If Thales exported them to the US it'd be good to see how the F90 as a modernised AUG variant competes with these newest bullpups, and how the advances such as being even lighter again, more accurate, having more rail space and accessory mounts would score.
@@Howjadoo22 It was in New Zealand and perpetrated by an Australian. New Zealanders were able to own full autos prior to then. I remember seeing racks of surplus M16A1's brought in from Vietnam in 2015, no doubt leftover from the war there. There were also surplus Thompson's from the second world war brought in from Russia of all places (a lot were given to them under the Lend Lease Act but were never returned due to strict US import laws) along with other full autos. And there were even a few Stg44's and FG42's that were no where near how outrageously expensive they are in the US. And Chinese NHM-90 semi auto AK's for those without the automatic license for about $600 brand new. It's strange for Americans to think that surplus guns can only be bolt action rifles or M1 Garands and the like because of shitty US gun and import laws.
Former Croatian soldiers here who was issued both the VHS-1 and VHS-2, that is in fact a forward assist or rather manual charging mechanism. Haven't actually ever had to use it as such, so I'm not sure if it is actually effective.
you can upgrade the AUG trigger with the 20/20 sear and the new spring set that Steyr recently released that would make the trigger much crisper and lighter. My AUG trigger is now between 5.5 to 6 lbs and zero creep.
Something to remember. The Aug was built in 1977 and far exceeded technology back then. Yes, it could include a few updates but still is one of my favorite bullpups
I'm an AUG bro and can't disagree. There are fixes for its various issues, and I get military contract requirements preclude innovation, but now we have stateside manufacturing it would be nice to see Steyr USA implementing some changes in a potential A4
I love my A3M1 to death, but I've dumped almost what I paid for the gun into it again to address a lot of these shortcomings. Better trigger (sear), suppressor gas regulator, sling points, extended mag release, etc. The model being shown off at IWA makes me hopeful, but you just can't count on Steyr for the commercial market.
Good to hear a local shout out, been shopping there for the better part of 20 years, the new owners have been doing a good job keeping prices down like the previous owners did
True, and the VHS uses AR grips which means you have a variety of grips. Colors I didn't really think of, the AUG is available in different colors too, but then you're just one rattle can away from a new color. I suspect the VHS will have more colors in the future. The stocks are almost certainly being made here for compliance reasons. I know that's the case for the X95 for example.
@@Militaryarmschannel Funny how X95 shown in the video is SBR and all spec was from the US 16" version. I found that the 13" SBR X95(only 22" OAL and 7.5lbs) has quite a bit better feeling than the 16" version(goofy square buttpad, and MA one makes it doesn't stand muzzle up). As for suppression, yes VHS wins. But X95 can use high-energy recoil spring and gasket port cover to make it pretty good. Since true X95 is 6-8" shorter than the VHS, I would say X95 wins to those who prefer a shorter rifle and more AR-like controls. And VHS wins for taller people and need a bullpup to be more precise at longer range.
@@Militaryarmschannel 💥Guys if u don't know about his channel, check it out. Please HELP OUT The HOFF(Richard Hoffman) from "BWE Firearms"...REALLY HARD times, He has Cancer & His Wife Just Died Monday..Thnx!👍🇺🇸
16:54 love the pointer 😂 TFBTV did an accuracy test on the VHS and it got sub MOA on heavier match ammo, still good groups with lighter FMJ. That’s impressive for a fighting rifle, I’m not going to try to print tiny groups all day, but that’s nice.
@@acarmory people love to hate Kel-tec, but it's a seriously fantastic rifle. If it was redesigned to be ruggedized to Milspec needs, the layout, the balance, the ejection, the controls, so brilliant, so comfy. It's lighter than most too. The s model is crazy light.
I love keltec but I dont think it fits in this segment since there is no military using them and it has some substantial flaws. These three are battle proven military grade.
Good video and nice points to look at for the rifles. I recently bought X95 and changed it a bunch. Price of any of these three is higher than what most people can or want to afford. I have not shot the X95 yet but will soon. My upgrades changed a lot of the categories. I will still be getting the VHS at some point
The one category I would add is over all compactness and rear-ward bias, as these features are the primary advantages of bullpups when it comes to cqb. The vhs2 is about 2 inches longer than the x95, with a longer length of pull. If you pin the flash hider on the x95, and add the flat buttpad, the difference in length is about 3.5, that is very significant. For a general purpose rifle I would choose the vhs2, but for a dedicated home defense/cqb rifle the x95 is superior.
Once you SBR the X95 and swap to a 13" barrel... Honorable mention to a 14.7" barrel on a AUG *if* you can find one. One nice feature with the AUG is you can have a suppressor tuned barrel, a longer 20 LMG barrel, ect. Just seconds to swap between them, and if you remember the zeros for each one pretty easy to adjust the sights and confirm/tweak zero.
@@micah66048 Yeah, if you go the SBR route the x95 is ridiculously compact. I like the Aug as well, just something about the aesthetics doesn't sit right with me.
@@mohawk3371 Only reason now days to go AUG over the others is if you buy a full auto one. But they're about $37k right now. Side note, one feature I liked about the old AUG was the mags. 42rds. So for a standard NATO loadout of 210rds that is only 4 mags on your chest and one in the rifle, vs 6x30rd for AR styles. And with the stock being the way it was, it worked okay prone. Slower reloads, but reload less often? Huh, sounds like a P90 problem 🙂
Thanks! I'm getting close to pulling the trigger for a bullpup, so I'm watching the X95 and VHS. FWIW, I've seen the VHS described as an upgraded FAMAS; I also heard that the French looked at it as a 'Bugle' replacement.
@Chris G I think the VHS will be easier to get sooner than the SA35 and other in demand guns. HS Produkt does nearly everything in house so supply issues are somewhat reduced.
Looking at the chart, the takeaway is that the VHS is a little heavy and you get what you get without many options to modify. If you're looking for a bullpup with the best bang for you buck out of the box, seems like the VHS is a no brainer.
The one category I would add is the coolness of the product :) VHS-2 is one of the best looking piece of weapon on general, not just between these three.
Worth noting 2 things in regard to the rail accessories rating in the AUG. 1 is that the A2 had a top rail that sat much further forward. 2 is that you also have additional side picatinny rail in the A3. So you've got room for optics and a light/laser setup on the side. Honestly not really sure what other attachments you could possibly need or want, since suppressors were being looked at as their own category
Thank you. I've torn it down many times in the short time I've had it to learn everything I can about it. Given its military heritage I've had quite an interest in it for years. Thanks for watching.
@@Militaryarmschannel I get the impression that the Hellion is quite precarious for field cleaning by grunts. There are quite a lot small bits n pieces to get lost in the mud ... I think an Aug will be much easier to clean , is it ?
The lack of a manual bolt hold open is a deal breaker for me. A manual bolt hold open is essential for troubleshooting malfunctions. Otherwise you might feel like you need 3 or more hands to fix a malfunction if something goes wrong. You don’t need a feature on a gun till you do. Shoot a gun long enough and you will.
Idk why you mention that when ALL of these DO HAVE manual bolt hold opens, the Hellion is a simple tab behind the mag well, AUG and X-95 have an HK like notch, plus... I dont think ive every had a malfunction i couldnt clear with 1 hand, and if i did.... it required complete dissasembly
I think if the VHS that is imported here has a chrome lined HF barrel, it would be a rifle that could not only beat the other 2 rifles but, it could easily hold it's own as a good alternative to an AR-15.
I recommend the Tavor or the AUG to this day. The Tavor is perfect for desert and hot environments and the AUG is a proven winter and ice weapon system.
@@sweetcostarica if I had to make an opinion I would say it seems like a good rifle but not for the price compared to the other two with a military history. The hellion would be a good American bullpup since accuracy seems to be the utmost priority. I would choose the Tavor over any of them because I've owned and used it extensively.
@@MyWatchIsEnded If you do not have an opinion... why did you just recommend the very reliable IWI Tavor and the unreliable Steyr AUG?? Should not you have said nothing until you have some experience with the VHS (Hellion)?? What the...?!? EDIT: Note I have owned & loved the IWI Tavor SAR version. I have only seen a Steyr AUG but it's extensive service record of high failures & breakage count it out.
In terms of durability and reliability the MDR had problems but new models seem to be better but remain unproven. The RDB however, well kel tec and too much plastic says it all right there, it just ain't a high round count gun.
@@Hunting-jr1mp Well the sub2000k track record and polymer technology would disagree with you 🙂. Remember she of the biggest advanced in firearms is polymer (Glock, Magpul, TV)
@@blacklilac1408 Glock internals r not polymer nearly to the level of kel tec. And when I am talking round counts I'm thinking in the tens of thousands, something that I gaurentee a Glock will do much better than any kel tec.
@@Hunting-jr1mp A RDB can do thousands of rounds same with a sub 2000. If anything goes wrong send it to them it's a lifetime warranty. Also when is the Glock rifle coming out?
@@fmonk That’s just crazy. I’m waiting until it come to around 1700-1800 range. No rush for me. Maybe by the time I purchase it, they might have a Gen 2 version with upgrades and fixes, wishing thinking I guess, lol.
The ATF batch disapproved seemingly all Form 1 silencers yesterday. People who did not make any indication about intentions to buy a kit or anything like that. For all the ATF knows, these are people with no material at all or just blocks of metal. The reason given was that they now find any parts intended to be turned into a silencer as a silencer, therefor you can’t Form 1 a silencer because it requires you to obtain parts to make a silencer which they recognize as already being one.
Texas just started a lawsuit with them yesterday and will take it all the way to the Supreme Court and if it's made in Texas you can buy it in Texas, I think Arkansas fixing to do the same thing with Ammo and gun manufacturers
I have been waiting for my tax stamp for a year now. The ATF is "still reviewing" my application... Only government could be this slow. I could have gotten something delivered from Nepal via ox cart and sailing ship in less time than it takes those clowns to look at some paperwork.
@@andyinva1098 I feel your pain. The 10th of this month will be 1 year since I purchased my silencer and the 25th of this month will be 1 year since they cashed my check. Lol so true
I I love bullpups, never owned one but if I where to have the money I'd invest in tge hellion, it's a sweet set up. Great video as always, and a very fair test.
What about a row for overall length: smaller being better since that's the point of a bullpup? VHS looked giant in that side by side shot, but maybe the x95 shown is SBR'd?
Please do add the desert tech mdrx to this listing! Your breakdown is one of the best I've seen and it would really help me make an educated decision when choosing between picking up one of these bullpups
Very good comparison. I'd been interested in the AUG ever since I went on a joint training exercise with some Australian Air Force folks. They carried the AUG. After seeing this comparison, though, I think I'd rather go with a Hellion or X95.
It's happening now. A few places are selling it in the low $1600 range while 6 local dealers have one or more in stock at the MSRP range. So, there's no shortage of VHS. Only 1 of them has an X95 and I don't see new ones that often anymore.
Hellion was originally meant to mean minion of hell or hell's minion which theye would call kids badly misbehaving. Its a play on the Sprinfield guns like the, "Saint" series.
How would you rate the Keltec RBD you reviewed last year, up against these guns? I know the Keltec is not being used by any military, but I'd still like a comparison.
I purchased my X-95 from Copper Custom. The transaction with Copper was the Best I had, when purchasing via online. Copper set my X-95 up in Lefty mode. What was a pleasant surprise. Was Copper sent along the Right Bolt. I wasn't charged anything additional for the set up or for the Bolt. A lefty bolt cost $100 extra. Again when I bought the X95 it was a Green righty model. Copper didn't have to send the Righty Bolt. I was impressed, that I bought my CZ Scorpion from Copper too. Their customer services is excellent. When in the market for a new firearm. I always check Copper's site. Genuinely a great purchasing experience.
It wouldn't change much, I have most of the available ones on the market. AUG, FS2000, MDR, RDB, RFB, Tavor SAR, Tavor 7 and a X95. I dont have a VHS but have one on order. Honestly the Keltec RDB is probably one of my favorites , second would be the Tavor 7 or SAR. Ive put well over 5k through my SAR and AUG and they are excellent, the others have been really reliable the keltecs actually surprised me but they arent launch models. People dont take the time to set the Gas systems on the keltecs so they have issues.
I'd prefer the Steyr, seems to be the only rifle that's outlasted all its competitors in the bullpup world. There has to be a reason for it, I know it can't be Steyr's marketing department.
It's the build quality and longevity. My STG77 was more than 30 years old when I had my military service and it was still a nice shooter despite going through two sets of conscripts a year.
Nice concise video. I do like the chart because you could take out categories that dont apply to you particular usage and get a whole different 'ideal choice' For instance i dont want conversions and bam that has an impact on the end result...
Love the “dagger of judgement” with an interesting outcome. Nuts and bolts question for the MAC crew. What is the process when a new gun comes in for review? Is it everyone tears it down than puts it back together, then shoot? Are there specific folks for specific tasks? Love the channel, keep up the good work!!
20:10 - that cross locking piece was indeed sharp but after a few minutes of careful filing and scraping, ALL sharp edges were GONE! The AUG is full of sharp edges due to the molding process and design, but I'm sure we can all look beyond that, can't we? However the #1 on the 'cool map' HAS to be the Steyr AUG!
I want the Helghast StA-52 so much now. Those point issues will only go down over time as more aftermarket support comes to the gun. Now all I need is a VHS-3 with the StA-52 style recessed cylindrical mag and all my fantasies will come to life.
Hey, Tim. Unrelated, but my rough understanding is that the Foxtrot Mike FM-15 is essentially the DI version of the BRN-180. I'd love to see two very similar rifles compared. Ex. 16" 5.56, etc.
I will talk about the FM-15 here soon. I do have one. It's really a copy of a Rock River Arms rifle, which I also have - the LAR-PDS rifle. The LAR PDS has been out of production for some time now though: www.rockriverarms.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=category.display&category_ID=123
@@Militaryarmschannel PDS is best "what could have been" in the gun world today. I drilled and pinned mine, new trigger, ALG, new stock. So close, just an evolutionary dead end.
So what bullpup is the best suppressor host? I own a tavor, ordered a mdrx and owned an aug in the 90s been looking at the x95 and hellion for suppressing because the tavor is too overgassed. I'm in a wheelchair part time and hunt from one (Wounded in Afghanistan) I prefer a bullpup and own 9 suppressors. I bought both of my daughters a G22 bullpup and they love them now they want to move up, so I'm buying 3 new bullpups of the one that's best for suppressor use.
I really hope that Springfield (or someone) makes a grip that emulates the look of the Croatian military version. Same wish for a G36 magazine well adapter. I am a sucker for authenticity!
MAC as always I love watching your entire channel and Semper Fi my devil dog brother!! Thanks for all your knowledge, extensive insights, and the excellent honest reviews.
more recent versions of the 5.56 x95 also have adjustable gas (borrowed over from their 300blk format). While its not as accessible and still long stroke so therefore not as clean running as the short stroke VHS so probs still a strong #2 for suppression, adjustable gas is now default on newer x95s in 5.56 and 300blk [9mm para is direct blowback so no gas adjustment]
I don’t know if it’s because I’m already familiar with the AR 15, but this seems waaaaay more complicated. Cool little gun though- I’m definitely bull pup curious- 😁
I could have puy the Tavor 7, RDB, RFB, MDR, MDRX, etc. in the video but it would have been 2 hours long. For this video we kept it to the military 5.56 bullpups available in the US. Perhaps a comparison to commercial products like the RDB and T7 will come in the future. Thanks for watching.
@@Militaryarmschannel You did a fantastic job as always with comparison and the field stripping. I have to echo Ephram though, I would love to see a MDRX comparison in the future.
I’m here six months later to remind people that the ATF is currently enforcing laws against stabilizer brace rifles meaning that Bullpup rifles are the shortest weapons you can legally own. Of course that’s going to change in the near future when the NFA is struck down and the ATF does abolished but until then the best way to avoid violations is the own a bull pup from this list.
The way i found easiest to use the fire selector during service was to grip it from both sides. Release the fingers from the grip but do not remove the web of your hand from the pistol grip and reach up with both the thumb on one side and the trigger finger on the other and manipulate the fire selector that way. With a bit of practice, it can be done quickly and get back to the trigger, however, most important for us was to not accidentally place the fireselector all the way down into full-auto. I remember the range officer making a point of that when he saw me flip it from safe to semi this way, without checking. I also did not like the full auto mode on my service rifle. It has a progressive trigger, so the semiauto mode simply blocks the trigger from being pulled all the way. The full auto trigger pull is quite long and mushy, i much preferred rapid semiauto shots rather than full auto.
You just reminded me about the X95 conversion kits. I did a quick search for the .300 Blackout kit and they are currently out of stock everywhere. I'd love one for my X95.
For me it would be the X95 out the choices featured.Even though it's not a military rifle I'd say the MDR is something I'd really like over all featured in this video.That being said both the MDR and the X95 are guns I'm looking at for my first bullpup.
I feel as though this may be a little biased. I don't own any bullpup rifles at the moment, but I have seen an X95 have a jam during a training class that kept the student from continuing. He had to do a full field strip to get the round out. I also don't know how I would feel about my sight rail being held together with some phillips screws like on the Helion. I think my choice would be the Aug simply due to the track record.
Tim is the X95 you are comparing to the VHS and the Aug the X95 mini? It looks like it and so in some of your statements about rail and close to face operation would that come into play? The Mini is tighter than the 16" X95.
Vhs 2 originally used g36 magazines. It would be cool to have that magwell available, as i have a lot of g36 mags for my tommybuilt TG36K. I also have a beta magazine, which would be cool with the VHS i think.
That's false. The VHS-2 has proprietary mags that look and function a lot like G36 mags, but are different. There is a magwell conversion for G36 mags and AR mags for the military rifle, but I don't think SA is going to bring those over.
I think a weighting of the features is appropriate too, I mean is a sling location as important as weight. I am surprised no one mentions where the gas block location is relative to the chamber, I think it would change ballistics of the bullet.
Nobody seems to report on the measured length of pull on these things. 😂 Compared to the AR/AK platforms that the tester actually uses would be welcome too. What is interesting, is that anytime a presenter/youtuber is walking through one of these they usually seem to default to allowing the stock to ride over their shoulder or upper arm, or, grab it by the magazine.
with the OSS, are you using the suppressed setting or regular? I know my OSS acts very similar to non suppressed (not a lot of gas in face). When you do those tests, do you mind seeing if it will work with both settings(OSS can) ?
![Felix "Unfair" | [Stray Kids : SKZ-PLAYER]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/Oswujxm2Ag0/mqdefault.jpg)
If Thales exported them to the US it'd be good to see how the F90 as a modernised AUG variant competes with these newest bullpups, and how the advances such as being even lighter again, more accurate, having more rail space and accessory mounts would score.
They promised years ago then gave up. Probably Australian government anti gun pressure.
@@humanbass Pretty sure there was a shooting (I think in Australia), and they felt it was no longer "appropriate" to sell the rifle to civilians.
@@Howjadoo22 It was in New Zealand and perpetrated by an Australian. New Zealanders were able to own full autos prior to then. I remember seeing racks of surplus M16A1's brought in from Vietnam in 2015, no doubt leftover from the war there. There were also surplus Thompson's from the second world war brought in from Russia of all places (a lot were given to them under the Lend Lease Act but were never returned due to strict US import laws) along with other full autos. And there were even a few Stg44's and FG42's that were no where near how outrageously expensive they are in the US. And Chinese NHM-90 semi auto AK's for those without the automatic license for about $600 brand new. It's strange for Americans to think that surplus guns can only be bolt action rifles or M1 Garands and the like because of shitty US gun and import laws.
Fortunately there are finally extended rails for the AUG.
Maybe bug Iraqveteran8888: he had his hands on one, and may remember how it would have compared to the current crop.
Former Croatian soldiers here who was issued both the VHS-1 and VHS-2, that is in fact a forward assist or rather manual charging mechanism. Haven't actually ever had to use it as such, so I'm not sure if it is actually effective.
Thank you for the info!
MAC forgot to add Reliability and durability to the chart. But can MatoVuc speak to the VHS reliability in his in field experience? I am most curious.
Mato just got my VHS2 you 🇭🇷 did a dobro job! Love the product.
@@citadelchase8858 glad to hear you like it
@@Militaryarmschannel Hi MAC, curious if you had mag issues with the AUG NATO
you can upgrade the AUG trigger with the 20/20 sear and the new spring set that Steyr recently released that would make the trigger much crisper and lighter. My AUG trigger is now between 5.5 to 6 lbs and zero creep.
great introduction for disassembly 08:24 and left-hand conversion 13:14 , very helpful!
Something to remember. The Aug was built in 1977 and far exceeded technology back then. Yes, it could include a few updates but still is one of my favorite bullpups
I bought my very first firearm from Tomlinson! Turned 18, bought a police turn in 870 the next day! Smooth bore with rifled sights!
That's a cool first gun. Now I kinda want one!
Got an X95. Happy with it.
That "secondary guide rod" is actually what the cam pin hits in order to unlock.
I'm an AUG bro and can't disagree. There are fixes for its various issues, and I get military contract requirements preclude innovation, but now we have stateside manufacturing it would be nice to see Steyr USA implementing some changes in a potential A4
🤯 exactly 💯
I love my A3M1 to death, but I've dumped almost what I paid for the gun into it again to address a lot of these shortcomings. Better trigger (sear), suppressor gas regulator, sling points, extended mag release, etc. The model being shown off at IWA makes me hopeful, but you just can't count on Steyr for the commercial market.
I love the dagger plug for crs, you’re a real dude
Good to hear a local shout out, been shopping there for the better part of 20 years, the new owners have been doing a good job keeping prices down like the previous owners did
The Tavor and Aug also comes in multiple colors. The x95 also has multiple barrel lengths and grip configurations.
True, and the VHS uses AR grips which means you have a variety of grips. Colors I didn't really think of, the AUG is available in different colors too, but then you're just one rattle can away from a new color. I suspect the VHS will have more colors in the future. The stocks are almost certainly being made here for compliance reasons. I know that's the case for the X95 for example.
@Chris G OD Green and there’s an IDF marked special edition one.
@@Militaryarmschannel Funny how X95 shown in the video is SBR and all spec was from the US 16" version. I found that the 13" SBR X95(only 22" OAL and 7.5lbs) has quite a bit better feeling than the 16" version(goofy square buttpad, and MA one makes it doesn't stand muzzle up).
As for suppression, yes VHS wins. But X95 can use high-energy recoil spring and gasket port cover to make it pretty good.
Since true X95 is 6-8" shorter than the VHS, I would say X95 wins to those who prefer a shorter rifle and more AR-like controls. And VHS wins for taller people and need a bullpup to be more precise at longer range.
Well that is because they have been here longer. What a dumb argument.
@@Militaryarmschannel 💥Guys if u don't know about his channel, check it out. Please HELP OUT The HOFF(Richard Hoffman) from "BWE Firearms"...REALLY HARD times, He has Cancer & His Wife Just Died Monday..Thnx!👍🇺🇸
Thanks MAC! Your the reason I bought the IWI x95. Great gun, love it.
16:54 love the pointer 😂
TFBTV did an accuracy test on the VHS and it got sub MOA on heavier match ammo, still good groups with lighter FMJ. That’s impressive for a fighting rifle, I’m not going to try to print tiny groups all day, but that’s nice.
So far I'm loving this rifle... always had a fascination with bullpups ever since Die Hard, Lethal Weapon, (AUG) and Metal Gear Solid (Famas).
I'd love to see an expanded version of this video adding in the RFB, RDB, and the MDR
Same. The RDB is a serious contender
@@acarmory people love to hate Kel-tec, but it's a seriously fantastic rifle.
If it was redesigned to be ruggedized to Milspec needs, the layout, the balance, the ejection, the controls, so brilliant, so comfy. It's lighter than most too. The s model is crazy light.
I love keltec but I dont think it fits in this segment since there is no military using them and it has some substantial flaws. These three are battle proven military grade.
@@bozscaggzz7475 he said "an expanded version", meaning it's not just focused on battle proven bullpups.
@@ravissary79 okay.
16:20 mark begins comparison time
Thx. RUclipsrs these days like to hear them talk way too much :😀
Thanks mate.
This seems to be the most in-depth review of the gun so far, man. Nice job.
@TsunTzu nice pfp, GuP right?
Good video and nice points to look at for the rifles. I recently bought X95 and changed it a bunch. Price of any of these three is higher than what most people can or want to afford. I have not shot the X95 yet but will soon. My upgrades changed a lot of the categories. I will still be getting the VHS at some point
The one category I would add is over all compactness and rear-ward bias, as these features are the primary advantages of bullpups when it comes to cqb. The vhs2 is about 2 inches longer than the x95, with a longer length of pull. If you pin the flash hider on the x95, and add the flat buttpad, the difference in length is about 3.5, that is very significant. For a general purpose rifle I would choose the vhs2, but for a dedicated home defense/cqb rifle the x95 is superior.
Once you SBR the X95 and swap to a 13" barrel...
Honorable mention to a 14.7" barrel on a AUG *if* you can find one. One nice feature with the AUG is you can have a suppressor tuned barrel, a longer 20 LMG barrel, ect. Just seconds to swap between them, and if you remember the zeros for each one pretty easy to adjust the sights and confirm/tweak zero.
@@micah66048 Yeah, if you go the SBR route the x95 is ridiculously compact. I like the Aug as well, just something about the aesthetics doesn't sit right with me.
@@mohawk3371 Only reason now days to go AUG over the others is if you buy a full auto one. But they're about $37k right now.
Side note, one feature I liked about the old AUG was the mags. 42rds. So for a standard NATO loadout of 210rds that is only 4 mags on your chest and one in the rifle, vs 6x30rd for AR styles. And with the stock being the way it was, it worked okay prone. Slower reloads, but reload less often? Huh, sounds like a P90 problem 🙂
The Aug has replacement options for rail, triggers, safety, and even suppression. Combine that with availability of spare parts, you’re good to go.
i see allot of people talking about the mag release. i just bought mine today and the mags drop right out. no problems. ive tried several.
I would like to see the Keltec RDB scored like this.
Personally i think you cocered it all. Its a nice scoring system
Thanks! I'm getting close to pulling the trigger for a bullpup, so I'm watching the X95 and VHS. FWIW, I've seen the VHS described as an upgraded FAMAS; I also heard that the French looked at it as a 'Bugle' replacement.
Have to admit I want a Hellion!
@Chris G I think the VHS will be easier to get sooner than the SA35 and other in demand guns. HS Produkt does nearly everything in house so supply issues are somewhat reduced.
Tavor for me and most
Looking at the chart, the takeaway is that the VHS is a little heavy and you get what you get without many options to modify. If you're looking for a bullpup with the best bang for you buck out of the box, seems like the VHS is a no brainer.
The one category I would add is the coolness of the product :) VHS-2 is one of the best looking piece of weapon on general, not just between these three.
Worth noting 2 things in regard to the rail accessories rating in the AUG. 1 is that the A2 had a top rail that sat much further forward. 2 is that you also have additional side picatinny rail in the A3. So you've got room for optics and a light/laser setup on the side. Honestly not really sure what other attachments you could possibly need or want, since suppressors were being looked at as their own category
Great video! Thanks for putting this together it was very useful. I have an AUG and thinking of getting the VHS.
I can only speak to the AUG, but I've had nothing but perfect performance out of my AUG. Seriously impressive build quality.
Great comprehensive disassembly of the Hellion, I'm impressed with your proficiency for it being such a new firearm!
Thank you. I've torn it down many times in the short time I've had it to learn everything I can about it. Given its military heritage I've had quite an interest in it for years. Thanks for watching.
@@Militaryarmschannel I get the impression that the Hellion is quite precarious for field cleaning by grunts. There are quite a lot small bits n pieces to get lost in the mud ...
I think an Aug will be much easier to clean , is it ?
The lack of a manual bolt hold open is a deal breaker for me. A manual bolt hold open is essential for troubleshooting malfunctions. Otherwise you might feel like you need 3 or more hands to fix a malfunction if something goes wrong. You don’t need a feature on a gun till you do. Shoot a gun long enough and you will.
Agreed. Even the L85 has one of those.
The yardstick by which all other bullpups must be leaps and bounds ahead of 🤔😂
#NotBitterAtAll
Manual hold hopen, pull CH back and hold it there. Like an AK. AK users around the world did just fine. So will you.
Idk why you mention that when ALL of these DO HAVE manual bolt hold opens, the Hellion is a simple tab behind the mag well, AUG and X-95 have an HK like notch, plus... I dont think ive every had a malfunction i couldnt clear with 1 hand, and if i did.... it required complete dissasembly
@David Marshall Same, its too rich for my blood. Especially when i see x95s sub $1500 pretty regularly
AKs don't have a manual bolt hold open and yet magically they do just fine.
The VHS looks like a gun from kill zone holy crap.
It’s featured in Far Cry as the BP2.
YES I'm already saving up for a Hellion to buy next year when they are available and at MSRP or lower
You sure have a great camera man! Also great content you provide!
Glad you made this video. This is maybe the 2nd video on the hellion that wasn't a shill video.
I think if the VHS that is imported here has a chrome lined HF barrel, it would be a rifle that could not only beat the other 2 rifles but, it could easily hold it's own as a good alternative to an AR-15.
the barrel is hammer forged in the US version, it just isn't chrome lined.
I recommend the Tavor or the AUG to this day. The Tavor is perfect for desert and hot environments and the AUG is a proven winter and ice weapon system.
What do you think of the Hellion & why no comment on this Hellion (besides Springfield's bad character in past)??
@@sweetcostarica I don't have an opinion of the hellion because I've never even held one
@@sweetcostarica if I had to make an opinion I would say it seems like a good rifle but not for the price compared to the other two with a military history. The hellion would be a good American bullpup since accuracy seems to be the utmost priority. I would choose the Tavor over any of them because I've owned and used it extensively.
@@MyWatchIsEnded If you do not have an opinion... why did you just recommend the very reliable IWI Tavor and the unreliable Steyr AUG??
Should not you have said nothing until you have some experience with the VHS (Hellion)??
What the...?!?
EDIT: Note I have owned & loved the IWI Tavor SAR version. I have only seen a Steyr AUG but it's extensive service record of high failures & breakage count it out.
@@MyWatchIsEnded The Hellion is not American though, it's European
Great comparison... out of curiosity, how do non-military bullpups compare to these weapons? Specifically the RDB and MDR?
And K&M m17s
In terms of durability and reliability the MDR had problems but new models seem to be better but remain unproven. The RDB however, well kel tec and too much plastic says it all right there, it just ain't a high round count gun.
@@Hunting-jr1mp Well the sub2000k track record and polymer technology would disagree with you 🙂. Remember she of the biggest advanced in firearms is polymer (Glock, Magpul, TV)
@@blacklilac1408 Glock internals r not polymer nearly to the level of kel tec. And when I am talking round counts I'm thinking in the tens of thousands, something that I gaurentee a Glock will do much better than any kel tec.
@@Hunting-jr1mp A RDB can do thousands of rounds same with a sub 2000. If anything goes wrong send it to them it's a lifetime warranty. Also when is the Glock rifle coming out?
Already have the X95 and the AUG. Now, I have to buy the Hellion, but going to wait for the price to go down a bit.
Wise. I've seen them from $2200-$2700, which is ridiculous.
@@fmonk That’s just crazy. I’m waiting until it come to around 1700-1800 range. No rush for me. Maybe by the time I purchase it, they might have a Gen 2 version with upgrades and fixes, wishing thinking I guess, lol.
@Chris G No, I think it might be called “BETA”, lol.
The ATF batch disapproved seemingly all Form 1 silencers yesterday. People who did not make any indication about intentions to buy a kit or anything like that. For all the ATF knows, these are people with no material at all or just blocks of metal. The reason given was that they now find any parts intended to be turned into a silencer as a silencer, therefor you can’t Form 1 a silencer because it requires you to obtain parts to make a silencer which they recognize as already being one.
Wat
Texas just started a lawsuit with them yesterday and will take it all the way to the Supreme Court and if it's made in Texas you can buy it in Texas, I think Arkansas fixing to do the same thing with Ammo and gun manufacturers
I have been waiting for my tax stamp for a year now. The ATF is "still reviewing" my application... Only government could be this slow.
I could have gotten something delivered from Nepal via ox cart and sailing ship in less time than it takes those clowns to look at some paperwork.
@@andyinva1098 I feel your pain. The 10th of this month will be 1 year since I purchased my silencer and the 25th of this month will be 1 year since they cashed my check. Lol so true
@@andyinva1098 I’m at 346 days myself. So painful
Dammit Tim, now I want another bullpup!!!! thanks for the great review
Thanks for shouting out a great gun shop in Churubusco.
I I love bullpups, never owned one but if I where to have the money I'd invest in tge hellion, it's a sweet set up. Great video as always, and a very fair test.
What about a row for overall length: smaller being better since that's the point of a bullpup? VHS looked giant in that side by side shot, but maybe the x95 shown is SBR'd?
No the vhs is bigger then the x95
I was mistaken, the X95 is an SBR it looks like a toy! LOL I should watch these on my laptop, not my phone. 🤣
The VHS is long for a bullpup, but shorter than a 10"ar.
that x95 is 100% a SBR....
@@armisteadlucascolemanii7256 Uh...no! that x-95 shown here is the 13" carbine model, Tim has even mentioned its a registered SBR before too iirc
Please do add the desert tech mdrx to this listing! Your breakdown is one of the best I've seen and it would really help me make an educated decision when choosing between picking up one of these bullpups
Very good comparison. I'd been interested in the AUG ever since I went on a joint training exercise with some Australian Air Force folks. They carried the AUG. After seeing this comparison, though, I think I'd rather go with a Hellion or X95.
Instead of calling it the VHS-2, they should have called it the DVD.
This was a great review. Thank you.
God bless all here.
If once Hellion becomes more available and they can undercut the x95 by a few hundred dollars I think it would be a great success for Springfield.
You see any timeline on the horizon for that being a possibility?
@@brandonhallam51 not sure what's going on internally at Springfield but I would think sometime next year
It's happening now. A few places are selling it in the low $1600 range while 6 local dealers have one or more in stock at the MSRP range. So, there's no shortage of VHS. Only 1 of them has an X95 and I don't see new ones that often anymore.
Hellion was originally meant to mean minion of hell or hell's minion which theye would call kids badly misbehaving. Its a play on the Sprinfield guns like the, "Saint" series.
How would you rate the Keltec RBD you reviewed last year, up against these guns? I know the Keltec is not being used by any military, but I'd still like a comparison.
VHS - Croatian Versatile Machine-gun (in Croatian: [V]išenamjenska [H]rvatska [S]trojnica = [VHS])
I purchased my X-95 from Copper Custom. The transaction with Copper was the Best I had, when purchasing via online. Copper set my X-95 up in Lefty mode. What was a pleasant surprise. Was Copper sent along the Right Bolt. I wasn't charged anything additional for the set up or for the Bolt. A lefty bolt cost $100 extra. Again when I bought the X95 it was a Green righty model. Copper didn't have to send the Righty Bolt. I was impressed, that I bought my CZ Scorpion from Copper too. Their customer services is excellent. When in the market for a new firearm. I always check Copper's site. Genuinely a great purchasing experience.
I would love a scoring breakdown like this of all the bullpups that are out there but add a reliability test to it as well.
It wouldn't change much, I have most of the available ones on the market. AUG, FS2000, MDR, RDB, RFB, Tavor SAR, Tavor 7 and a X95. I dont have a VHS but have one on order.
Honestly the Keltec RDB is probably one of my favorites , second would be the Tavor 7 or SAR. Ive put well over 5k through my SAR and AUG and they are excellent, the others have been really reliable the keltecs actually surprised me but they arent launch models. People dont take the time to set the Gas systems on the keltecs so they have issues.
I was just thinking this yesterday. Nice timing!
I'd prefer the Steyr, seems to be the only rifle that's outlasted all its competitors in the bullpup world. There has to be a reason for it, I know it can't be Steyr's marketing department.
It's the build quality and longevity. My STG77 was more than 30 years old when I had my military service and it was still a nice shooter despite going through two sets of conscripts a year.
It’s a solid design that’s for sure. Very durable and reliable. It’s been around for many decades. It’s the golden standard for bullpups.
Austrian and German factories have best marketing and community building of ANY gun makers on Earth.
HS Produkt * do you want us to copy the g36 or the famas?
Croatia* yes!
That pin is in fact not only there to hold the eject port but is provided as a tool for disassembling bolt and cam pin
Nice concise video.
I do like the chart because you could take out categories that dont apply to you particular usage and get a whole different 'ideal choice'
For instance i dont want conversions and bam that has an impact on the end result...
Soooo after the aftermarket catches up for the hellion it’s prob the best lol. Interesting.
Love the “dagger of judgement” with an interesting outcome.
Nuts and bolts question for the MAC crew. What is the process when a new gun comes in for review? Is it everyone tears it down than puts it back together, then shoot? Are there specific folks for specific tasks?
Love the channel, keep up the good work!!
20:10 - that cross locking piece was indeed sharp but after a few minutes of careful filing and scraping, ALL sharp edges were GONE!
The AUG is full of sharp edges due to the molding process and design, but I'm sure we can all look beyond that, can't we?
However the #1 on the 'cool map' HAS to be the Steyr AUG!
Kind of looks like the KillZone rifle. From the Hellghast? I may be wrong on the name its been yrs since I played the game
The Aug has a suppressor gas plug that makes it much more liveable
22:26 x95 version for 300 BLK has adjustable gas block
The more you know.. that's one of the few things that kept me from a tavor
I want the Helghast StA-52 so much now. Those point issues will only go down over time as more aftermarket support comes to the gun. Now all I need is a VHS-3 with the StA-52 style recessed cylindrical mag and all my fantasies will come to life.
Hey, Tim. Unrelated, but my rough understanding is that the Foxtrot Mike FM-15 is essentially the DI version of the BRN-180. I'd love to see two very similar rifles compared. Ex. 16" 5.56, etc.
I love mine. Have both barrel lengths. And Foxtrot Mike was awesome with their customer service in my experience.
I will talk about the FM-15 here soon. I do have one. It's really a copy of a Rock River Arms rifle, which I also have - the LAR-PDS rifle. The LAR PDS has been out of production for some time now though: www.rockriverarms.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=category.display&category_ID=123
@@Militaryarmschannel PDS is best "what could have been" in the gun world today.
I drilled and pinned mine, new trigger, ALG, new stock. So close, just an evolutionary dead end.
@@Militaryarmschannel Much appreciated. I look forward to it.
So what bullpup is the best suppressor host? I own a tavor, ordered a mdrx and owned an aug in the 90s been looking at the x95 and hellion for suppressing because the tavor is too overgassed. I'm in a wheelchair part time and hunt from one (Wounded in Afghanistan) I prefer a bullpup and own 9 suppressors. I bought both of my daughters a G22 bullpup and they love them now they want to move up, so I'm buying 3 new bullpups of the one that's best for suppressor use.
I really hope that Springfield (or someone) makes a grip that emulates the look of the Croatian military version. Same wish for a G36 magazine well adapter. I am a sucker for authenticity!
You and me both! And the proper forearm.
I love these types of videos. Makes me want to spend money.
MAC as always I love watching your entire channel and Semper Fi my devil dog brother!! Thanks for all your knowledge, extensive insights, and the excellent honest reviews.
The only way for the AUG to score a '1' in the trigger category is if was a full auto sample. That progressive trigger is a thing of beauty!
Can't wait to get my hands on a VHS as soon as they dip down to the $1600-1700 range
I think I'll wait till they come out with the DVD
You will be able to find them at that price once they are readily available. The wholesale price is just over $1550
Exile armory in Alabama (on RUclips) had them the other day for 1700
That dagger is gorgeous.
Vhs trigger reminds me of an HK lem. Long but light take up. In a defense situation I'd take it off safe and treat it as a light double action.
Hellion is the most aesthetically pleasing.
Probably the tavor is the best modern functionality.
Nah the stock on the Hellion destroys the aesthetics
more recent versions of the 5.56 x95 also have adjustable gas (borrowed over from their 300blk format). While its not as accessible and still long stroke so therefore not as clean running as the short stroke VHS so probs still a strong #2 for suppression, adjustable gas is now default on newer x95s in 5.56 and 300blk [9mm para is direct blowback so no gas adjustment]
Great work as usual
I don’t know if it’s because I’m already familiar with the AR 15, but this seems waaaaay more complicated. Cool little gun though- I’m definitely bull pup curious- 😁
I love my x95. Absolutely blows everyone away that fires it. I still plan to buy an Aug. always wanted one. Will have one.
Hello, one thing you didn't mention is Slink Capability the X95 has QD Mounts but the VHS has more QD Mounts.
Great vid! Would like to have seen the DTA MDRX in the mix. Also, perhaps a mention that the Hellion has an extremely long LOP - 16” I believe.
I could have puy the Tavor 7, RDB, RFB, MDR, MDRX, etc. in the video but it would have been 2 hours long. For this video we kept it to the military 5.56 bullpups available in the US. Perhaps a comparison to commercial products like the RDB and T7 will come in the future. Thanks for watching.
@@Militaryarmschannel We'd love a comparison of all the bullpup battle rifles! They've been released few and far between over the years
@@Militaryarmschannel You did a fantastic job as always with comparison and the field stripping. I have to echo Ephram though, I would love to see a MDRX comparison in the future.
I’m here six months later to remind people that the ATF is currently enforcing laws against stabilizer brace rifles meaning that Bullpup rifles are the shortest weapons you can legally own. Of course that’s going to change in the near future when the NFA is struck down and the ATF does abolished but until then the best way to avoid violations is the own a bull pup from this list.
Tomlinson's in Churubusco - good shop and nice guys out there.
I really want the "tactical tuna" to relaunch with updated features. I was the return of the FS2000.
You and me both
Hell yeah!!! Been waiting for your thoughts on this!
The way i found easiest to use the fire selector during service was to grip it from both sides.
Release the fingers from the grip but do not remove the web of your hand from the pistol grip and reach up with both the thumb on one side and the trigger finger on the other and manipulate the fire selector that way.
With a bit of practice, it can be done quickly and get back to the trigger, however, most important for us was to not accidentally place the fireselector all the way down into full-auto.
I remember the range officer making a point of that when he saw me flip it from safe to semi this way, without checking.
I also did not like the full auto mode on my service rifle. It has a progressive trigger, so the semiauto mode simply blocks the trigger from being pulled all the way.
The full auto trigger pull is quite long and mushy, i much preferred rapid semiauto shots rather than full auto.
You just reminded me about the X95 conversion kits. I did a quick search for the .300 Blackout kit and they are currently out of stock everywhere. I'd love one for my X95.
For me it would be the X95 out the choices featured.Even though it's not a military rifle I'd say the MDR is something I'd really like over all featured in this video.That being said both the MDR and the X95 are guns I'm looking at for my first bullpup.
Go with the x95
@@MM8verick5 Still haven''t got either yet,but yeah that's where I'm leaning.
I feel as though this may be a little biased. I don't own any bullpup rifles at the moment, but I have seen an X95 have a jam during a training class that kept the student from continuing. He had to do a full field strip to get the round out. I also don't know how I would feel about my sight rail being held together with some phillips screws like on the Helion. I think my choice would be the Aug simply due to the track record.
If you could only go with one which would it be. I’m considering the x95 as my only 556 rifle but back and forth on that or an 11.5 AR
Great show Mac, thanks ☺️
Tim is the X95 you are comparing to the VHS and the Aug the X95 mini? It looks like it and so in some of your statements about rail and close to face operation would that come into play? The Mini is tighter than the 16" X95.
I used my SBR for the video.
Can we get a test with all the 5.56 Bullpups? Hellion, X95, AUG, RDB, MDRX Please!
Vhs 2 originally used g36 magazines. It would be cool to have that magwell available, as i have a lot of g36 mags for my tommybuilt TG36K. I also have a beta magazine, which would be cool with the VHS i think.
That's false. The VHS-2 has proprietary mags that look and function a lot like G36 mags, but are different. There is a magwell conversion for G36 mags and AR mags for the military rifle, but I don't think SA is going to bring those over.
I think a weighting of the features is appropriate too, I mean is a sling location as important as weight. I am surprised no one mentions where the gas block location is relative to the chamber, I think it would change ballistics of the bullet.
Nobody seems to report on the measured length of pull on these things. 😂
Compared to the AR/AK platforms that the tester actually uses would be welcome too.
What is interesting, is that anytime a presenter/youtuber is walking through one of these they usually seem to default to allowing the stock to ride over their shoulder or upper arm, or, grab it by the magazine.
Sick Lazer pointer
with the OSS, are you using the suppressed setting or regular? I know my OSS acts very similar to non suppressed (not a lot of gas in face). When you do those tests, do you mind seeing if it will work with both settings(OSS can)
?