Introduction to chamfering Chamfering brass refers to the process of beveling the inside and/or outside edge of a casing mouth. This process is done for a few key reasons: In reloading, there are specialized chamfering tools used to perform this task. They come in a variety of styles but often look like a conical or…
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Articles by Staff Editor on Powder & Lead. In-depth firearms content covering history, reloading, gear reviews, and shooting sports.
The Model 1848 Belgian Carbine: A Forgotten Pioneer
IntroductionThe mid-19th century was a time of extraordinary innovation in firearms design, marked by the shift from flintlock to percussion ignition, the emergence of rifling in military arms, and the widespread adoption of more efficient and reliable weaponry. While many firearms of this period gained historical recognition, the so-called Model 1848 Belgian Carbine remains an…
The Starr Carbine
The Starr Carbine: A Significant Cavalry Weapon of the American Civil War For a broader look at how it fit among its contemporaries, see our overview of Civil War breech-loading carbines. The Starr Carbine remains one of the most significant firearms of the American Civil War, representing a transitional period in firearm technology where breechloading…
What are gas checks?
Gas Checks Gas checks are small metal cups or discs that are attached to the base of a cast lead bullet. It is designed to prevent the hot gases and pressures generated during the firing process from melting or deforming the base of the bullet. When reloading lead bullets for high-velocity or magnum cartridges, the…
The Mosin-Nagant: History and Legacy of a Battle Icon
The Mosin-Nagant RifleThe Mosin-Nagant is one of the most famous rifles in the world, renowned for its durability, simplicity, and historical significance. This bolt-action, magazine-fed, military rifle has had a lasting impact on the world of firearms and played a significant role in numerous conflicts throughout the 20th century.DevelopmentThe Mosin-Nagant, also known as the “Three-Line…
Henry Repeating Arms: American Made or Not Made at All
IntroductionHenry Repeating Arms: An American Firearms LegacyHenry Repeating Arms is one of the most recognized and respected names in the American firearms industry, known for its unwavering commitment to craftsmanship, quality, and reliability. Though the company was founded in 1996, its name pays tribute to Benjamin Tyler Henry, the inventor of the notable 1860 Henry…
The .25-35 Winchester: An Underrated Frontier Round
When you hear the words “Winchester cartridge,” your mind might instantaneously drift to some of the more popular and storied rounds like the .30-30 or the .45-70 Government. Yet, a certain lesser-known caliber demands attention for its historical significance and enduring utility: the .25-35 Winchester (.25-35 WCF). Despite its more modest reputation, the .25-35 Winchester…
The Vetterli Rifle: A Pioneer in Military Firearms
IntroductionThe Vetterli rifle is a milestone in the evolution of military small arms. Born during a period of intense innovation in late 19th-century Europe, this Swiss rifle not only revolutionized bolt-action mechanisms but also set the stage for many advancements that followed. Its development, attributed to the ingenuity of Swiss engineer Friedrich Vetterli and his…
The M1903 Springfield Rifle: Veteran of two World Wars
The M1903 Springfield Rifle: A Comprehensive OverviewFew firearms have left as lasting a mark on military history as the M1903 Springfield rifle. Revered for its precision, durability, and evolving design, this iconic weapon has played a pivotal role from its inception in the early 20th century through multiple conflicts around the globe. This comprehensive overview…
The .44 Caliber Lefaucheux Pinfire Pistol: History
The Enduring Legacy of the .44 Caliber Lefaucheux Pistol: A Significant 19th-Century FirearmThe .44 caliber Lefaucheux pistol is one of the most innovative revolvers in firearms history. Originating in mid-19th century France, this vintage revolver is renowned for its significant pinfire mechanism—a design that not only redefined ignition technology but also laid the foundation for…