Items related to The Muzzle-Loading Rifle Then and Now

The Muzzle-Loading Rifle Then and Now - Hardcover

Cline, Walter M

 
9781879356344: The Muzzle-Loading Rifle Then and Now

Synopsis

A historical and illustrated study of the muzzle-loading rifle, documenting its development and use, with particular attention to American handmade rifles, their makers, users, hunting, warfare, and shooting matches.

"synopsis" may belong to another edition of this title.

From the Back Cover

Front Cover: The Author with his favorite flintlock shooting rifle, "LONG TOM, " which, in the hands of Gary Cooper in the motion picture, "Sergeant York," achieved a fitting climax to a glorious career.

Excerpt. © Reprinted by permission. All rights reserved.

INTRODUCTION Inheriting the love of the long rifle and the great outdoors from ancestors who had a part in the early beginning of our country, I began many years ago to accumulate and preserve data on the handmade rifle. Being fortunate enough to know and associate with many famous gunsmiths who had learned their trade in the flintlock days, I have been able to secure much reliable information and many excellent specimens of the long rifle. I have taken part in many of the old-time matches and have known intimately many noted marksmen. For many years I have hunted with the mountaineers of the Southern highlands. Brought up with a rifle in their hands just as the pioneers of old, they acquired that deadly skill that can be attained in no other way except by daily use of a weapon. Tradition has handed down to us some of the remarkable shots made in the early days of the muzzle-loading flintlock rifle. They seem like fairy tales to those who know little of the accuracy of these early rifles. But the long rifle of the pioneer was an instrument of precision and served its purpose well... In the following pages, it shall be my purpose to record facts concerning the development of the rifle, its use in War and hunting and matches, and something about the men who have used these hallowed old arms of the Southern highlands.

"About this title" may belong to another edition of this title.