Daniels' Seven-Shot Smoothbore Turret Musket

Published on October 18, 2021
Duration: 10:08

This guide details the disassembly and operation of the Daniels patent turret rifle, a rare 7-shot percussion firearm. Expert Ian McCollum demonstrates the manual indexing mechanism, the under-hammer cocking system, and the importance of flash guards on the percussion nipples to prevent chain fires. The rifle was manufactured by C.B. Allen and patented in 1838.

Quick Summary

The Daniels Turret Rifle is a rare 7-shot, percussion firearm patented in 1838, featuring an under-hammer action and manual cylinder indexing. Manufactured by C.B. Allen, it incorporated flash guards on its percussion nipples to prevent chain fires, a significant safety innovation for its time.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to Turret Rifles
  2. 01:11History and Patent Details
  3. 02:13Mechanical Operation and Under-hammer
  4. 03:20Cylinder Disassembly and Safety Features
  5. 05:33Sights and Caliber Details
  6. 07:56Manufacturer Biography

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Daniels Turret Rifle?

The Daniels Turret Rifle is a rare 7-shot, percussion-fired firearm patented in 1838 by Henry and Charles Daniels. It features an under-hammer action and a manually indexed turret cylinder, distinguishing it from later self-rotating revolvers. Only about 50 were likely produced.

How does the Daniels Turret Rifle operate?

Operation involves manually cocking the under-hammer. A spring lever is then used to manually index the 7-shot turret cylinder to the next chamber. Percussion caps are used for ignition, with flash guards to prevent chain fires.

Who manufactured the Daniels Turret Rifle?

The Daniels Turret Rifle was manufactured by Cyrus B. Allen of Springfield, Massachusetts. Allen was a custom gunsmith known for producing high-end firearms, including other turret rifle designs, before his untimely death in 1841.

What are the key safety features of the Daniels Turret Rifle?

A crucial safety feature is the use of flash guards on the percussion nipples. These guards help prevent accidental ignition of adjacent chambers, mitigating the risk of dangerous chain fires common in early multi-shot percussion firearms.

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