Sharps & Hankins Navy Model Carbine

Published on February 9, 2017
Duration: 8:33

This guide details the operation of the Sharps & Hankins 1862 Navy Carbine, a unique firearm from the Civil War era. It covers the sliding barrel breech-loading mechanism, cartridge insertion, and safety features. The video, presented by Ian McCollum, highlights the carbine's historical context, production numbers, and distinctive leather barrel cover designed for naval use.

Quick Summary

The Sharps & Hankins 1862 Navy Carbine utilizes a unique sliding barrel breech-loader action. A lever releases the barrel, allowing it to slide forward for loading. It's chambered in .52 caliber for the 56-52 Spencer cartridge and features a distinctive leather barrel cover for corrosion protection, particularly important for its intended naval use.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction & Leather Cover
  2. 00:40Historical Context: Sharps & Hankins Partnership
  3. 01:42Production Numbers & Variants
  4. 02:16Caliber and Cartridge Details
  5. 02:57Mechanical Operation: Sliding Barrel
  6. 04:33Extraction and Firing Mechanism
  7. 06:26Markings and Sights
  8. 07:06Post-War History

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary action of the Sharps & Hankins 1862 Navy Carbine?

The Sharps & Hankins 1862 Navy Carbine features a unique sliding barrel breech-loader action. To load, a lever is pulled, allowing the barrel to slide forward off the receiver, exposing the breech for cartridge insertion.

What was the purpose of the leather barrel cover on the Sharps & Hankins 1862 Navy Carbine?

The factory-issued leather barrel cover on the Sharps & Hankins 1862 Navy Carbine was primarily intended to protect the barrel from corrosion, especially from salt spray encountered during naval service.

How many Sharps & Hankins 1862 Navy Carbines were produced?

Approximately 6,300 units of the Sharps & Hankins 1862 Navy Carbine were produced and sold to the U.S. Navy. Other variants, like the infantry rifle and cavalry carbine, had smaller production runs.

What caliber is the Sharps & Hankins 1862 Navy Carbine chambered for?

The Sharps & Hankins 1862 Navy Carbine is chambered in .52 caliber, specifically designed to fire the 56-52 Spencer rimfire cartridge. The designation refers to the tapered case dimensions.

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