Rate this book

American Rifle: A Biography (2008)

by Alexander Rose(Favorite Author)

3.87 of 5 Votes: 1

ISBN

0553805177 (ISBN13: 9780553805178)

languge

English

genre

History & Biography

publisher

Delacorte Press

review 1: As much as this is a history of the development of military small arms, it's also a history of the debate between individual and collective, on the battle field, in government procurement, and in manufacturing research. I expected a sometimes dry history of the evolution of rifle technology. Instead, Alexander Rose provides an always interesting series of stories oriented around the men who developed and used the rifle. The advent of rifling and its use on the American frontier resulted in a new class of soldier. Unlike the traditional use of masses of soldiers with muskets firing together in formation, the riflemen were more effective at longer range through well-placed individual shots. Since then, the dominant strategy has shifted back and forth between accuracy and awe... more. Proponents of the former recognize the importance of individualism, character, and economy. Proponents of the latter cite the effectiveness and sometimes necessity of overwhelming firepower, but many hold an underlying belief that it is the job of most men to be led rather than to think.[return][return]American Rifle is well-written, informative, and insightful. It's a thoughtful analysis of much more than the Kentucky rifle or the M1 Carbine.
review 2: This was an interesting history of the American Rifle from before frontier days up to and including possible future developments, as well as, the various failed attempts past and present.A lot of information was covered regarding the selection of rifles for the Army by the Ordnance Department including the personalities and agendas of the Ordnance staff and leadership. This was a bit boring but I suppose an important part of the American Rifle's development and adoption of various models and manufacturers.Otherwise, I learned a lot and enjoyed the book. There were several very good illustrations as well. less

Download links for: American Rifle: A Biography

Advertising