This video explores Project PRAK, an experimental conversion of the CZ50 pistol to fire 9x18mm Makarov ammunition. The project involved fitting a CZ50 with a modified barrel from a vz65 Skorpion, fabricating a new magazine, and making minor adjustments to the slide. Firing trials revealed durability issues, including extractor problems, hammer peening the slide, a cracked magazine body, and a broken firing pin. The testing concluded that a converted CZ50 would have a limited lifespan of around 2000 rounds, and the project was never put into production. The video highlights the historical context and the reasons why this conversion wasn't pursued.
This video features firearms expert Jonathan Ferguson exploring a unique American prototype firearm based on the M3 Grease Gun, designed to shoot around corners. It's compared to the German Krummlauf and is referred to as the M3 'Deflector'. The video delves into its 90-degree firing capability, potential use in tanks or armored vehicles, its "Infinity Sight," and its unusual yellow coloring. Ferguson also discusses the removal of the curved unit, reports on its accuracy and lethality, and touches upon the legacy of curved barrels, drawing a parallel to the modern CornerShot system. The content is presented by the Royal Armouries.
This video delves into the history and prototype of the experimental SOE Welrod MkI. Developed in late 1942 for silent assassination, the MkI featured a fixed internal magazine and thumb trigger, which proved awkward. A MkII version with a more conventional design was quickly developed and adopted. The video highlights that the first Welrod produced was the MkII, with later 9mm production models designated MkI. The presenter thanks the Royal Armouries for access to the sole surviving MkI prototype, emphasizing its historical significance and rarity. Information on accessing the Royal Armouries collections is also provided.
This TFBTV episode features James Reeves interviewing Stanislav Strizic, an engineer involved with the CZ-75, about a rare, unreleased competition variant of the Vz. 58 rifle. Only two prototypes of this unique Vz. 58 Sport exist. The discussion delves into the Vz. 58's design, which, despite outward resemblance to the AK-47, features a distinct short-stroke gas piston system and bolt locking mechanism. It fires the 7.62x39mm cartridge and is noted for its lightweight construction, utilizing aluminum alloys. The Vz. 58 was adopted by the Czechoslovak military in 1958.
This video delves into the history and development of the vz.68 and the 9x19mm Scorpion, prototypes that were essentially 'PDWs on steroids' based on the original vz.61. It explores their development from the 1960s through the 1990s, including field trials and attempted military adoption by the new Czech Republic. The discussion highlights their mechanical similarities to the vz.61, such as being closed-bolt, hammer-fired, simple blowback designs, with minor modifications like a stretched receiver and increased bolt mass. Ultimately, these 9x19mm prototypes were rejected due to complexity and cost compared to contemporary submachine guns, leading CZ to develop the Evo 3 instead. The video thanks CZ for providing access to these rare prototypes from their factory collection.
This video provides an exclusive look inside Heckler & Koch's "Gray Room," a facility housing prototypes and rare H&K firearms. American Rifleman's Joe Kurtenbach explores the history of the German manufacturer, from its origins with former Mauser engineers to its significant contributions to both military and civilian markets. The Gray Room showcases iconic pieces like the HK4 handgun, the VP70, and modern offerings such as the VP9 handgun and the M27 Infantry Automatic Rifle, representing over 70 years of H&K's design and manufacturing expertise.
This video explores two rare FAMAS Commando prototype rifles, developed by GIAT in an unsuccessful attempt to market shorter-barreled bullpup variants internationally. These prototypes are based on the G2 pattern, utilize AR-type (specifically FN FNC) magazines, and feature lightened bolt carriers for the reduced barrel length of approximately 11.25 inches. The video highlights variations in front grips (vertical vs. horizontal hand stop) and different sighting systems, showcasing the experimental nature of these unique firearms. Access to film these prototypes was generously provided by the French Ministry of the Interior.
This video explores the developmental history of the SIG P220, also known as the Swiss P75 Army Pistol. The P220 was developed in the 1960s by SIG as a more cost-effective alternative to the expensive SIG 210 (P49) for the Swiss military. It features design departures from the P49, including a folded sheet metal slide and an alloy frame instead of all-milled construction. The video showcases early prototypes, a first production Army P75, a late production model with simplified features, and a Z-series border patrol variant with a unique magazine release shield, offering a comprehensive look at its evolution.
This video explores a rare prototype Winchester antitank rifle developed in late 1918, in response to the advent of tanks in World War I. The rifle, the only known surviving example, suffered a catastrophic failure during testing, with its receiver cracked in half. The description highlights its unique 1911-style pistol grip bolt handle and its role in the development of the .50 BMG cartridge, with captured German Tankgewehrs serving as the basis for US efforts. The video thanks the Cody Firearms Museum for access.
This video showcases a pair of transitional Bergmann prototype pistols, specifically those bridging the 1896 and 1897 models (No. 2/3/4 and No. 5). The analysis highlights the unique combinations of frame and upper/locking systems from different design eras. Despite their non-standard configurations, their serial numbers suggest they were part of regular production. The discussion focuses on the evolutionary steps in Bergmann pistol design.
This video explores the design origins of the AR-15/M16 safety selector lever. Contrary to popular belief that its ergonomic placement for quick switching was the primary design intent, the video suggests this wasn't the initial concept from Eugene Stoner. It points to early AR-15 prototypes, specifically serial number 000001, as evidence for this revised understanding of the safety lever's evolution.
This video explores the Turner Light Rifle Prototype, a unique firearm design submitted for the US Light Rifle trials that ultimately led to the adoption of the M1 Carbine. The rifle features a distinctive tubular metal stock and handguard in its first iteration, later replaced with traditional wooden furniture in the second model. A key point of contention was the ammunition used during trials, which utilized Hercules 2400 powder, differing from the IMR 4227 the inventor Russell Turner had developed with, leading to reliability issues. The rifle is characterized by its simple design, long stroke gas piston, side-locking tilting bolt, and M1 Garand-style safety. Despite potential, it did not get adopted due to these ammunition-related challenges. The video also mentions related firearms like the Thompson SMG in .30 Carbine and the Winchester M2 Rifle.
