Evans Repeating Rifle

Published on October 6, 2013
Duration: 4:06

This guide provides an overview of the Evans Repeating Rifle, detailing its unique helical magazine system, operational mechanics, and distinct model variations. It highlights the differences between the .44 Evans Short and Long cartridges and notes key identifying features like patent markings and dust covers. The information is presented analytically, drawing on expert knowledge of historical firearms.

Quick Summary

The Evans Repeating Rifle, produced from 1873-1879, is known for its unique helical magazine system located in the buttstock, offering high capacity (up to 34 rounds). It came in an Old Model and a 'New Model' with a dust cover, and utilized distinct .44 caliber cartridges: the shorter, lower-velocity round and the longer, more powerful variant.

Chapters

  1. 00:15Introduction to Evans Rifle
  2. 00:40Helical Magazine System Explained
  3. 01:25Magazine Operational Drawbacks
  4. 02:02Model Variations Overview
  5. 02:58Caliber and Ballistics Comparison
  6. 03:28Company History and Closure

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the capacity of the Evans Repeating Rifle's magazine?

The Evans Repeating Rifle featured a high-capacity helical magazine. The Old Model could hold up to 34 rounds of .44 Evans Short ammunition, while the New Model, using the .44 Evans Long cartridge, had a capacity of 28 rounds.

What were the main differences between the Evans Old Model and New Model rifles?

The 'New Model' Evans Repeating Rifle, produced in greater numbers (1600 vs 500), featured a sliding dust cover on the receiver for added protection and an improved buttstock design compared to the earlier 'Old Model'.

How did the .44 Evans Short and .44 Evans Long cartridges differ?

The .44 Evans Short cartridge was designed for higher capacity (34 rounds) with a 220-grain bullet at 850 fps. The more powerful .44 Evans Long cartridge used a heavier 280-grain bullet at a higher velocity of 1200 fps, with a slightly lower capacity (28 rounds).

Why did the Evans Repeating Rifle Company fail?

The Evans Repeating Rifle Company ultimately closed its doors around 1880 primarily due to a lack of substantial military contracts. This failure underscores the critical role of government procurement in the success of firearm manufacturers during that era.

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