
Specifications
Year: 1856
Manufacturer(s): Royal Small Arms Factory / Enfield Lock - UK
Roles: Frontline Infantry/Rifleman;
Manufacturer(s): Royal Small Arms Factory / Enfield Lock - UK
Roles: Frontline Infantry/Rifleman;
Action: Percussion Lock; Single-Shot
Caliber(s): .577 Minie ball paper cartidge
Sights: Adjustable Rear; Fixed Front
Overall Length: 1,398 mm (55.04 in)
Barrel Length: 838 mm (32.99 in)
Weight (Unloaded): 8.82 lb (4.00 kg)
Caliber(s): .577 Minie ball paper cartidge
Sights: Adjustable Rear; Fixed Front
Overall Length: 1,398 mm (55.04 in)
Barrel Length: 838 mm (32.99 in)
Weight (Unloaded): 8.82 lb (4.00 kg)
Muzzle Velocity: 850 feet-per-second (259 meters-per-second)
Rate-of-Fire: 3 rounds-per-minute
Effective Range: 2,500 ft (762 m; 833 yd)
Rate-of-Fire: 3 rounds-per-minute
Effective Range: 2,500 ft (762 m; 833 yd)
Operators: Brazil; Confederate States; Japan; United Kingdom; United States
The Pattern 1856 was reduced by some six inches when compared to the earlier Pattern 1853. The barrel now measured 33 inches long. It continued use of the .577 ball as its ammunition and operated from a percussion cap action. The primary distinguishing mark of the line (beyond its obvious reduced length) was its two-banded design, these metal bands used to clasp the wooden stock to the barrel assembly and form a rigid, robust framework. A ram rod was contained under the barrel in the usual way and the action took place near the rear of the gun. The shoulder stock was integrated to the gun in traditional fashion with the grip area formed between it and the forend. Underslung slings allowed for a strap to be affixed and eased transporting of the rifle when on-the-march.
Both sides of the American Civil War (1861-1865) procured the Pattern 1856 and, of course, the British Empire fielded it in number - typically issued to its rank of sergeants and skirmish troops. Manufacture was by way of Enfield of England and Tower Armories.
Variants / Models
• Pattern 1856 - Base Series Designation; based on the model of 1853.