I Have This Old Gun: Model 1841 Mississippi Rifle

Published on May 21, 2025
Duration: 4:34

This video provides a detailed look at the Model 1841 rifle, often called the Mississippi rifle. It highlights its transition from flintlock muskets to percussion priming, its role as a 'rifleman's rifle' for skirmishing, and its distinctive features like the brass patch box. The discussion covers its caliber evolution and its historical significance in the Mexican-American War.

Quick Summary

The Model 1841 rifle, often called the 'Mississippi rifle,' was a significant firearm during the US military's transition to percussion priming. Designed as a 'rifleman's rifle' for accuracy, it was initially .54 caliber and later modified to .58 caliber for the minie ball. Its name stems from its effective use by Mississippi volunteers in the Mexican-American War.

Chapters

  1. 00:06Introduction to the Model 1841
  2. 00:20US Military Arms Transition
  3. 00:46Emergence of the Model 1841 Rifle
  4. 01:14The 'Mississippi' Nickname
  5. 01:26Rifling and Accuracy
  6. 01:49Model 1841 Specifications
  7. 01:56Physical Description
  8. 02:12Replacement for 1817 Rifle
  9. 02:21Caliber Evolution (.54 to .58)
  10. 02:38Design for Infantry Tactics
  11. 03:06Role in Standard Infantry Service
  12. 03:14Battles of Monterey and Buena Vista
  13. 03:32Tethering to Mississippi Volunteers
  14. 03:41Unofficial Name Origin
  15. 03:45Production Numbers
  16. 04:03Supplanting by Model 1855
  17. 04:08Manufacturers and Contractors
  18. 04:11Robins and Lawrence, Triion
  19. 04:14Palmetto Armory
  20. 04:24Palmetto Gun Distinctions

Frequently Asked Questions

What made the Model 1841 rifle unique for its time?

The Model 1841 rifle was unique as it was designed as a 'rifleman's rifle' for skirmishing and long-range accuracy, moving away from the standard smoothbore muskets used for line-of-battle engagements. It featured a rifled bore for enhanced projectile spin and accuracy.

Why is the Model 1841 rifle commonly called the 'Mississippi' rifle?

The rifle earned the nickname 'Mississippi' due to its significant and effective use by Mississippi volunteers during the Mexican-American War. Its performance, particularly at the Battle of Buena Vista, led to this strong association.

What were the caliber specifications of the Model 1841 Mississippi Rifle?

Initially, the Model 1841 rifle was designed to fire a .54 caliber ball. Later production runs or modifications allowed it to be chambered for .58 caliber, enabling it to fire the more modern Burton minie ball that became popular in the 1850s.

Who manufactured the Model 1841 Mississippi Rifle?

The Model 1841 rifle was produced by several contractors, including Harper's Ferry, Robins and Lawrence, Triion, and Palmetto Armory. Palmetto-made versions are particularly rare and identifiable by a palmetto tree emblem on the lock plate.

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