer Slot
  32. 18:07First RN 50 Trivia
  33. 18:27Conclusion and Thanks

Frequently Asked Questions

What inspired the design of the RN 50's takedown pin?

The takedown pin design for the RN 50 was directly inspired by the Stormgevare takedown pin. Mark Serbu adapted a 1942 design, scaled it up, and incorporated a counterbore for the pin's head to sit flush, though he notes many users install it backward.

Why did Mark Serbu choose not to use interrupted threads on the RN 50?

Mark Serbu opted against interrupted threads for the RN 50 primarily due to safety concerns. He explained that if the breech cap wasn't fully rotated, standard threads would not provide enough retention, potentially leading to catastrophic failure under the immense pressure of a 50 BMG round.

What are the key modular features of the RN 50 rifle?

The RN 50 is designed for modularity, accepting standard AR-15 buttstocks and pistol grips. This allows users to easily customize the rifle's ergonomics and fit to their preferences.

How does the RN 50's takedown design benefit transportability?

The RN 50's takedown capability significantly enhances its transportability. It allows the rifle to fit into much smaller cases, such as a 36-inch case, and even a backpack when equipped with an 18-inch barrel, making it easier to carry discreetly.

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