Barton Jenks' Model 1867 Rolling Block Trials Rifle

Published on April 6, 2020
Duration: 12:24

This guide details the operation of the Barton Jenks Model 1867 Rolling Block rifle, highlighting its unique self-locking mechanism. Unlike the Remington system, the Jenks design automatically recocks the hammer upon breech opening, allowing for faster cycling. The video covers its historical context, mechanical features, and reasons for its failure in trials.

Quick Summary

The Barton Jenks Model 1867 is notable for its self-locking rolling block action, which automatically recocks the hammer upon breech opening for faster cycling. Developed by Barton H. Jenks, whose family had a history of innovation, the rifle was submitted for trials but ultimately unsuccessful, likely due to cost or reliability issues compared to competitors like Remington.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to Barton Jenks Rifles
  2. 00:35The Jenks Family Legacy
  3. 01:27Transition to Arms Manufacturing
  4. 02:32Post-War Breech-Loading Trials
  5. 03:20Model 1867 vs. Model 1870 Conversion
  6. 04:12Mechanical Design and Operation
  7. 05:17Breech Block Details
  8. 09:13Sights and Furniture
  9. 10:01Trial Outcomes and Later Life

Frequently Asked Questions

What is unique about the Barton Jenks Model 1867's action?

The Barton Jenks Model 1867 features a self-locking rolling block action. This means the hammer automatically recocks itself when the breech is opened, allowing for faster operation compared to other rolling block designs where the hammer might lock the block.

What historical context surrounds the Barton Jenks Model 1867?

The rifle was developed by Barton H. Jenks, whose family had a long history of invention. His family business transitioned from textile machinery to producing over 100,000 muskets during the Civil War before Jenks developed his breech-loading system.

Why did the Barton Jenks Model 1867 fail to gain widespread adoption?

The Jenks rifles were unsuccessful in US Federal and New York State trials. Potential reasons include higher costs, reliability concerns, or durability issues when compared to established firearms like the Remington rolling block system.

What type of ammunition was the Barton Jenks Model 1867 designed for?

The Model 1867 was originally designed to use rimfire cartridges, similar to the .56 Spencer. However, later examples indicate that modifications were made to allow for the use of centerfire ammunition.

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