MECHANICS AND USEFUL AP.TS. 115 



right angle with the line of the barrel, while the breech-block 

 itself drops below the stock. 



No movement of the barrel or any other parts, except those 

 immediately connected with the breech-l)lock, is required in the 

 performance of any of its operations. These operations are per- 

 formed in the simplest manner, and without infringing upon the 

 strength and durability of the arm, which is equal, in these re- 

 s^^ects, to the best muzzle-loader. 



The simplicity' of the mechanism is such as to relieve it from 

 the possibility of being impeded by the effect of friction, rust, or 

 exposure to the influence of dust, rain, or continued service. 



The position of the breech-block, when the guard is drawn 

 down, is such as to form an inclined plane, sloping towards the 

 breech of the barrel, and the groove on its n])per surface corre- 

 sponding precisely with the bore of the gun, facilitates the entrance 

 of the cartridge, so that it slides directly into its proper position. 



The removal of the empty cartridge is effected by the action of 

 an elbow lever, which throws it out with certainty the instant the 

 guard is lowered, and this lever derives its power simply from the 

 action of the breech-block itself, and cannot become deranged, as 

 it is not dependent upon any spring, and is of such strength as to 

 prevent the possibility of breakage or derangement by any ser- 

 vice to which it can be exposed. 



The breech-block itself is of such strength, and is so firmly 

 secured in its position, as to insure its perfect safety, as has been 

 proved b}^ the severest tests. 



The gun cannot be discharged till the breech-block is in its 

 proper position, and when not loaded it cannot be injured by being 

 snapped. 



The rapidity with which it can be loaded and fired is believed 

 to be equal, if not superior, to that of any single loader, and in 

 continuous firing, to that of any repeater. 



This arm was fired at the Springfield trial of breech-loader? 

 20 times a minute, and was the only gun, out of Qo presented, 

 which, after being subjected to the fullest tests apj^lied by the 

 committee, was uninjured and in perfect condition for use. 



The hammer is at the side in the position most convenient for 

 use. 



The vreight of the carbine is but 6^ pounds, and that of the 

 infantry arm not greater than an Enfield or Springfield musket. 



In force, accuracy, and general efficiency, it is equal to any 

 other gun of similar dimensions, and the peculiar construction 

 which constitutes its claim to excellence is applicable to any form 

 of barrel or size of calibre which it may be considered advisable 

 to adopt. 



It has received marked attention and high commendation from 

 many military men in our own and various foreign countries. A 

 board of army oflicers, which was convened at Springfield a few 

 months since, by order of the secretary of war, selected this from 

 among QH guns, presented for their examination, as " undeniably 

 the best for the use of troops." 



Some of the distinguishing points of the converted arm are, tJie 



