Top 5 Classic Carry Guns

This video from Brownells explores the historical Colt 1903 and 1908 Pocket Models, comparing them to the iconic Colt 1911. Gunsmiths Keith and Steve from Rock Island Auction Company showcase various examples, detailing differences in calibers (.32 ACP, .38 Automatic, .380 ACP) and design variations like barrel length and slide contours. The discussion highlights their early use as compact concealed-carry pistols, including those that were U.S. government property and the rare Japanese M1903 variants, emphasizing their appeal to collectors.

This video explores the historical significance of the Savage 1915 pistol, highlighting its status as a striker-fired, double-stack firearm that predates the Glock by 70 years. It details the pistol's lineage as a variant of the Savage 1907, which competed against the Colt 1911 for military trials. Although the Savage lost the contract due to reliability issues in the torture test, it was later adapted for military and civilian use. The 1915 model is noted as the rarest variant, produced for only two years before being redesigned as the 1917. The content emphasizes the firearm's unique place in early 20th-century firearm development.

The Savage 1907 is a notable vintage semi-automatic pistol, distinguished by its delayed blowback rotating barrel system and high capacity for its era. It offered 10 rounds of .32 ACP or 9 rounds of .380 ACP, significantly more than contemporary single-stack designs. The firearm features a screwless construction with snap-on grips and a unique magazine toe release. Despite a minor malfunction, its historical reliability and accuracy were confirmed during range testing.

This video takes viewers into the vault of Rock Island Auction Company, featuring a historical look at two significant pistols from the early 20th century: the Colt Model 1905 and the Savage 1907. Hosted by Brownells Gun Techs Steve Ostrem and Keith, the segment highlights these firearms' roles in the 1907 U.S. Army trials that ultimately led to the adoption of the M1911. The Colt 1905 is presented as an early iteration of the classic 1911 design, while two Savage 1907 pistols in .45 ACP are showcased, including a restored example and one with original patina, contrasting with the more common commercial .32 ACP models. The comparison implicitly favors the Colt's eventual success in Army adoption.

The Welrod Mk IIA is a unique bolt-action pistol designed for covert operations by the British SOE during WWII. Its integrated suppressor, featuring 14 baffles and rubber wipes, can reduce sound to approximately 122.8 dB, making it nearly inaudible at close range. The pistol's design, including a magazine grip and bolt action, prioritizes concealment and silence over ergonomics, with a long service life extending to the 1991 Gulf War.

This video, extracted from a WWI Primer series, provides a detailed explanation of how the Savage 1907 pistol functions. It highlights its key operating mechanisms, including its single-action trigger, strike-fired action with a false hammer, and double-stack magazine capacity. The content is presented in a way that educates viewers on the internal workings of this historical firearm.

This TFBTV episode identifies the top 5 most reliable firearms across different categories: Glock (handgun), Uzi (SMG), Mauser 98 (bolt-action), Remington 870 (shotgun), and Galil (self-loading rifle). The selections prioritize mechanical simplicity, proven track records, and resilience in harsh conditions, often outperforming more complex designs. The video highlights specific features contributing to their reliability, such as the Uzi's single moving part and the Galil's robust construction.

This review highlights five hilariously impractical firearms for concealed carry. It details the slow, complex loading of black powder firearms, the impractical size of the Mauser C96 and full-size .22 pistols for concealment, and the dangerous accidental discharge flaw in the Type 94 Nambu. The video emphasizes that while historically significant, these guns are unsuitable for modern self-defense.

The Ruger Mini-14 offers distinct advantages over the AR-15, including a lower profile, better stock trigger on modern variants, superior maneuverability with folding stocks, a longer sight radius, and a cleaner piston operating system. Modern Mini-14s also boast improved accuracy (around 2 MOA), cold hammer-forged barrels for durability, and optional all-stainless construction for corrosion resistance. While the AR-15 remains more modular and generally cheaper, the Mini-14 excels in specific areas.

This TFBTV episode reviews five excellent surplus rifles available for under $500, focusing on historical significance and affordability. Featured firearms include the Lee Enfield, Yugoslavian Mauser 98, Swiss K31, MAS 49/56, and a debate between the SKS and Mosin Nagant for the final spot. The discussion highlights unique actions, historical context, and the availability of surplus ammunition.