1854 Austrian Lorenz Rifle Caliber: .54 Barrel length: 37 ½" The Lorenz rifle was imported from Austria by both Union and Confederate governments during the Civil War due to the shortage of weapons. This rifle was a muzzleloader that used a percussion cap for ignition. The bullets fired by this rifle were inferior to the mine ball and the barrels were inconsistent in quality making these poorly performing weapons. Private Henry Strong of the 12th Kansas Infantry who latter was stationed at Fort Smith disliked the Lorenz due to the poor and inconsistent quality of the weapon. Strong claimed he was glad when they replaced his Austrian rifle with a British Enfield.
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Last updated: April 10, 2015