Introduction to the Model 1816 MusketThe Model 1816 musket was one of the most widely manufactured and utilized firearms in early American history, serving as the standard-issue infantry musket for the U.S. military for nearly three decades. Produced primarily at Springfield Armory and Harpers Ferry Armory, the Model 1816 saw extensive use from the 1820s…
The Winchester-Lee 1895: A Forgotten Straight-Pull
Introduction to the Winchester-Lee Model 1895The Winchester-Lee Model 1895, commonly known as the Lee Navy Rifle, was one of the most advanced military firearms of its era. Designed by James Paris Lee, the inventor of the detachable box magazine, and manufactured by Winchester Repeating Arms Company, this straight-pull bolt-action rifle was a significant departure from…
Sharps Rifles: History and Modern Reproductions Buyer’s Guide
The Sharps Rifle is one of the most consequential firearms in American history — and one whose modern reproductions are still actively built, hunted with, and competed with today. This guide covers both: the deep historical narrative of how the Sharps Rifle came to define a half-century of breech-loading rifle development, and a practical buyer’s…
The .32 Rimfire Cartridge: History and Variations
The .32 rimfire once armed millions of Americans for hunting and self-defense. Here is the full history of this obsolete but collectible cartridge family.
The Davide Pedersoli Company
Introduction to Davide Pedersoli & Co.Nestled in the renowned Val Trompia region of Brescia, Italy, Davide Pedersoli & Co. is a leader in historical reproduction firearms. Since its founding in 1957, the company has combined centuries-old gunsmithing traditions with precision machining techniques to craft some of the most authentic black powder and cartridge-firing reproductions available…
Edwin Wesson: Master Gunsmith in American History
Edwin Wesson: Master Gunsmith and His Lasting LegacyFew names in early American gunsmithing carry as much prestige as Edwin Wesson. Renowned for his precision craftsmanship, innovative firearm designs, and contributions to both target and hunting rifles, Edwin Wesson left an indelible mark on 19th-century firearms. Though his career was tragically cut short, his influence resonated…
Guide to Reloading .50-70 (.50-70 Government) Ammunition
Introduction If you’ve arrived at this page, you may be thinking about reloading .50-70 (.50-70 Government). Perhaps you’ve recently acquired a Springfield Trapdoor, Spencer, or perhaps a Rolling Block rifle in .50-70 Government and you may be wondering how you’re ever going to shoot that thing. A reasonable first question that should come before that…
The Colt M1902 Pistol
The M1902 Pistol: Development, History, and UseThe Colt M1902 pistol holds a important place in firearms history as one of the earliest successful semi-automatic handguns. Designed by John Moses Browning and manufactured by Colt’s Patent Firearms Manufacturing Company, the M1902 was an evolutionary step that led directly to the notable M1911. While never formally adopted…
The Colt Third Model Dragoon: A Firepower Precursor
Introduction to the Colt Third Model DragoonThe Colt Third Model Dragoon is one of the most well-known percussion revolvers of the mid-19th century. A symbol of rugged frontier firepower, it played a significant role in shaping American military and civilian handgun use during the 1850s. Designed as an improvement over its predecessors, the Third Model…
The Winchester Model 1890 and Model 90: A History
Origins and Invention of the Winchester Model 1890 and Model 90 RiflesThe Winchester Model 1890 and its successor, the Model 90, remain two of the most well-known pump-action .22 rifles ever produced. Designed by the notable John Moses Browning, these rifles set the standard for small-caliber repeaters, offering accuracy, reliability, and durability that kept them…