Transformation Muzzle Loader to Breech Loader

Milbank-Amsler Rifle 1867, Switzerland

Conception of Milbank-Amsler Breech Lock

In the year 1867, Professor Jakob Amsler-Laffon of Schaffhausen, Switzerland deve-loped a lock mechanism based on theAmerican patent by Milbank. Instead ofthe breech plug, a swivel plug was instal-led on the barrel. This swivel block has ahorizontal rotation axis at a right angle tothe barrel. The swivel block contains afiring pin without a return spring. Thehammer of the former percussion lock hasa groove in the face to match the firingpin. When firing, the hammer hits thefiring pin and ignites the rim fire cartridge.

Milbank-Amsler Breech Lock, ca. 1867, Front View

Milbank-Amsler Breech Lock, ca. 1867, Rear View

Milbank-Amsler Infantry Rifle, M1867

Cross Section of Milbank-Amsler Breech LockHammer Ignition Pin

Swivel Plug

Barrel

Lock PlateMain Spring

Tumbler

Trigger Bar

Trigger Spring

Cocking Catch

Safety Catch

Bridle

Trigger

Loading Rifle

Breech lock in release condition

Hammer secured in security catch

Open swivel plug

Open swivel plug

Insert cartridge

Insert cartridge

Insert cartridge

Insert cartridge

Close breech lock

Firing the Rifle

Fully cock the hammer

Operate trigger

Hammer strikes towards the firing pin

Hammer hits the firing pin

Impact on fulminate rim ignites cartridge

Bang !!

End