The Morse Carbine stands as one of the most remarkable yet overlooked innovations of the American Civil War. Developed in the crucible of national conflict, this unique breechloading firearm marked a bold leap forward in military arms—embracing the concept of metallic cartridges years before it became standard. While it never reached widespread deployment, the Morse...
Category: Cartridges
The Minié Ball: The Conical Bullet That Revolutionized Warfare
In the crucible of 19th-century warfare, one innovation changed everything—not a new kind of cannon, nor a radical new rifle, but a deceptively simple piece of lead with a hollow base. The Minié ball, named for French Army Captain Claude-Étienne Minié, turned the rifled musket from a specialist’s tool into the dominant infantry weapon of...
The .38-55 Winchester: A Historical and Technical Examination of a Legendary Cartridge
The .38-55 Winchester remains one of the most enduring and respected cartridges in American firearms history. Known for its balanced power, mild recoil, and exceptional accuracy, the .38-55 has stood the test of time. Though introduced in the 19th century, its influence persists well into the modern era, with shooters, hunters, and historical firearms enthusiasts...
A Look Back: The History and Variations of the .32 Rimfire Cartridge
The .32 rimfire cartridge family holds a unique place in firearms history. Once a popular choice for small-game hunting, target shooting, and even self-defense, these rimfire rounds are no longer commonly produced. However, for collectors and enthusiasts of historical firearms, understanding the .32 rimfire's legacy is essential. The .32 rimfire cartridge was first introduced in...