Known for its reliability and accuracy, the 3-inch ordnance rifle was fielded by the artillery branches of both armies. Crafted from hammer-welded, machined iron the ordnance rifle typically fired 8- or 9-pound shells, as well as solid shot, case, and canister. Due to the manufacturing process involved, Union-made rifles tended to perform better than Confederate models.
3-inch Ordnance Rifle
From Kennedy Hickman, About.com
Union officers with a 3-inch ordance rifle.
Library of Congress Photograph©2009 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company.
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