Armstrong & Taylor Carbine - Too Little Too Late

Published on April 2, 2019
Duration: 6:07

This expert review from Forgotten Weapons details the unique operation of the Armstrong & Taylor Carbine. Ian McCollum highlights its post-Civil War design, .41 Rimfire caliber, and single-shot, pivoting breechloader action. The video emphasizes its historical context, including its failure to secure a military contract and its rarity, making it a significant find for collectors.

Quick Summary

The Armstrong & Taylor Carbine is a rare .41 Rimfire single-shot breechloader patented in 1862. It features a unique pivoting breech and mechanical extractor. Despite its innovative design, it was rejected in 1866 military trials, contributing to its extreme rarity today, with examples not even appearing in major collector's guides.

Chapters

  1. 00:06Introduction and Carbine Overview
  2. 00:41Historical Context and Military Trials
  3. 01:18Mechanical Operation
  4. 02:21Sights and Design Features
  5. 03:15Markings and Manufacturing
  6. 03:591866 Military Trial Outcome
  7. 04:57Rarity and Conclusion

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Armstrong & Taylor Carbine?

The Armstrong & Taylor Carbine is a rare, post-Civil War single-shot breechloader chambered in .41 Rimfire, patented in 1862. It was designed to secure a military contract with the Union but was ultimately rejected after trials in 1866.

How does the Armstrong & Taylor Carbine operate?

Operation involves pushing a button to open the breech, which also cocks the hammer to a safety notch. The barrel pivots open, and a mechanical extractor aids in cartridge removal. It is a single-action firearm requiring the hammer to be manually cocked before firing.

Why is the Armstrong & Taylor Carbine considered rare?

This carbine is exceptionally rare, to the extent that it is not listed in comprehensive firearms reference guides like Flayderman's. Its failure to secure a military contract and limited production contributed to its scarcity today.

What was the outcome of the 1866 military trials for carbines?

In 1866, the Armstrong & Taylor Carbine was among about 40 designs tested by the military. It was rejected, along with many others, as the military sought to adopt new breech-loading systems, eventually favoring designs that evolved into the Allen Conversion and Trapdoor Springfield.

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