Keywords

Close combat, Battle of Little Big Horn, Model 1873 Colt Revolver, Indian weapons, Cavalry weapons

Abstract

Scholars have paid much attention to the use of the Model 1873 Springfield Carbine at the Battle of the Little Big Horn, which was designed to be used in combat at relatively long distances, and the nature, reliability, accuracy and rate of fire of this weapon has been frequently examined. Yet many other weapons were involved in the battle, including those wielded at close quarters. At critical junctions in the fight, these firearms were important in the progress of the contest and contributed significantly to the final outcome of the battle. The purpose of this paper is to assess the weapons used at close quarters, to demonstrate their effectiveness, and to appraise their impact on the encounter.

Original Publication Citation

Winkler, A., “Close-Order Combat at the Battle of the Little Big Horn: The Use of the Model 1873 Colt Revolver,” Greasy Grass. 2020