This video explores the Praga I, an early Czech machine gun design by Vaclav Holek, developed in 1922. It's noted as a precursor to the renowned ZB-26 light machine gun. The Praga I features a blow-forward, gas-trap action and a wedge-locking system, distinct from the Vickers/Maxim toggle-jointed recoil operation. The filming was made possible by access granted from the VHU - Czech Military History Institute, specifically the Army Museum Žižkov in Prague, which houses this fascinating prototype and other exhibits.
This video provides an in-depth look at the Finnish KvKK 62 light machine gun, the squad automatic counterpart to the Rk 62 rifle. The reviewer highlights its open-bolt operation, 7.62x39mm caliber, and RPD-style belt feeding. Mechanically, it draws from Czech designs like the ZB-26 and Bren, featuring a vertically traveling locking block and long stroke gas piston. The unique pistol grip assembly doubles as the bolt handle. Despite its widely perceived ugliness and a poor reputation among Finnish veterans, the reviewer finds it controllable to shoot when in good condition, attributing issues to age and potential mishandling. The video also notes its replacement by the PKM in modern Finnish service.
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