POTD: Distinguished Civil War Breechloader – The Maynard Carbine

POTD: Distinguished Civil War Breechloader – The Maynard Carbine

Welcome to today's Photo of the Day! The Maynard carbine emerged as one of the Civil War’s most respected firearms, produced in two distinct models. The First Model (1858-1859) saw limited production of 5,000 units, distributed among Union forces and significantly adopted by Confederate states, with Florida purchasing 5,000 and other Southern states acquiring smaller quantities. The Second Model (1863-1865) saw expanded production of over 20,000 units, featuring a simplified design that omitted the tape primer and stock patch box. Notable for its accuracy, the Maynard employed an innovative breech-loading system using reloadable brass cartridges that could be reused up to 100 times – a crucial advantage for Confederate forces facing supply shortages. The weapon’s effectiveness was demonstrated by its use among cavalry units on both sides and particularly by Confederate sharpshooters during the Siege of Charleston. Union forces issued them to several cavalry regiments, including the 9th and 11th Indiana. The Maynard’s combination of rapid fire capability, accuracy, and reloadable cartridges made it one of the war’s most highly regarded firearms.

“The two models of Maynard carbines were easily among the best firearms available during the Civil War and were used and well regarded by both sides. 20,202 Second Models were manufactured c. 1863-65, with this example dated 1865 on the lower tang. Some were delivered late in the war and were issued and used by the 6th, 9th, and 11th Indiana Cavalry and the 10th and 11th East Tennessee Union Cavalry. Standard markings and features with “SWP” and “JM” cartouches on the left side of the wrist.”

Lot 237: Civil War U.S. Massachusetts Arms Co. Second Maynard Carbine – Exceptionally Fine Civil War Era U.S. Massachusetts Arms Co. Second Model Maynard Breech Loading Percussion Carbine. (n.d.). Rock Island Auction Company. photograph. Retrieved November 15, 2024, from https://www.rockislandauction.com/detail/83/237/civil-war-us-massachusetts-arms-co-second-maynard-carbine.

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Source: POTD: Distinguished Civil War Breechloader – The Maynard Carbine