At this point in 0.5.x testing we are using a selected group of people to test for bugs we have found which are much deaper than "weapon properties". Once these issues have been cleared up and a proper working beta is ready then "public beta tests" will begin, which will involve more regular players. Until then, the testers used need to be known people who are on IRC a lot... simply so we can keep in constant communication with them about whats happening etc.
You have to understand the difference between beta testing and what is going on atm.. this is more like alpha testing as its so specific.. Things are changing all the time.. it would be almost impossible to organise this if it were public.
I can understand people's desire to see this released.. and their frustration at the fact that they know how to find bugs but arn't given the oppertunity to test.. but at this point you have to leave it in the hands of the developers and their trusted testers, so the bigger issues can be sorted out.