This video explores the Steyr Repetierpistole M1912/16, an automatic adaptation of the M1912 pistol developed by the Austro-Hungarian military during WWI. It features a 16-round fixed magazine loaded via stripper clips and a selector switch, with a high rate of fire. The video also mentions the acquisition of 200 of these pistols and 50 twin-gun systems, though none of the latter are known to survive. The presenter thanks the VHU (Czech Military History Institute) for access to these prototypes at the Army Museum Žižkov in Prague.
This video delves into the B&T Universal Service Weapon (USW), exploring its innovative design and genesis. Originating from a desire to enhance police handgun effectiveness, the USW integrates a foregrip and shoulder stock to improve accuracy while maintaining holsterability. The description details early prototypes based on AT-84 Sphinx pistols and later experiments with models like the SIG P320, CZ P10, Walther PPQ, and Glock. A significant outcome of the project was the development of the Aimpoint Acro red dot sight, initially conceived as the Aimpoint Nano for B&T. The video also references a personal experience using a USW-320 in a 2022 competition.
This video showcases a historic 1918 Artillery Luger rig being used in a 6-stage USPSA match. The shooter utilizes the Luger in the Pistol Caliber Carbine (PCC) division, fitted with its detachable shoulder stock and a rare snail drum magazine. The description highlights the unusual nature of this setup, noting its exemption from NFA regulations due to the shoulder stock. The video also mentions that the rig performed exceptionally well throughout the competition, with the shooter achieving better-than-expected results.
This video delves into Finland's acquisition and use of the FN High Power pistol. Finland purchased 2,400 of these pistols prior to and during World War II, specifically to address urgent arms needs during the Winter War and Continuation War. The pistols were delivered as rigs, including leather holsters attached to flat board shoulder stocks, which are noted for their US NFA exemption. While initially intended for broader use, they became particularly valued by the Finnish Air Force as survival weapons. The video details the serial number range for Finnish contract pistols, the scarcity of matching rigs, and modifications like the addition of square front sights. Approximately 40% were lost or rendered unserviceable by the end of the Continuation War, with the remainder serving until the 1980s before being sold as surplus.
This video delves into the fascinating story behind Browning High Power pistols intended for Oman. Originally brokered by Paul Van Hee as part of a Cadillac-Gage armored car deal in the late 1960s, the plan involved importing and engraving High Powers with Omani national crests. However, the deal faltered, and FN arranged its own sale of 5,000 pistols to Oman without special markings. The demonstration guns, including one fitted with an original Belgian shoulder stock and exempted from NFA regulations, remained in the US and entered the collector market.
This video showcases a Ukrainian workshop's adaptation of PKT machine guns for infantry use. The PKT, typically found in armored vehicles, lacks a pistol grip and shoulder stock, utilizing a solenoid trigger. The mechanics in Ukraine are modifying these receivers by adding these components and a bipod, essentially converting them to a standard infantry configuration. The description notes a similar practice occurred in the US historically due to the greater availability of PKT parts kits compared to standard PK/PKM kits. This process highlights innovative gunsmithing and the repurposing of existing military hardware.
This video dives into the history and specifics of the Chinese Warlord Era Shanxi .45 ACP Broomhandle pistol. Produced by the Taiyuan Arsenal between 1928 and 1931, these pistols are notable for being a .45 ACP chambering of the C96 Mauser design, developed to align with the caliber of Thompson submachine guns also being manufactured. The description highlights their significant size and capacity, as well as the distinction between genuine high-quality originals and later, poorly made imitations imported into the US. The video also promotes a Kickstarter campaign for a project titled 'Pistols of the Warlords.'
This video delves into Chinese Warlord Era pistols, focusing on extensive copies of the FN 1900. It highlights how these were adapted to fire the potent 7.63mm Mauser cartridge, noting the mechanical limitations of the blowback system for this round. The discussion covers variations in size and features, including those fitted for shoulder stocks. A Kickstarter for "Pistols of the Warlords" is also promoted.
This video showcases a very rare Colt Model 1905 pistol, presented with its original holster and shoulder stock attachment. It also features other early Colt firearms, including the Colt 1903 Pocket Hammer and Hammerless models, and early Colt 1911 variants. The content appeals to collectors and enthusiasts of historical firearms, offering a glimpse into the evolution of Colt's pistol designs. The video description also includes links to the creator's Patreon for early access and a raffle, as well as their "Flak & Fubar" podcast.
This video from Forgotten Weapons delves into the history and specifics of the FN High Power pistols purchased by Estonia in the 1930s. It details the different batches acquired by the police, military, and the Defense League (Kaitseliit), highlighting their distinct serial number ranges and markings ("EV" and "KL"). The description also mentions the pistols' features like 500m tangent sights and stock slots, and notes that while holsters and stocks weren't imported from FN, the Estonian arsenal manufactured their own shoulder stocks and spare parts. A planned domestic production under license was unfortunately interrupted by the 1940 occupation.
This video delves into the history and significance of the Turkish Conehammer C96 Mauser pistol. It highlights the 'cone hammer' as the initial commercial variant, distinguished by its distinctive hammer design. The description details a substantial order of 1,000 of these pistols by Sultan Abdul Hamid II of the Ottoman Empire for his palace guard, noted for their Farsi numbering and matching shoulder stocks. The narrative traces the pistol's service life, from its initial limited distribution under the Sultan to its wider use by the military and police after the 1908/9 revolution, including service in World War One and post-war surplus availability. The video touches on the pistol's rarity due to extensive use.
This video dives into the Star Pistol-Carbines, specifically the Model MMS and Model MB. It highlights Star's history of producing 1911-style pistols in various calibers and configurations, including models with shoulder stocks. The MMS, chambered in .30 Mauser, and the MB, in 9mm Parabellum, are discussed in detail. The video also mentions their inclusion with a wooden holster stock and multiple magazines (8, 16, and 32-round), and importantly, their exemption from NFA requirements. A recommendation for Leonard Antaris' book on Star Firearms is provided.
