WF-51: A Swiss Intermediate-Cartridge Copy of the FG-42

The WF-54 was a Swiss prototype rifle developed by Waffenfabrik Bern, scaling up the German FG-42 design to fire the full-power 7.5x55mm GP11 cartridge. It featured a closed-bolt firing system, a simplified charging handle, and a folding winter trigger. While only about 10 were made, it represented an iterative step towards the later SIG Stgw 57.

The LMG-25, Switzerland's first modern light machine gun, features a unique toggle-locking system developed by Adolf Furrer. Chambered in 7.5x55mm Swiss, it offers select-fire capability and a 30-round magazine compatible with the Stgw 57. A notable feature is the Advanced Primer Ignition (API) system, which reduces felt recoil and rate of fire by igniting the primer while parts are still moving forward.

This video provides a detailed look at the FG-42 paratrooper rifle from WWII. Part 2 of the series delves into specific features such as the iron sights, the spring recoil system, and the mounting options for optics. It also touches upon the bayonet, offering a comprehensive overview for enthusiasts interested in this historically significant firearm. The content emphasizes an in-depth examination of the rifle's design and functionality.

The K31 Swiss rifle is highlighted as one of the most accurate military surplus firearms. It features a distinctive straight-pull bolt action, a 6-round detachable magazine often loaded with stripper clips, and a unique ring-style safety. The rifle demonstrates excellent accuracy and rapid cycling capabilities during live fire.

This review details the rare W+F Bern AK-44, a Swiss prototype rifle from 1944 that closely copies the Soviet SVT-40. While externally similar, the AK-44 is chambered in 7.5x55mm Swiss and uses 6-round K31-compatible magazines. It features a short-stroke gas piston system and a tilting bolt, with an integrated telescopic sight. Despite its advanced design for the era, it was never adopted by Switzerland.

This review showcases the Swiss K31 rifle, highlighting its straight-pull bolt action and accuracy at 200 meters. The demonstration includes proper loading with stripper clips and engaging a steel silhouette target, validating the rifle's mechanical precision. The video emphasizes the K31's historical significance as a Swiss military firearm.

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.