The weapons of Jesse JamesJesse James, the legendary American outlaw and bank robber, is a figure steeped in myth and intrigue. Throughout his criminal career in the late 19th century, James relied on an assortment of weapons that played a significant role in his notorious exploits. Among his favored firearms were the Colt Navy revolver,…
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Articles by Staff Editor on Powder & Lead. In-depth firearms content covering history, reloading, gear reviews, and shooting sports.
The Awesome Adobe Walls Rolling Block Rifle
The history of the Adobe Walls rolling block rifles is a rich chapter in the annals of American firearms development, illustrating the ingenuity and craftsmanship that characterized the late 19th century. These rifles are closely associated with a specific historic event—the Second Battle of Adobe Walls in 1874—but their story extends far beyond that moment….
Smith & Wesson vs Colt: The 1870s Revolver Rivalry
Smith & Wesson vs Colt: The Military Revolver Rivalry of the 1870sIn the early 1870s, the United States Army needed a new sidearm. The cap-and-ball revolvers that had served through the Civil War were obsolete, and the military wanted a modern cartridge revolver chambered in a heavy caliber suitable for frontier combat. What followed was…
The M-16 Rifle: Protecting the Free World
The Genesis of the M-16: The AR-15 RifleThe roots of the M-16 rifle can be traced back to the post-World War II era, which saw a radical shift in the dynamics of warfare and the technological advancements accompanying it. The predecessor of the M-16, the AR-15 rifle, was designed by Eugene Stoner, a chief engineer…
What do I need to cast bullets?
Equipment needed to cast bullets To cast bullets, you will need the following equipment and materials: It’s important to note that bullet casting involves working with molten metal, which can be dangerous if proper safety precautions are not followed. Ensure you have a good understanding of the process and take the necessary safety measures to…
The .44-40 Winchester Cartridge
.44-40 WinchesterThe .44-40 Winchester, also known as .44 Winchester, .44 WCF (Winchester Center Fire), and .44-40, is a type of ammunition that was specifically designed for the Winchester Model 1873 rifle, hence its alternative name. The “.44-40” nomenclature refers to the caliber of the bullet (.44 inches) and the weight of the black powder charge…
The Schofield Smith & Wesson Model 3: An Old West Sentinel
IntroductionOne could be excused for harking back to the times of the Old West, when guns were as much a man’s trusty companion as his horse, and few firearms represent this era better than the Schofield Smith & Wesson Model 3. This thing made a real difference, especially to those who favored fighting from up…
Springfield Armory, Inc.
Springfield Armory, Inc., not to be confused with the original U.S. Springfield Armory that operated from 1777 to 1968, is a revered name in the world of firearms. The company has produced some of the finest guns in history, consistently innovating and pushing the boundaries of firearms technology.Springfield Armory Founding and Early YearsSpringfield Armory, Inc….
Leander McNelly: Legendary Texas Ranger and His Guns
Leander H. McNellyLeander H. McNelly aka Leander Harvey McNelly (March 12, 1844 – September 4, 1877) was a Confederate officer and Texas Ranger captain, best known for leading the “Special Force” – a quasi-military branch of the Texas Rangers that operated in South Texas during 1875-76. This article delves into the life and career of…
The Jarmann M1884 Rifle: 30K Norwegians Strong
M1884 Rifle: A Glimpse into Late 19th Century Military InnovationThe Jarmann M1884 rifle, named after its creator Jacob Smith Jarmann, holds a significant position in the historical timeline of firearms development. With its unique design and functionality, it became one of the standout weapons in the late 19th century and set a standard for subsequent…