Few names in early American firearms history are as significant as Simeon North and John Hall. These two men—working largely independently—pioneered the technological advancements that would forever change firearm manufacturing. Simeon North, a Connecticut-based gunsmith, played a crucial role in developing the first truly interchangeable parts system for pistols, while John Hall, a gifted inventor...
The Sten Gun: Britain’s Submachine Gun of World War II and Beyond
The Second World War ignited a period of rapid technological and industrial innovation, particularly in the field of small arms development. Among the most iconic and influential weapons of this era was the Sten gun, a British submachine gun that epitomized simplicity, cost-effectiveness, and battlefield practicality. Developed as a response to a dire need for...
The Ultimate Guide to Depriming: How to Safely and Effectively Remove Spent Primers from Brass Cases
Depriming, also known as decapping, is a crucial first step in the reloading process. It involves removing the spent primer from a fired cartridge case to prepare it for resizing, cleaning, and reloading. Whether you're a beginner reloader or an experienced handloader looking for best practices, understanding the correct depriming techniques will improve efficiency, enhance...
Lebel Model 1886: The First Smokeless Powder Military Rifle and Its Lasting Legacy
The history of military firearms is marked by key innovations that redefine the battlefield, and the Lebel Model 1886 stands among the most transformative. Known officially as the Fusil Modèle 1886 M93, this French bolt-action infantry rifle was the first military rifle designed for smokeless powder, heralding a new era of warfare. Its introduction signified...