Abstract
The British Army’s search for a breech-loading rifle in the 1860s saw a variety of designs tested. The Benson–Poppenburg rifle, based on a system developed by a Prussian émigré engineer, is one of the most intriguing to have been rejected. Johann von der Poppenburg developed a simple breech action which did not require a bolt handle and could be used to retrofit existing muzzle-loaded rifles. Despite testing by both the British and Dutch armed forces, the rifle was never adopted for military service. In this short note, the author examines the rifle’s development, patents, mechanical characteristics, and trials history.
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Issue: Vol. IX No. 1
Published: 31 July, 2023
DOI: https://doi.org/10.52357/armax89653
Peer-reviewed?: Yes
Keywords: British Army, breech-loading rifles, Poppenburg, Benson
Bibliographic Information
Matthew Moss, ‘The Benson–Poppenburg Breechloader’, Armax: The Journal of Contemporary Arms, Vol. IX № 1 (2023), pp. 67–76, <https://doi.org/10.52357/armax89653>.
About the Author
Matthew Moss is a British historian specialising in the development of small arms. He holds an undergraduate degree in History from the University of Liverpool and a Master’s degree (with distinction) in Military History from the University of Chester. He was awarded The Buffalo Bill Center of the West’s 2017–18 Resident Fellowship, for which he conducted research into the company’s work during the First World War. Mr. Moss has written several books on the development of small arms and light weapons. His research interests centre on the development of firearms and their tactical use, ranging from the Late Modern period through to the present day.