The First Assault Rifle?

Published on March 13, 2017
Duration: 9:15

This video challenges the conventional definition of the first assault rifle, arguing the 1860 Henry Rifle's role and application in 19th-century conflicts align with the concept. It highlights the Henry's high capacity and rapid fire capabilities, demonstrated in battles like Allatoona Pass and the Wagon Box Fight, as crucial for battlefield superiority. The discussion contrasts its intermediate cartridge with contemporary full-power rounds and questions why the US military took so long to adopt similar concepts.

Quick Summary

The 1860 Henry Rifle is argued to be the first military-applied assault rifle due to its high capacity (16 rounds) and rapid fire, providing significant battlefield superiority. This concept aligns with modern definitions requiring intermediate cartridges and effectiveness at common combat distances.

Chapters

  1. 00:14Henry Rifle as First Assault Rifle?
  2. 00:41Defining the Assault Rifle
  3. 01:44Cartridge Comparison: .44 Henry vs. Others
  4. 02:51Battle of Allatoona Pass (1864)
  5. 04:01Wagon Box Fight (1867)
  6. 05:22Battle of the Little Bighorn (1876)
  7. 08:21Why Military Adoption Took So Long

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the 1860 Henry Rifle a candidate for the first assault rifle?

The argument is based on its role and application in battle, featuring a high capacity (16 rounds) and rapid firing capability that provided significant fire superiority, aligning with the concept of an assault rifle's battlefield effectiveness.

What are the key characteristics of an assault rifle?

An assault rifle is typically defined by its use of an intermediate cartridge, a high-capacity detachable magazine, and its effectiveness at common combat ranges, allowing for sustained, controllable fire.

How did the Henry Rifle's cartridge compare to contemporary firearms?

The .44 Henry Rimfire cartridge fired a 200-grain bullet at 1100 fps. While not as powerful as full-power rifle cartridges like the .45-70, its rapid delivery from the Henry's repeating action offered a significant tactical advantage.

What historical battles demonstrate the Henry Rifle's effectiveness?

The Battle of Allatoona Pass (1864) saw Henry rifles provide overwhelming fire superiority. The Wagon Box Fight (1867) and the Battle of the Little Bighorn (1876) also highlighted how repeating rifles allowed smaller forces to dominate larger ones.

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