Ultra-Rare Colt AR-15 Survival Rifle, with firearms expert Jonathan Ferguson

The Colt Model 607 represents the first AR carbine, developed around 1965 for specialized roles. Key features include an early slab-side receiver, a unique shortened pistol grip, and an early collapsing stock. Its 10-inch barrel necessitated a 'moderator' muzzle device to improve reliability and reduce noise, paving the way for the XM177 series and the modern M4.

This review delves into the XM177, the precursor to the modern M4 carbine, highlighting its Vietnam War era significance and unique features like the slick-side upper and XM moderator. It explores the evolution from the CAR-15 platform, showcasing retro builds and niche optics such as the Armson OEG. The video emphasizes the enduring effectiveness and aesthetic appeal of these historical AR-15 configurations.

This review compares the Brownells and Troy XM177E2 retro AR carbine replicas. The Troy model excels in historical accuracy with its collapsible stock, locking nut, and finish, while the Brownells version features a modern stock and castle nut, and exhibits a quality control issue with a cracked forward assist. Both aim for the XM177E2 aesthetic, with Troy offering more period-correct details and accessories despite a slightly lower price point.

This review delves into the Colt 723, a CAR-15 variant famously used by Delta Force in Mogadishu. It highlights the challenges and nuances of building historically accurate retro clones, emphasizing the importance of period-correct parts over movie props. The discussion covers technical aspects like IR aiming devices, optics for passive aiming with NVGs, and the ballistic advantages of a 14.5-inch barrel for the 5.56mm cartridge.

This video details a custom CAR-15 build inspired by the movie 'Blood Diamond', focusing on retro aesthetics and specific component choices. It highlights the use of a Colt 10.5-inch upper receiver with a BCM lower, Aimpoint PRO optic, and a Surefire 660 light. The build emphasizes matching the movie's look with parts like skinny handguards and a Colt 607 moderator replica.

This video introduces the Brownells BRN-605™, a detailed replica of the rare, early 1965 carbine version of the M16. Paul Levy highlights its 15.5" barrel with a 3-prong flash hider, noting its resemblance to an M16A1 with a shortened barrel. Despite its appearance, the rifle-length gas system contributes to a soft-shooting experience. The video briefly contrasts it with the later XM177 "CAR-15" carbine.

This video features Ian McCollum and Jonathan Ferguson in a 60-second challenge at the Royal Armouries to find three unique firearms: a Charlton Automatic Rifle, a Schwarzlose Model 1898 pistol, and an early SA80 prototype. They discuss unusual mechanical operations and limited historical impact, highlighting experimental designs like the Sterling 7.62mm prototype and the Mars .45 Automatic Pistol.

The Knight's Armament KS-1, designated L403A1 by the British Army, is a new AR-15 platform rifle adopted for specialized units like the Army Special Operations Brigade and Royal Marines. It features a 13.7-inch barrel, ambidextrous controls, and is equipped with a Vortex 1-10x LPVO and an Aimpoint ACRO P-2 for versatile engagement ranges. The rifle utilizes a KAC QDC/MCQ-PRT suppressor and is part of 'Project Hunter' to enhance interoperability with allied forces.

This video details the armor and weaponry of an 11th-century Norman knight, emphasizing the evolution of protective gear. It covers the padded undergarments, the mail hauberk constructed from thousands of iron rings, and the nasal helmet for head protection. The kite shield offered significant defense, while primary weapons included the lance and a one-handed sword.

This video explores a unique modernization attempt of the Martini-Henry rifle using Captain Harston's Patent Magazine. Jonathan Ferguson details the Mark IV rifle's features and the external magazine's mechanism, designed to convert the single-shot rifle into a five-round repeater. Despite its ingenuity, the system faced issues with reliability, high conversion costs, and was ultimately overshadowed by superior bolt-action designs like the Lee-Metford.