This video explores the Chinese Type 63 rifle, a fascinating hybrid designed to merge the accuracy of the SKS with the firepower of the AK. Introduced in 1960, it featured an SKS-like gas piston and fire control system combined with an AK-style rotating bolt and detachable magazine. Despite performing well in trials, mass-produced rifles suffered from subpar quality control, leading to their withdrawal from service. The video discusses the two main variations (milled and stamped receivers), the unique 20-round magazines with bolt hold-open, and the rifle's international distribution, particularly to Albania and African nations.
This video from the Rock Island Auction Company vault features two rare German World War II rifles: the StG 44 and the Volkssturmgewehr VG1-5. The StG 44 is presented with its original, rare optic calibrated for the 8mm Kurz cartridge and in superb condition, highlighting its innovative design elements that influenced later firearms like the AR-15 and AK-47. The VG1-5, a weapon of desperation, is also chambered in 8mm Kurz, uses StG 44 magazines, and features a stamped receiver and a delayed blowback system, though its complexity is noted as a sign of German over-engineering. The video discusses the rifles' origins, technical specifications, and historical context.
This video provides an in-depth look at the Yugoslav M72, an early variant of the Balkan RPK. It details the rifle's development from experimental M64 and M65 models, highlighting features like its heavier barrel, bipod, and initial quick-change barrel mechanism and carry handle, which were later removed. The description also touches upon parts interchangeability with the M70 rifle, the development of a specific drum magazine for the M72, and the evolution of its receiver from a milled to a stamped version in later iterations (M72B and M72B1). The video credits Polenar Tactical for facilitating access to an early M72 example.
This video delves into the history and development of the PPS-42 submachine gun, a Soviet design that emerged during the Siege of Leningrad. It highlights how the PPS-42 was conceived as a simpler and more resource-efficient alternative to the PPSh-41. The narrative traces its design by Aleksey Sudaev, its production challenges in besieged Leningrad, and the subsequent improvements that led to the more widely produced PPS-43. The video emphasizes the wartime context and the immediate deployment of the PPS-42 into combat.
This video delves into the history and features of the Valmet M76, Finland's stamped receiver AK variant. It discusses the evolution from the milled receiver m/62 to the stamped m/71 and its eventual adoption as the m/62-76. The export version, the M76, is detailed, covering its various options including semi-auto and full-auto configurations, different buttstocks, and caliber availability in the US market. The video explains why the Finnish military eventually deemed stamped receivers less durable and harder to repair than milled ones, leading to the end of military production in 1982 and scaled-back export production.
This video examines the Rheinmetall VG45K, a late-World War II German Volkssturm rifle design chambered in 8x33mm. Also known as the VG-3, this bolt-action rifle was intended for mass production with minimal resources. The featured example utilizes a stamped receiver and feeds from standard Sturmgewehr magazines. Despite its crude construction and heavy trigger, the rifle proves surprisingly comfortable to shoot, accurate, and reliable, offering a glimpse into desperate German arms development during the final days of the war.
This video provides a direct comparison between the SKS and AK-47 rifles, covering key aspects such as their operating systems (long stroke vs. short stroke), ergonomics, controls, and aftermarket options. It delves into specific models like the Meridian Defense Pestilence 7.62x39 AK and the Chinese SKS 7.62x39 Rifle. The comparison also highlights differences in barrel and muzzle design, as well as the bayonet versus detachable magazine systems and milled versus stamped receivers. The video concludes by discussing scenarios where each rifle might have an advantage and hints at a CZ Bren 2 Ms giveaway. The content is aimed at firearm enthusiasts interested in these classic rifle platforms.
This video features Caleb Savant, a Brownells Gun Tech, comparing the Russian AKM and the Czech VZ 58. He highlights their key differences, emphasizing that despite being Kalashnikov-type rifles and firing the same 7.62x39mm cartridge, they are not interchangeable in parts. Differences discussed include receiver construction (stamped steel AKM vs. machined steel VZ 58), piston systems (long-stroke AKM vs. short-stroke VZ 58), firing mechanisms (hammer-fired AKM vs. striker-fired VZ 58), and bolt hold-open features on the VZ 58, allowing for stripper clip reloads. Both are praised for their ruggedness and reliability.
This video provides a detailed field strip and disassembly of the Robinson Armament M96, a clone of the legendary Stoner 63 rifle. The Stoner 63 is highlighted for its historical significance with the US Navy SEALs in Vietnam, its highly configurable design (rifle, top-feed, belt-fed), and its rarity today. The M96 is described as a high-quality clone produced between 1999 and 2011, featuring stamped stainless steel receivers. The video emphasizes that while components are not interchangeable with originals, the M96 is a well-built rendition. The presenter confirms it's a semi-automatic, 20-inch barrel, non-restricted firearm in Canada, and that they are properly licensed to possess it.
This video provides an in-depth look at the Type 1 Russian AK, the very first production-stamped AK. It details the initial design, the challenges faced with early stamped receiver manufacturing, including warping issues, and the subsequent switch to a milled receiver. The video clarifies that the 'AK-47' designation referred to the prototype, while the production version was simply 'AK.' It highlights the rarity of the Type 1 AK and thanks a private collector for the opportunity to film it.
This video provides a first look at a DDI AK-47 variant, highlighting its high quality construction and competitive price. The rifle is built using a Hungarian AKM parts kit with a US-made barrel and receiver, featuring Hogue furniture and a Fenocite treatment for enhanced durability and corrosion resistance. The reviewer praises the rifle's excellent workmanship, noting the absence of crooked barrels or canted sights, and points out the inclusion of a side rail for optics. The video emphasizes the rifle's value proposition compared to other brands.
This video provides an overview of the Walther MP submachine gun, detailing its design features as an all-stamped, open-bolt, blowback firearm with an innovative bolt for reduced travel. The presenter notes its availability in long (MPL) and short (MPK) variants and found it to be a pleasant shooting experience. The description suggests the weapon's limited success was likely due to strong competition and marketing from Heckler & Koch's MP5.
