Lever Action Assault Rifle of the Civil War

Published on December 3, 2023
Duration: 17:01

This guide details the unique loading procedure for the 1860 Henry Repeating Rifle, as demonstrated by a high-level firearms enthusiast. It covers the steps for accessing the magazine tube and inserting rounds, highlighting the historical "load on Sunday, shoot all week" concept. The instructor emphasizes the rifle's rapid-fire capability compared to muzzleloaders.

Quick Summary

The 1860 Henry Rifle is loaded by manipulating a follower tab and barrel sleeve to access the tubular magazine, allowing for rapid insertion of rounds. This lever-action firearm was a significant technological leap during the Civil War, offering unparalleled rate of fire compared to muzzleloaders, though it had some design limitations like an exposed magazine tube.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction and Skit
  2. 01:52Historical Context: STG-44 of the Civil War
  3. 03:54Comparison with Muzzleloaders
  4. 08:53Loading Procedure Demonstration
  5. 11:15Technical Pitfalls and Weaknesses
  6. 13:33Cost and Value: Historical vs. Modern
  7. 15:57Performance and Drills

Frequently Asked Questions

How is the 1860 Henry Rifle loaded?

The 1860 Henry Rifle is loaded by pulling a follower tab to expose the magazine tube, rotating a barrel sleeve to open the loading gate, dropping rounds into the tube, and then closing the gate by pushing the follower back down.

What made the 1860 Henry Rifle significant during the Civil War?

The 1860 Henry Rifle was revolutionary for its time due to its rapid-fire capability, allowing for multiple shots before needing to reload, a stark contrast to the slow process of muzzleloading firearms.

What were the drawbacks of the 1860 Henry Rifle?

The primary drawbacks of the 1860 Henry were its exposed magazine tube, which could easily collect dirt, and the absence of a bayonet lug, which was a feature desired by the military.

How much did the 1860 Henry Rifle cost historically?

Historically, the 1860 Henry Rifle had an MSRP ranging from $40 to $50 in the 1860s, which is roughly equivalent to $1,500 in today's currency. Original examples are now highly valuable collector's items.

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