Description

In this authoritative book, antique weapons experts Leonard & Guy West delve into the fascinating story of one of history’s most significant rifles. This meticulously researched volume, the first of its kind in English, chronicles the invention and development of the Dreyse Zündnadelgewehr, an innovative weapon that forever altered the future of military firearms.

Born from the genius of Johann Nikolaus Dreyse in the heart of Thuringia, this rifle was not just the first mass-produced bolt-action breech-loader; it was a pioneering feat of engineering that combined a cutting-edge cartridge system with a needle ignition mechanism. With a remarkable rate of fire that had a profound impact on warfare, the Dreyse rifle became the backbone of the Prussian army, playing a pivotal role in their victories, including the decisive Austro-German War of 1866.

Drawing on their decades of expertise in antique firearms, the authors present a treasure trove of information for dealers, collectors and historic weapons enthusiasts alike. Readers will find stunning colour illustrations of all the rifle’s intricate mechanisms, comparisons between various manufacturers, information on how to read all the markings that indicate a weapon’s provenance and an exploration of the evolution of the rifle’s ammunition and how to replicate it for live firing the weapon today.

As the authors conclude with their hands-on evaluation of the Dreyse Zündnadelgewehr in action, this book promises to be an indispensable addition to any firearms library, illuminating the legacy of a weapon that set the standard for generations to come.