This video is a promotional piece for the "Vickers Guide: AR-15 Vol. 2 - Second Edition" book. It details the book's extensive coverage of the AR-15 platform's evolution from the post-Vietnam era to the present, including M4 and M16A4 variants, prototypes, firearms from the Global War on Terror, the AR-10's rebirth as the SR-25, and law enforcement/civilian carbines. The second edition features the introduction of the Picatinny rail and expansion into alternate calibers, with a focus on international AR-15 variants. The book showcases over 120 rifles, cartridges, magazines, and components, featuring visits to notable manufacturers and collections. Co-authored by Larry Vickers, James Rupley, and Christopher Bartocci, it aims to provide unparalleled insight into AR-15 development for enthusiasts.
This video explores the AAI 2nd Gen SPIW flechette rifles, remnants of a failed military program that began in 1962. The SPIW (Special Purpose Individual Weapon) program aimed to develop advanced rifle systems, with initial trials from Colt, Springfield, AAI, and Winchester proving unsuccessful. AAI continued development, producing these second-generation rifles chambered for the XM-645 5.6x57mm single-flechette cartridge. Despite further testing, these rifles suffered from significant reliability, noise, cook-off, and accuracy issues, ultimately leading to the program's failure. The video showcases the rifles and provides historical context, crediting the Rock Island Arsenal Museum for access.
This video examines the Winchester 1964 SPIW (Special Purpose Infantry Weapon) entry into a US Army trials program aimed at enhancing small arms lethality through hyper-velocity flechettes and integrated grenade launchers. The featured rifle boasts a 60-round drum magazine for flechette rounds and a muzzle-mounted, blow-forward 40mm grenade launcher. Challenges in development, particularly with the flechette cartridge's sabot, are discussed. Despite its innovative concepts, the Winchester design proved unsuccessful due to poor balance, handling, and reliability issues during firing trials. The video thanks the Rock Island Arsenal Museum for access.
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