This video examines Edward Lindner's innovative, yet impractical, 1857 proof-of-concept revolver. It features a unique tube-fed, striker-fired, self-priming mechanism designed for caseless .48 caliber ammunition. While demonstrating advanced concepts like automatic percussion cap feeding and modular magazine potential, the design was too complex and expensive for its time and lacked functional firing capability.
This video details the rare Merrill breechloading conversion of the 1841 Mississippi Rifle. Originally a muzzle-loader, these conversions were experimental, with only about 100 made. The Merrill system utilized a top lever and ramming mechanism for breech loading. The rarity is amplified by the destruction of the Harpers Ferry Arsenal during the Civil War.
The 1869 Werder pistol, nicknamed the 'Lightning' pistol, was a unique Bavarian military firearm developed by Johann Ludwig Werder. It featured a tilting block action with a dual-trigger system for rapid reloading and was chambered in 11x35mm. Despite its innovative design, its service life was limited after German unification and replacement by the Mauser 71.
This guide details the loading and disassembly of the Dreyse Model 1835, an early breechloading needlefire pistol. It covers the unique rotating tumbler mechanism for loading paper cartridges and the internal bolt assembly, highlighting the replaceable needle striker. Expert instruction from Ian McCollum provides a deep dive into this historical firearm's mechanics.
The Gibbs Carbine, a Civil War-era breech-loading firearm, faced significant production challenges and delays. Patented in 1856, its development was hampered by manufacturing difficulties, leading to contract renegotiations and a change in ownership. The New York Draft Riots in 1863 tragically destroyed the Phoenix Armory, halting production and resulting in a limited number of delivered carbines.
The Ferguson rifle, invented by Patrick Ferguson in 1776, was the first military breech-loading rifle. Its innovative 11-thread screw breech allowed for rapid loading, achieving 6-7 shots per minute, significantly outperforming the standard Brown Bess musket. Despite its advantages, the rifle's impact was limited after its inventor was wounded during the American Revolution, leading to the disbandment of its experimental unit.
This review details the Dreyse/Kufahl needlefire revolver, highlighting its early breech-loading mechanism where a needle pierces a paper cartridge. The video notes design flaws like fragile needles and discusses the firearm's markings, including a Prussian caliber designation and dating based on the 'von Dreyse' inscription. The double-action operation is demonstrated, revealing common issues like broken needles.
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