Star Z-70B: Spain's Improved SMG

The Star Z-63 submachine gun, often overlooked, is presented as a high-quality firearm that defies the poor reputation of some Spanish arms. Its design features a unique two-finger trigger for semi-auto and full-auto fire, a folding stock that converts into a front grip, and advanced internal safety mechanisms for a blowback-operated weapon. The Z-63's robust construction and innovative features make it a noteworthy historical firearm.

This video provides a concise overview of the Spanish Star Z-70 SMG, often called the 'Spanish Sterling'. It highlights key features such as its fire selector modes ('Safe', 'Repetition' for semi-auto, and 'Party Mode' for full-auto), double-stack magazine, non-reciprocating charging handle, and under-folding stock. The firearm is chambered in 9mm and features a distinctive crackle finish.

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.