The video opens as a dedicated manufacturer review focused on Grand Power, framed by the hosts’ extensive prior experience with the brand. They explain that some firearms on the table are long-time favorites while others are completely new to them. The spotlight begins with the SP9 series of pistol-caliber carbines, available in 9mm, .45 ACP, and 10mm. Grand Power is highlighted as one of the few companies offering roller-delayed blowback guns in all three calibers, with the flexibility to configure them either as roller-delayed or straight blowback. The hosts emphasize the strong aftermarket ecosystem, showcasing a heavily customized “Stryborg” build where the upper receiver is the serialized component and the lower, grip, and other parts can be swapped easily. They point out features like a CZ Shadow-style AR grip and discuss how this modularity lets users tailor ergonomics and controls. Early impressions set the tone that Grand Power platforms are highly adaptable and enthusiast-friendly.
Attention turns to the SP45 A3 and SP10 A3 variants, where the hosts praise the shooting characteristics but criticize factory magazines. The .45 ACP model is described as exceptionally soft, especially when suppressed with subsonic ammunition, while the 10mm version feels “thumpy” yet well controlled thanks to the roller-delayed system. However, repeated reliability issues with original magazines push them to recommend UMP45 magazines in 15- and 25-round capacities as a more dependable choice. They then address shortcomings in the original mag catch and bolt release, explaining how Lingle Industries upgrades transform ergonomics. AR-style bolt releases and revised ambidextrous catches improve handling on both .45/10mm and 9mm Stribog lowers. The discussion briefly shifts to Grand Power handguns imported by Global Ordnance, including striker- and hammer-fired models that accept Glock magazines and a reduced grip angle design previewed at IWA. The segment closes with an overview of Grand Power’s new GP R15 (5.56) and GP R10 (.308) short-stroke piston rifles, including Slovak military variants, noting their buffer-tube, piston-driven architecture and expected pricing at roughly half that of HK 416/417-style rifles.
The hosts transition into the new ARAQ-S, noting that these Grand Power rifles are expected to cost about half as much as HK 416/417-style platforms while still offering impressive build quality. Initial handling of the ARAQ-S leaves them pleasantly surprised, especially given the minimal setup before filming. They explain that the ARAQ-S is a 7.62x39 short-stroke piston system built on the same mechanical concept as Grand Power’s 5.56 and .308 rifles, but configured with a buffer tube and standard AK-pattern magazines instead of AR-style 7.62x39 mags. Ergonomics are largely AR-like, yet the gun uses an AK-style paddle magazine release, blending familiar controls from both systems. Imported as a pistol with an 11-inch barrel and brace, it avoids 922R rifle compliance issues while still offering a tactical configuration. The charging handle is described as thin but wide, with a gas-busting lip to redirect gases away from the shooter. On the range, they outline a structured test plan using various AK magazines—steel, Magpul Gen 2 and Gen 3, polymer waffle, US Palm, and other metal mags—both unsuppressed and suppressed, while noting that the platform lacks a native last-round bolt hold-open except when using specialty magazines like certain Zastava 7.62x39 options.
Range testing begins with a focus on how the Grand Power ARAQ-S handles different AK-pattern magazines. The hosts cycle through Magpul Gen 2 and Gen 3 PMAGs, Korean metal magazines, waffle-style polymer mags, and US Palm “banana” mags, observing feeding behavior and lockup. They mention that Zastava 7.62x39 magazines can provide last-round bolt hold-open, but emphasize that the ARAQ-S itself lacks a bolt release, requiring the shooter to manually rack the charging handle after each reload. Reload technique becomes a key point: the charging handle must be pulled fully to the rear and released decisively for reliable chambering, and the stroke feels noticeably longer than on a typical AR-15. Despite expectations for snappy recoil from an 11-inch 7.62x39 pistol, the ARAQ-S surprises them with unexpectedly soft recoil, comparable to a well-tuned 7.62x39 AR-15. Over roughly six magazines—around 180 rounds—using both steel and brass ammunition, the gun runs reliably, and they note visible brass deflection patterns that suggest consistent ejection and stable operation.
The hosts add a Huxworks Ventum 762 suppressor to the ARAQ-S and immediately notice changes in shooting characteristics. Suppressed fire significantly reduces perceived blast and heat at the shooter’s position, making the gun feel more comfortable during extended strings. However, once the Korean metal magazine is reintroduced, they begin encountering stoppages and malfunctions. They debate whether the issues stem from suppressor-induced overgassing or from the magazine itself, ultimately leaning toward the magazine as the primary culprit. During this phase, they also discover that the suppressor has started to loosen on the non-tapered barrel, prompting them to stop and retighten it. This leads to commentary on the importance of proper mounting on straight-shoulder barrels. Even as the gun heats up from sustained fire, they remark that the exposed barrel nut and handguard remain relatively cool to the touch compared to the rest of the firearm, hinting at thoughtful thermal management in the ARAQ-S design.
Troubleshooting continues as the shooters systematically diagnose the ARAQ-S feeding issues. They determine that an overloaded magazine and one particular Korean metal mag are responsible for most malfunctions, while PMAGs, US Palm mags, and other metal magazines run reliably. This reinforces their confidence in the platform itself rather than suggesting a design flaw. They also revisit the suppressor loosening problem, attributing it to the non-tapered barrel interface rather than the can, and emphasize the need for careful installation. As round count climbs, they are surprised that the barrel nut and handguard stay relatively cool even though the rest of the gun becomes noticeably toasty. The flat-face trigger draws mixed reactions: it has a mil-spec style pull with a longer, somewhat unusual travel that slows their shooting cadence, yet they appreciate the flat trigger shoe. Recoil from the 7.62x39 chambering in the 11-inch barrel remains softer than expected. Using the problematic Korean magazine, they deliberately run malfunction drills and estimate that they have put roughly 500 rounds through the gun, framing the session as a thorough shakedown rather than a torture test.
Discussion shifts to where the Grand Power ARAQ-S fits in the broader firearms market. The hosts position it as a modern tactical 7.62x39 option tailored for shooters accustomed to AR ergonomics who still want the ballistic performance of the AK cartridge. It is presented as a compelling alternative to platforms like the CMMG Mk47 or traditional AK-style rifles, especially for users who prioritize mounting lights, lasers, and other accessories on a reliable, modular chassis. They highlight design details that impressed them, including anti-roll tabs on the handguard that help lock it securely to the upper, and a notably cool-running barrel nut that resists heat buildup during extended firing. The short-stroke piston system is praised for contributing to the gun’s soft recoil and clean operation. Overall, the ARAQ-S is framed as a purpose-built solution for shooters seeking 7.62x39 performance in a configuration that feels familiar to AR users but retains AK magazine compatibility.
The hosts explain the ARAQ-S’s self-timing muzzle brake, which uses a separate locking collar to index and secure the device without shims. They admit that on the first string of fire, the collar was not tightened sufficiently, leading to minor issues, but once properly set, the brake proved simple, repeatable, and solid. This detail reinforces their impression that the rifle is thoughtfully engineered, even if it requires careful initial setup. They revisit pricing, emphasizing that the ARAQ-S and related Grand Power rifles are relatively affordable for what they offer, especially when compared to premium piston platforms like the HK 416 and 417. Positive shooting impressions dominate the wrap-up: soft recoil, reliable function with quality magazines, and good ergonomics. The hosts express interest in exploring other Grand Power models such as the GP R15 and R10 in .308. They encourage viewers to share experiences and questions in the comments, hinting that Eric from Grand Power may also engage with the community.
In the closing moments, one host playfully calls out the other over a challenge that has not yet been accepted, adding a lighthearted, competitive note to the end of the review. They thank viewers explicitly for watching and for supporting the channel, underscoring appreciation for the audience’s business and engagement. The hosts again invite opinions on Grand Power firearms, asking viewers to comment with their experiences, questions, and thoughts about the ARAQ-S and other models. Brandon delivers his final verdict, stating clearly that he loves the featured Grand Power ARAQ-S and would like to own one himself, reinforcing the positive tone of the evaluation. The video ends with a brief blessing and a note that one of them plans to continue shooting the gun off-camera, suggesting that the platform is enjoyable enough to keep running even after filming wraps.
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