Despite its long-standing use, the .308 has given way to several successors in military usage, most notably the 5.56x45mm NATO cartridge. The 5.56mm is lighter, smaller, and allows soldiers to carry more ammunition. However, in civilian use, the .308 Winchester remains extremely popular. Its balance of power, accuracy, and manageable recoil continue to earn it...
The Colt Factory Fire of 1864 and Its Lasting Impact
On February 4, 1864, a devastating fire engulfed most of Colt's East Armory, leaving a lasting impact on the firearms industry and the history of manufacturing. This article provides a factual account of the Colt Factory Fire, highlighting the events leading up to the incident, the consequences it had on the company, and its significance...
How to Understand Primers
Federal primers are the softest, igniting with light hammer springs (ideal for tuned revolvers).CCI primers are harder, preferred for semi-autos and AR-15s to prevent slam fires.Winchester primers balance between sensitivity and cup strength.Pre-1950s military primers contained potassium chlorate, which left corrosive salts requiring water-based cleaning. Modern primers use lead styphnate, which is non-corrosive.Understanding the distinctions...
J. Stevens & Co.: Pioneers in American Firearms
J. Stevens Co., established in 1864, is a notable name in American arms history. The company stands out due to its significant contribution to the growth and development of firearm manufacturing in the United States. Despite several transitions over the years, the legacy of this company continues to inspire enthusiasts and historians alike.Savage Arms Official...
Winchester Repeating Arms: Innovation and Excellence
From humble beginnings to a revered icon, the Winchester Repeating Arms Company has had an undeniable impact on the history of firearms. Its models, each a testament to the spirit of innovation and excellence, have served civilians, lawmen, soldiers, and hunters across time and borders. The cartridges developed by Winchester, from the .44 Henry Rimfire...
Colt 1860 Army Revolver: History, Specs, and Legacy
The Colt 1860 Army revolver is one of the most well-known firearms of the American Civil War era, widely regarded as a masterpiece of mid-19th-century firearms engineering. Designed by Samuel Colt, this revolver combined firepower, reliability, and portability, making it a favorite among Union soldiers, lawmen, and civilians during and after the war. With its...
Legacy of the .270 Winchester
The .270 Winchester cartridge's enduring legacy is a testament to American ingenuity and the timeless quest for excellence. From its historic origins to its present-day applications, it stands as a compelling chapter in the ongoing narrative of firearms and ammunition. Its reach is not limited to North American game -- many a hunter has found...
The .45-70 Government Cartridge: An Awesome Powerhouse
The .444 Marlin was designed as a high-velocity, flatter-shooting alternative to the .45-70. The .45-70 has a larger bullet selection and more reloading versatility. The .450 Marlin is essentially a modernized .45-70 designed to prevent overpressure in lever-action rifles, but the .45-70 can be loaded to similar performance levels, making the .450 Marlin somewhat redundant....
The Remington M1867 Rolling Block Rifle
Additional Historical ContextThe evolution of firearm technology is marked by a series of innovative designs aimed at producing more efficient and effective weapons. One such influential design in the latter half of the 19th century was the Remington M1867 rifle. Though not as globally recognized as other firearms, the Remington M1867 played a crucial role...
The .30-06 Springfield Cartridge: A Powerful Enduring Legacy
The .30-06 Springfield is a venerable cartridge that has stood the test of time. From the battlegrounds of the early 20th century to the hunting fields of the 21st, its combination of power, versatility, and availability has ensured its enduring legacy. Its usage in iconic firearms, versatility in hunting various game, and enduring popularity among...