Colt Repeating Rifle

The image displays a Civil War Colt revolving rifle showcasing its long wooden stock and distinct revolving cylinder near the trigger mechanism. This firearm represents a significant advancement in weaponry of its time, combining the multi-shot capability of a revolver with the extended range of a rifle. Its metal barrel and fittings appear to have a patina, indicative of age and historical use. The craftsmanship reflects the industrial era's transition into mass-produced firearms, which played a critical role during the American Civil War. This particular model illustrates the blend of innovation and traditional design, with its distinctive cylindrical mechanism that allowed for successive firing without reloading. The rifle's presence offers a glimpse into its role on the battlefield, providing soldiers with a notable advantage in terms of firepower and reliability. Overall, the image captures the essence of 19th-century military technology through the depiction of this iconic firearm.

The image displays a Civil War Colt revolving rifle showcasing its long wooden stock and distinct revolving cylinder near the trigger mechanism. This firearm represents a significant advancement in weaponry of its time, combining the multi-shot capability of a revolver with the extended range of a rifle. Its metal barrel and fittings appear to have a patina, indicative of age and historical use. The craftsmanship reflects the industrial era's transition into mass-produced firearms, which played a critical role during the American Civil War. This particular model illustrates the blend of innovation and traditional design, with its distinctive cylindrical mechanism that allowed for successive firing without reloading. The rifle's presence offers a glimpse into its role on the battlefield, providing soldiers with a notable advantage in terms of firepower and reliability. Overall, the image captures the essence of 19th-century military technology through the depiction of this iconic firearm.

Name/Title

Colt Repeating Rifle

Entry/Object ID

2025.001.18

Description

U.S. Civil War colt model 1855 .56 cal military revolving rifle made c1861

Firearm Type

Rifle

Collection

Civil War

Lexicon

Nomenclature 4.0

Nomenclature Secondary Object Term

Rifle, Repeating

Nomenclature Primary Object Term

Rifle

Nomenclature Sub-Class

Firearms

Nomenclature Class

Armaments

Nomenclature Category

Category 05: Tools & Equipment for Science & Technology

Exhibition

Civil War

Update Date

March 9, 2026