Terry's Breechloading Carbine: Used by Hussars and Confederates

Published on December 5, 2019
Duration: 7:52

This video provides an in-depth look at the Terry Patent Carbine, a unique bolt-action breechloader used by British Hussars and Confederate forces during the American Civil War. Ian McCollum of Forgotten Weapons details its historical context, mechanical operation, and the reasons for its eventual obsolescence in favor of metallic cartridges. The carbine's specific features, like its obturation system and presentation engravings, are highlighted, offering valuable insights for firearm enthusiasts and historians.

Quick Summary

The Terry Patent Carbine was a bolt-action breechloader patented in 1856, used by British Hussars and Confederate forces. It featured a unique side-lever bolt action and used paper cartridges with a felt wad for obturation and bore lubrication. Marked as '30 Bore,' it was approximately .54 caliber. Its design hindered adaptation to metallic cartridges, leading to obsolescence.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction and Historical Context
  2. 01:41Mechanical Operation
  3. 03:51Markings and Caliber
  4. 04:33The Ridley Presentation Piece
  5. 06:09Production and Obsolescence

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the Terry Patent Carbine?

The Terry Patent Carbine was a bolt-action breechloading rifle patented in 1856 by William Terry. It was adopted by the British military in 1860 and saw service with the 18th Hussars, as well as use in British colonies and by the Confederacy during the American Civil War.

How did the Terry Patent Carbine work?

It operated via a side-lever bolt action. A paper cartridge with a greased felt wad was inserted into the loading window, providing an obturation seal and bore lubrication. Ignition was by percussion cap.

What caliber was the Terry Patent Carbine?

The receiver is marked 'Terry's Patent 30 Bore,' which historically translates to approximately a .54 caliber (0.539 inches).

Why did the Terry Patent Carbine become obsolete?

The carbine's design, particularly its side-loading window, made it difficult to adapt for the emerging self-contained metallic cartridges, leading to its obsolescence as this technology became dominant.

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