While the best form, &c., &c., for rifles is not yet determined, there are many points upon which the generality of persons seem more agreed, viz., reduction of bore to about 1⁄2-in. in diameter, fewer grooves, shorter barrel, and with increased spirality; at least, one may safely say that ideas seem to travel in this direction.
ON RIFLE PROJECTILES.
Projectiles used in early guns.
We have learned that out of early Artillery were fired bolts, darts, bombs, stones and (more recently) iron shot. From the harquebus and musket: arrows, darts, quarrels, sprites, iron, and lastly leaden spherical balls. Elliptical iron bullets 1729.Some assert that the idea of lengthened eliptical bullets was enunciated so far back as 1729, and that good results followed their employment, but it is doubtful whether such really did take place.
Leutman.
Leutman, in his “History of St. Petersburgh,” says that “it is very profitable to fire elliptical balls out of rifled arms, particularly when they are made to enter by force.”
Robins 1742.
Robins, in 1742, recommended the use of projectiles of an egg like form, (see [plate 20], fig. 12), they were to be fired with the heavy end in front, to keep the centre of gravity forward.
Beaufoy 1812.