The EM2 in NATO Trials, with Jonathan Ferguson

The L85A3 represents a significant ergonomic and structural modernization of the British Army's SA80 rifle, primarily featuring a new Heckler & Koch-designed slimline M-LOK handguard and an FDE Cerakote finish. While internal components largely remain A2 specification, improvements like electron beam welding enhance receiver rigidity. The optic is typically the Elcan Specter OS4, often paired with a Shield CQB red dot.

The S.R.E.M. was an experimental British WWII bullpup sniper rifle designed to allow cycling without disturbing the sight picture. It featured a BESA machine gun-inspired mechanism where the pistol grip acted as the charging handle, and was chambered in 8mm Mauser. Despite 22 prototypes being commissioned, only two were completed before the project was canceled in 1945.

This video provides an in-depth look at the EIW97, an experimental electronic variant of the SA80 rifle, presented by Jonathan Ferguson of the Royal Armouries. The EIW97 explored electronic ignition and programmable fire control to enhance lethality and hit probability, featuring specialized ammunition and a significantly reduced cyclic rate for improved accuracy. Expert Murray discusses its origins as a mid-1990s research program investigating future weapon systems.

This video delves into the fascinating history of early bullpup rifle designs, specifically focusing on the Thorneycroft First Pattern rifle, which is presented as a potential 'Edwardian SA80.' Firearms expert Jonathan Ferguson provides an in-depth analysis, covering its design, features, and historical context. The video also briefly mentions the Gamwell Rifle and draws comparisons to well-known firearms like the Lee-Metford and SMLE. In addition to the historical firearm content, the description announces an upcoming Call of Duty livestream event for the Royal Armouries.

This review of the IWI Tavor X95 highlights its advantages as a compact bullpup rifle, offering a 16.5-inch barrel in a package similar to a 10.5-inch AR-15. The video details its unique features, including ambidextrous controls, a decent trigger for a bullpup, and the potential for legal benefits in restrictive states. Accuracy testing reveals it's capable of sub-2 MOA with appropriate ammunition, making it a compelling option for those seeking a distinctive and well-built firearm.

The T31 was John Garand's final rifle design, a unique bullpup that bore no resemblance to the M1 Garand. Its initial pneumatic gas system proved problematic due to carbon fouling, leading to a redesign with a traditional short-stroke piston. This video details the T31's innovative but flawed design and its evolution.

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.