Buffalo rifle

Shiloh Sharps 1874 Hartford 50 90 Rifle

Buffalo rifle refers to a type of large-caliber gun specifically designed for hunting American bison, commonly known as buffalo, in the late 19th century. These rifles were crucial for the hunting and harvesting of bison on the Great Plains of the United States, playing a significant role in the near-extinction of the bison population and profoundly impacting the culture and livelihood of Native Americans who relied on the bison.

History[edit | edit source]

The use of buffalo rifles became widespread with the expansion of European Americans westward, coinciding with the construction of the transcontinental railroad. The demand for bison hides and meat in the eastern markets led to large-scale commercial hunting. Notable models of buffalo rifles include the Sharps Rifle, Springfield Model 1873, and the Remington Rolling Block. These rifles were favored for their long-range accuracy and powerful cartridges, capable of taking down a bison with a single shot from distances up to 1000 yards.

Design and Features[edit | edit source]

Buffalo rifles were characterized by their heavy barrels, large calibers (ranging from .40 to .50 or larger), and strong actions to withstand the pressures of large cartridges. The Sharps Rifle, for example, was popular in .50-90 Sharps and .45-70 Government calibers. These rifles often featured set triggers and were equipped with adjustable sights for long-range shooting.

Impact[edit | edit source]

The efficiency of buffalo rifles contributed to the rapid decline of the bison population, from an estimated 30 million in the early 19th century to fewer than 1000 by the 1880s. This decline had a devastating effect on the Plains Native Americans, for whom the bison was a central resource, providing food, clothing, and materials for shelter and tools. The near-extinction of the bison and the consequent impact on Native American cultures is a dark chapter in American history, highlighting the destructive power of technological advancement without consideration for environmental and social consequences.

Legacy[edit | edit source]

Today, buffalo rifles are a symbol of the American frontier and are collected and used by historical re-enactors and black powder shooting enthusiasts. They remind us of the transformative power of technology and the importance of sustainable practices in hunting and wildlife management.