W.A.R. - the Winchester Automatic Rifle

This video explores Ed Browning's Winchester G30 prototype rifles, developed for the US military during WWII. It details the evolution from the Colt Model 1929, focusing on Browning's innovative annular gas piston system. The presentation covers three prototypes: the Army submission, a sporting version, and a military configuration, highlighting their mechanical similarities and differences, including the unique bolt locking mechanism inspired by the M1911 pistol.

This guide details the disassembly of the rare Colt Model 1929 prototype rifle, focusing on its internal mechanisms. Expert Ian McCollum from Forgotten Weapons demonstrates the short-recoil, tilting bolt operation, including the function of the accelerator and the delayed unlocking sequence. The video highlights the rifle's design by Ed Browning and its historical context as a competitor in the US military's self-loading rifle trials.

This guide details the specific technique for separating two MAS-36 rifles that have been inadvertently locked together by their bayonets. It outlines the historical context of this issue, the modification made to the bayonet to resolve it, and the step-by-step procedure for disengagement. The technique requires precise alignment and the use of a pointed tool to access the internal release mechanism, as demonstrated by firearms expert Ian McCollum.

This guide details the loading and firing procedure for the M134 Minigun, as explained by Ian McCollum. It covers manual indexing of the barrel cluster, feeding the ammunition belt, engaging controls, and firing. The guide also touches upon the weapon's spin-down inertia and the function of modern clutch systems. Expert instruction from a recognized firearms historian highlights the technical aspects of operating this powerful weapon system.

This guide details the operational features of the H&K G11 K2, a prototype assault rifle known for its caseless ammunition and unique rotating drum bolt. It covers the selector settings, magazine capacity, integrated optics, and the internal action designed for recoil management during high-rate-of-fire bursts. Expert insights from Ian McCollum highlight the historical context and technical innovations of this advanced firearm.

This guide details the operation of the German L.Gr.W.36 50mm light mortar, as demonstrated by expert Ian McCollum. It covers assembly, leveling procedures, ammunition handling, and live fire execution, emphasizing the difficulty in visually tracking the projectile. The instruction highlights the importance of proper setup for accuracy.