Essay on Manufacturing and use of American Revolutionary War and Napoleonic war Portable Weapons of War including Sabres, Muskets, early pistols and rifles

Military, Weaponry

First Edition

Gaspard-Hermann Cotty.{ Essay on the manufacturing of Portable Arms of war] Memoire sur la Fabrication des Armes Portatives de Guerre. Magimel: Paris, 1806. First edition. Octavo. 229 pages. In French, A detailed account of Napoleonic era and American Revolution era weapons manufacturing and use. Including saber, muskets, the muzzle-loaded long gun, manufacture and use of cold steel bayonet, the dagger-like attachment on soldiers' muskets. The book reveals in detail the procedure of making high quality sabers, including the percent of copper, lead, zinc and steel. The difference needed between infantry sabers and cavalry sabers. it discusses the size and material necessary for producing reliable bullets, it gives great detail on manufacturing of Muskets for infantry, including discussion of the thickens of the barrel, how to make more reliable muskets, and also officers arms like early pistols, used as a secondary weapon to their sword. These pistols used by cavalry officers still had to be muzzle loaded and fired with a flintlock after reloading. The book gives many details on how to manufacture a proper barrel for these early firearms. Also includes a detailed analysis of early rifles, with different caliber's, discussing many specific models manufactured from 1776 to 1806. Gives instructions on how to disassemble a rifle for proper maintenance and cleaning, and reminding readers how maintenance is important for proper functioning of weapons but also for accuracy. Includes both practical and technical advice for the manufacture and use of firearms, with tables discussing correct weight, size, caliber, etc for optimal manufacture of many weapons. Boards rubbed. Small tear to title page. Original calf boards with red morocco spine label and gilt title. Text includes 2 folded tables. Owner's name written in ink on title page. Textblock clean. Overall very good condition.

Item #18333

Price: $750.00