Evans Repeating Rifle: The Evolution of the New Model
In the late 19th century, the arms industry relied heavily on the power of testimonials to drive sales. Among the most colorful endorsements for the Evans repeating rifle came from Jim Spleen of Kansas, performing under the stage name Kit Carson Jr. alongside William "Buffalo Bill" F. Cody. Spleen claimed the rifle was the safest and most complete repeating system ever devised, boasting of his ability to shoot an apple from his wife's hand or a pipe from her mouth at twenty paces.
The rifle also gained prestige through the use of Buffalo Bill and his partner, Texas Jack Omohundro. Omohundro praised the weapon's firepower, stating it "shoots like a house on fire." However, as the rifle reached the far west, users demanded more power. In response, George Evans developed a new cartridge and implemented several design improvements, leading to the perfection and production of the New Model by the summer of 1877.
Key Facts
- Production Date: The New Model was perfected and put into production by summer 1877.
- Cartridge Upgrade: Moved from a 1" case to a 1 ½" long .44 caliber cartridge case.
- Capacity Change: The larger cartridge reduced the magazine capacity to 26 rounds.
- Visual Markers: Features a larger receiver, a sliding dust cover, and a straight-cut front receiver edge.
- Notable Users: Utilized by Buffalo Bill and Texas Jack Omohundro.
Design and Technical Specifications
The New Model Evans is easily distinguished from its predecessors by its more robust receiver and the addition of a sliding dust cover over the ejection port. Unlike the scalloped front edge found on old and transition models, the New Model features a straight cut. Barrel markings remain consistent with the transition model, with the notable addition of "U.S.A."
The most significant internal change was the chambering for a 1 ½" long .44 caliber cartridge. While this provided the increased power requested by Western users, the physical size of the new rounds necessitated a reduction in the magazine's total capacity, which was capped at 26 rounds.
Model Configurations and Production
The New Model was manufactured in several distinct configurations to suit different users, ranging from hunters to military personnel.
Sporting Rifle
Designed for civilian use, these featured walnut stocks with optional engraving and checkering. They were produced with octagon barrels in lengths of 26", 28", and 30". Approximately 3,000 units were made.
Military Musket
These models featured a 30" round barrel and a full forend secured by two barrel bands. Many of these were later converted into sporting rifles. Approximately 3,000 units were produced.
Carbine
The carbine version featured a shorter 22" round barrel and a short forend held by a single barrel band. Some units included a bayonet mounting stud. Production is estimated at over 4,000 units.
"Evans Sporting Rifle" Marked Variants
Some rifles bear the specific marking "Evans Sporting Rifle." Experts believe these were assembled from various parts, primarily utilizing 30" round barrel military muskets fitted with a unique short forend attached by a screw.
| Model | Barrel Type & Length | Key Features | Est. Quantity |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sporting Rifle | Octagon (26", 28", 30") | Walnut stock, optional engraving | 3,000 |
| Military Musket | Round (30") | Full forend, 2 barrel bands | 3,000 |
| Carbine | Round (22") | Short forend, 1 barrel band | 4,000+ |
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the New Model differ visually from previous Evans models?
The New Model features a larger, more robust receiver with a straight-cut front edge (rather than scalloped) and includes a sliding dust cover over the ejection port.
What happened to the magazine capacity in the New Model?
Because the cartridge case length increased from 1" to 1 ½", the magazine capacity was reduced to 26 rounds.
Who was Kit Carson Jr. in the context of Evans rifle advertising?
Kit Carson Jr. was the stage name of Jim Spleen from Kansas, a performer who appeared with Buffalo Bill Cody and provided colorful testimonials for the rifle.
What are the characteristics of the Evans Carbine?
The carbine is characterized by a 22" round barrel, a short forend with a single barrel band, and occasionally a bayonet mounting stud.
How can you identify an "Evans Sporting Rifle" assembled from parts?
These are typically 30" round barrel military muskets that have been fitted with a specific short forend attached by a screw, which differs from the standard sporting forend.