"The .58 and .50 Caliber Rifles & Carbines of the Springfield Armory 1865-1872" Book by Richard A. Hosmer
The Civil War was one of the most influential wars in the history of the United States. The weapons used not only affected that war, but many to come. Hosmer, a collector of Civil War-era items, has written a detailed book of the rifles and carbines used by the North and the South in the war between the states. Included is detailed information about each weapon's history, specific markings, finished, dimensions and more. Photographs. Published in 2006. 278 pages - Softcover.
Technical Information
Publisher: North Cape Publications Date of Publication: May 15, 2006 Number of Pages: 278 - Softcover
Summary of Material (from the publisher):
In the post-Civil War years, the U.S. Army found it imperative to change from muzzle-loading
percussion rifle muskets firing paper cartridges to breech-loading rifles firing self-contained
metallic cartridges. Between 1865 and 1872 when the U.S. Model 1873 .45-70 Springfield rifle
and carbine were adopted, the Ordnance Department developed and tested twenty arms, five
rifles which were adopted by the U.S. Army and served for only one or two years, one by the
U.S. Navy, four which were issued to military cadets at Annapolis. Seven more rifles and three
carbines were subjected to intense field testing during years that saw some of the most intense
fighting in the West.
Mr. Hosmer's book provides a detailed description of each rifle and carbine, including markings,
finishes, and dimensions of all pertinent parts. Each firearm is summarized in a separate table to
make identification and comparison easier. Additional tables list all markings, finishes, bayonets
and accoutrements that were issued. The book is heavily illustrated with photos of the firearms
and their accoutrements with emphasis on details.
The social and military considerations that led to the development and adoption of these arms
are discussed. The pertinent individuals are identified and the parts they played are woven in the
context of the times.
