M1895 Lee Navy
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The M1895 Lee Navy Rifle was a straight-pull bolt-action rifle designed by James Paris Lee and adopted by the United States Navy in 1895. Chambered in the unique 6mm Lee Navy cartridge, it was the first small-caliber, high-velocity cartridge adopted by the U.S. military, marking a significant departure from larger-caliber black powder rounds. The rifle's straight-pull action allowed for faster cycling, providing a rate of fire advantage over traditional turn-bolt rifles, making it well-suited for naval and Marine applications.
Approximately 20,000 M1895 Lee Navy rifles were produced by Winchester for the Navy and Marine Corps from 1895 to 1902. This rifle saw service during the Spanish-American War, including use in the Battle of Guantanamo Bay, and was later deployed in the Philippine-American War. While it performed well in combat, issues with the 6mm Lee Navy cartridge's barrel wear and concerns over its effectiveness in jungle combat conditions led to its gradual replacement with the Springfield M1903.
The M1895 Lee Navy gained a unique place in U.S. military history as the first small-caliber, smokeless powder rifle adopted by American forces. Its innovative straight-pull design and high-velocity cartridge garnered attention but also highlighted the challenges of adopting new technologies, particularly regarding ammunition durability and reliability. Today, it is a highly collectible rifle among enthusiasts and military historians, who appreciate its place as a precursor to modern military firearms and as a bold experiment in advancing rifle technology.
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