When diving into the expansive history of firearms, there are certain pieces of machinery that have left an indelible imprint. Take, for instance, the .44 caliber Lefaucheux pistol. Originating from France, this innovative armament was a game-changer in the mid-19th century, leaving a monumental influence on the firearms industry. The weapon made its mark primarily...
What is a percussion cap?
A percussion cap (also known as a cap) is a small metal or brass cap containing a tiny amount of sensitive explosive material, typically fulminate of mercury. It is designed to be placed on the nipple of a firearm's percussion lock or firing mechanism. When struck by the hammer or firing pin, the cap explodes,...
The M1 Carbine
The M1 Carbine, a lightweight, semi-automatic rifle, was developed during World War II in response to the United States Army's need for a compact firearm for crewmen who didn't primarily serve as frontline infantry. Its development story is an impressive feat of engineering and cooperation among numerous manufacturers. Before the advent of the M1 Carbine,...
The M-14 Rifle: The weapon that bridged the gap
The M-14 battle rifle has a storied history within the armaments world. A successor to the M1 Garand, the M-14's development was a significant episode in the advancement of military-grade weaponry. Its manufacture involved several prominent firms, and the rifle itself was used by various military organizations, notably the United States military. To properly understand...