What if...the US Army adopted Lever Guns in the 1870s?

Published on April 13, 2017
Duration: 13:48

This hypothetical scenario explores the US Army adopting lever-action rifles in the 1870s instead of the single-shot Trapdoor Springfield. It posits that a squad equipped with Winchester 1866s and 1876s would have possessed significant fire superiority due to higher capacity and faster reloading. A scoped Sharps rifle would maintain long-range capability, making such a unit devastatingly effective.

Quick Summary

In the 1870s, the US Army chose the .45-70 Trapdoor Springfield over lever-action rifles due to concerns about ammunition waste. However, a hypothetical squad armed with Winchester 1876s (15+1 capacity) and a scoped Sharps rifle would have possessed significant fire superiority.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Intro: Lever Guns vs. Trapdoors
  2. 00:44Historical Choice: Trapdoor Springfield
  3. 03:01Hypothetical Squad: Leader's Rifle
  4. 04:37Standard Rifleman: Winchester 1876
  5. 09:24DMR Role: Scoped Sharps Rifle
  6. 11:33Tactical Impact & Conclusion

Frequently Asked Questions

What rifle did the US Army adopt in the 1870s instead of lever-action rifles?

In the 1870s, the US Army adopted the single-shot .45-70 Trapdoor Springfield rifle. This decision was influenced by concerns over ammunition waste and cost associated with repeating firearms.

What were the advantages of lever-action rifles like the Winchester 1876 in the 1870s?

The Winchester 1876, chambered in .45-60, offered a significant advantage with its 15+1 round capacity. This provided massive fire superiority over single-shot rifles at realistic combat distances.

How would a lever-action equipped US Army squad perform tactically?

A squad armed with lever-action rifles, utilizing modern fire-and-maneuver tactics, would have been devastating. Their high capacity and ability to reload on the move would grant them fire supremacy.

What role would a scoped Sharps rifle play in a hypothetical lever-action US Army squad?

A scoped Sharps rifle, likely in .45-70 or .45-120, would serve as the Designated Marksman's weapon. This would balance the squad's high-volume fire capability with essential precision long-range engagement.

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