Videos tagged with Early Bolt-Action History

This video examines the Ward-Burton bolt-action rifle, an early US Army experimental firearm chambered in 50-70. Approximately 1,001 rifles and several hundred carbines were manufactured at Springfield Arsenal for the 1871 trials. The rifle features an interrupted thread locking mechanism with a 90-degree throw and a simple bolt-on design. Despite its mechanical simplicity, the Ward-Burton was not adopted due to unfamiliarity with bolt-action mechanisms among military commanders and some mechanical issues with early production quality, including parts breakage. The rifle was issued to units like the 13th Infantry during the Yellowstone Expedition, where reports of accidental discharges due to unfamiliarity contributed to its lack of adoption.