Model 1871 Ward-Burton bolt-action rifle

Published on December 1, 2013
Duration: 3:23

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.

Quick Summary

The Ward-Burton rifle was an early US Army experimental bolt-action firearm chambered in 50-70, manufactured for the 1871 trials. Its failure to be adopted was largely due to military commanders' unfamiliarity with bolt-action mechanisms and some early production quality issues.

Chapters

  1. 00:15Introduction to the Ward-Burton Rifle
  2. 00:20Early US Army Experimental Bolt-Action
  3. 00:27Caliber and Cartridge (50-70)
  4. 00:34Designers: Ward and Burton
  5. 00:41US Military Trials and Production Numbers
  6. 00:56Reasons for Limited Success in Trials
  7. 01:01Commander Unfamiliarity with Bolt-Actions
  8. 01:13Comparison to Exposed Hammer Designs
  9. 01:29Mechanical Analysis: Bolt Action
  10. 01:33Interrupted Thread Locking Mechanism
  11. 01:3790-Degree Bolt Throw
  12. 01:42Simple Push-and-Rotate Operation
  13. 01:49Safety Mechanism
  14. 01:56Bolt Internals: Extractor and Ejector
  15. 02:12Mechanical Problems and Quality Issues
  16. 02:24Overall Reasons for Non-Adoption
  17. 02:31US Military's Later Adoption of Bolt-Actions
  18. 02:39US Stamp on Butt Plate
  19. 02:41Field Trials and Unit Issuance
  20. 02:43Yellowstone Expedition and 13th Infantry
  21. 02:51Accidental Discharges and Safety Concerns
  22. 02:58Conclusion: Ward-Burton's Fate

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the Ward-Burton rifle and why was it developed?

The Ward-Burton was an early US Army experimental bolt-action rifle designed by Generals Ward and Burton. It was developed as part of trials to introduce newer rifle technology to the military, specifically a bolt-action mechanism.

What caliber was the Ward-Burton rifle chambered in?

The Ward-Burton rifle was chambered for the 50-70 cartridge, which was the standard issue cartridge for the US Army at the time of its development and trials.

Why did the Ward-Burton rifle fail to be adopted by the US Army?

The primary reason for its failure was the unfamiliarity and discomfort of military commanders with bolt-action mechanisms. They preferred the visible hammer status of older firearms. Additionally, some mechanical issues and parts breakage in early production contributed to its rejection.

What is the locking mechanism of the Ward-Burton rifle?

The Ward-Burton rifle utilizes an interrupted thread system for its bolt locking mechanism. This system requires a 90-degree throw of the bolt handle to engage and disengage the locking lugs.

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