Whitworth rifle

The Whitworth rifle, developed in the 1850s by British engineer Sir Joseph Whitworth, was a groundbreaking firearm known for its exceptional accuracy. It featured a uniquely rifled barrel with a finely cut, polygonal (twisted) bore, which improved the projectile's stability and increased range. Made from high-quality steel and with precise machining, it allowed soldiers to shoot accurately at much greater distances than typical rifles of the time. The Whitworth rifle was notably used during the American Civil War, where its long-range precision gave a strategic advantage. It marked a significant step in the evolution of firearm technology.