Japanese Type 100 Flamethrower

This guide details the operation and key features of the US M2/M2A1 Flamethrower, a significant weapon from WWII through the Vietnam War. It covers its development, fuel system advantages with gelled fuel, safety mechanisms like rupture discs and vent caps, and the reliable pyrotechnic ignition. The guide emphasizes understanding the pressure regulation, hose construction, dual-trigger system, and the importance of quick-release straps for operator safety during live fire demonstrations. Instruction is provided by Ian McCollum, a recognized expert in historical military arms.

This guide details the operational use of the M2 Flamethrower, drawing on the expertise of an Iwo Jima survivor and 5th Marine Division veteran. It covers fuel capacity, firing duration, the 'swoosh' technique, tank configuration, and the necessity of a .45 pistol as a sidearm due to the weapon's bulk. The information highlights critical vulnerabilities and operational context from WWII combat.

This guide details the operational procedures for the Carl Gustav m/42 recoilless antitank rifle, focusing on loading and mechanical functions. It highlights the pivoting breech, extractor, trigger mechanism, and the wear characteristics of the breech block plate. Expert instruction from Ian McCollum emphasizes the unique design elements of this historical weapon.

This entry details the German SG-113A Sondergerät 113, a unique WWII recoilless anti-tank gun. Developed by Reichswerke Hermann Göring, it fired a 45mm sabot projectile from a 77mm smoothbore barrel, designed for aircraft mounting to attack tank roofs. The weapon featured an electromagnetic sensor trigger and a counterweight recoil system. Expert analysis highlights its advanced, albeit experimental, design for the era.

This guide details the operational procedures for the Bofors 40mm Automatic Gun M1, drawing from expert insights by Ian McCollum. It covers the three-man crew roles, the mechanical action including recoil and breech operation, and the stabilization features of the M2A1 carriage. The information emphasizes the historical significance and continued relevance of this iconic anti-aircraft weapon system.

This guide details the operational technique for the PIAT anti-tank weapon, as demonstrated by Ian McCollum of Forgotten Weapons. It covers the unique spigot mortar mechanism, the strenuous cocking procedure, projectile loading, and firing. The PIAT's design allowed for a large projectile without a heavy barrel, and its lack of backblast offered tactical advantages.

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.