September 2025 Q&A: All About Battle Rifles

This guide details the operation of a PTR-91 battle rifle, a G3 clone, based on a demonstration by a proficient shooter. It covers loading, chambering a round using the 'HK slap' technique, and engaging multiple steel targets with controlled rapid fire. The video highlights the use of Magtech .308 ammunition, a Holosun optic, and Magpul gloves, emphasizing efficient weapon manipulation and recoil management in an outdoor range setting.

This entry details the top five favorite firearms of Green Beret Kyle Lamb, a retired Sergeant Major with over 20 years of Special Operations experience. Lamb provides an authoritative, yet casual, overview of his selections, ranging from the iconic M1 Garand to the versatile AR-15 system, sharing insights based on his extensive combat and operational experience. The list emphasizes reliability, effectiveness, and historical significance in firearm design.

This analysis by Ian McCollum of Forgotten Weapons critically examines the US Army's adoption of the SIG Sauer M7 rifle and the 6.8x51mm caliber. McCollum, a recognized firearms expert, argues that the justifications for the NGSW program—extending engagement range and defeating advanced body armor—are flawed. He suggests that modern drone technology is a more effective solution for long-range threats and that advanced bullet design, rather than extreme pressure, is a better approach to armor penetration. The analysis highlights practical engagement limitations due to visibility and terrain, advocating for the role of the Designated Marksman over a universal heavy rifle. McCollum predicts the M7's adoption may be short-lived due to its inherent drawbacks.

This video demonstrates the installation and performance of the FAB Defense GL-CORE IMPACT buttstock, featuring adjustable coil-over dampening for recoil reduction. Expertly shown by Shortshot Tony, the guide details testing on .308 and 5.56mm platforms, comparing recoil mitigation across three distinct strength settings. The insights provided are valuable for shooters seeking to manage felt recoil more effectively.

Instruction from Ted of Line 45 provides expert insights into building an ammunition stockpile before potential shortages. The guide details which calibers are most vulnerable, like .22 LR and 9mm, and explains the impact of supply chains and import restrictions. It emphasizes strategic stockpiling for different uses, from training to self-defense, to ensure preparedness.

This video defines a 'battle rifle' based on four key criteria: military pattern, shoulder-fired, self-loading action, and chambered for a full-power rifle cartridge. Expert Ian McCollum uses examples like the FN FAL and M1 Garand, contrasting them with intermediate-caliber rifles and support weapons. The discussion highlights the relevance of the battle rifle concept with the introduction of new platforms like the SIG XM7.

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.