Maynard Tape Primers

[Texas Johnny]

I have a Model 1855 rifle musket, and recently found some Maynard Tape Primers. I purchased a tin canister which contained 10 rolls of Maynard tape primer rolls. Nine are unopened and one was opened. The opened roll fit my Model 1855 perfectly, see photo. This caused me to wonder on how were the Tape Primers originally shipped to the men in the filed. Were they in tin canisters, like I purchased, or was that for civilian consumption. Any information on this would be appreciated.

 

[johan_steele]

That is a good question. I've read several requisitions for "tape primers" or Maynard primers but never noted how they were issued.

 

[UCVRelics]

Here is an early musket from my personnel collection with the Maynard system. The Maynard primer system was a great concept and there were weapons from pistols to musket made for it, but it really didin't live up to expectations. Below is a tin from the Frankfort arsenal and as yours this is how they were issued.

 

[JOHN42768]

Finding a tin with a label intact is a real challenge

 

[UCVRelics]

Finding a tin with a label intact is a real challenge

Yes it is as they always come off.

 

[johan_steele]

Were the tins issued in an ammunition crate or separate? I would assume they would have been issued with the ammunition but I have seen several requisitions requesting primers.

4th MN had two companies that had weapons requiring Maynard tape primers. One left their Remington Maynard's in MN and we're issued M1841 as replacements when at Jefferson Barracks. Their complaint was a standard percussion cap would not work with them. D cos (iirc) received M1855 rifles and maintained them through their furlough receiving M1861 series arms upon return. There were no complaints on them that I've read of.

 

[Texas Johnny]

T

Here is an early musket from my personnel collection with the Maynard system. The Maynard primer system was a great concept and there were weapons from pistols to musket made for it, but it really didin't live up to expectations. Below is a tin from the Frankfort arsenal and as yours this is how they were issued.



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Thanks so much, that is the first label I have ever seen! Appreciate the information!

 

[captaindrew]

Welcome to the forum from South Florida and the Reenactors Forum

 

[major bill]

I learn so much on CWT.