Navies of the world

by Edward W. Very

Chassepot.

Le Gras (modified Chassepot).

This gun is the same in principle as the one just described, it being in reality a system of conversion from the old needle-gun used in connection with a paper cartridge, to the new one using brass cartridge-cases. The principal differences between the Mauser and the Le Gras are in the details of the trigger and in the use of a rubber gas-check.

Berdan.

The breech-block of this system is pivoted at the upper forward end, and is opened by drawing back the locking-bolt to its full extent and then throwing the breech-block up. In drawing the bolt back the firing-pin is cocked, as in the Mauser pattern, and throwing the breech-block up operates the extractor.

Berdan.

Remington.

The breech-block of this system is pivoted at its lower extremity, and is held fast by a hammer-block. Cocking the latter, the breech-block may be thrown back, working the extractor.