Amoskeag Lindner Breechloading Carbine

Fitted with an unusual breechblock, some Lindner carbines were issued to the 1st Michigan cavalry.

1859 Lindner (U.S.) Breechloading Percussion Carbine (single-shot/ breech-loading/ black powder/ cartridge ammunition)

Movement toward Civil War reached an ever-increasing rate. More breechloaders, such as this example, were wanted. Designed by Edward Lindner in 1859, this carbine has a large bore with a breech that can be opened or closed by turning a locking device 180 degrees. As a single-shot percussion arm, several hundred Lindners were ordered by the United States for use by the army. In large part, however, most of the Lindner carbines that saw action were purchased by militia forces who often used them for mounted patrols and close-quarters fighting. In the early stages of the war, Lindners would make excellent short-range firearms. As the war progressed, however, they would be replaced by breechloading repeaters. These newer arms would help to determine the war's outcome.

- Dr. William L. Roberts, THE AMERICAN LIBERTY COLLECTION; #67